Maui’s brilliant South shoreline presents a rich array of shore diving experiences and boat trips, with several “big event” dives that keep experienced divers coming back. Molokini Marine Sanctuary, visible about eight miles offshore, features a vertical backside wall that runs to 130 feet. Each of the operations has its favorite dives, including a battleship, WWII vintage plane dive, and some very cool caves.
Dive boats depart from the Kihei Boat ramp and Maalaea Harbor (past North Kihei, on the way to Lahaina). Most dives run from early morning to early afternoon, before the trades tend to kick in. Some companies specialize in certifying beginners, and others work mainly with experienced divers. There is no bad time to dive Maui, but whale season (late December to March) is particularly appealing because of the prevailing whale song soundtrack.
