Scuba Diving in Maui

Good to Know

• The two headline Maui-area experiences — Molokini Crater and the Lanai Cathedrals — both require a boat; if you want easy shore diving, base yourself around South Maui (Wailea/Makena: Ulua Beach, Turtle Town/Five Caves) or West Maui (Black Rock, Mala Wharf, Olowalu) instead.
• The 2023 Lahaina wildfire took several dive boats and shop locations out of service, so book Lanai/Molokini charters well in advance, especially in peak season.
• Honolua Bay is strongly seasonal — great in calm summer conditions but frequently unsafe or turbid in winter due to north swells.
• Whale-watching-while-diving is not allowed by regulation, but expect to hear humpback song underwater on many South Maui and Molokini dives during winter/early spring.
• If you already completed the PADI eLearning and pool/confined-water sessions with a shop back home, ask about a 'referral' course on Maui — it's noticeably cheaper than the full Open Water course since you're only paying for the open-water certification dives.
• Most shops cap Open Water classes at 4-5 students, which is worth confirming if you want more one-on-one attention (or want to avoid it).
• Quoted course prices usually include gear rental, but double-check whether tanks are the local-standard 80 cubic feet or a smaller size, and whether the course is shore-based or includes boat days — this affects both cost and experience.
• Divemaster candidates should budget 3-6 weeks on-island and need a minimum of 40 logged dives just to start the course (60 to certify), plus existing Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and current first-aid/CPR certification.
• Ask whether the advertised price already includes Hawaii's general excise tax and any commercial ocean-use fee — some shops list these as separate add-ons.