Question 1

When is the best time to dive Maui for calm seas and clear water?

Accepted Answer

May through October brings more glassy mornings and warm water near {{ 27 | temperature }}. Winter can be great for diving too, but north swells affect West and North Maui access and boat routes to Lanai. Always plan early departures to beat trades, and check daily forecasts for swell and wind before shore entries. Whale season Dec-Apr adds magic but also more boat traffic and rules to follow.

Question 2

How do I book Molokini Crater and what rules apply?

Accepted Answer

Reserve a morning charter from Maalaea or the Kihei boat ramp. Molokini is an MLCD with no take, no feeding, and moorings only. Anchoring is prohibited. Listen to your captain about which mooring and which side is best for the day. The back wall is for advanced divers. Bring mineral sunscreen and a rashguard.

Question 3

What are the whale season guidelines for snorkelers and boaters?

Accepted Answer

From roughly November through April, keep {{ 100 | distance:yd }} from humpback whales on or in the water and {{ 300 | distance:m }} by aircraft. Do not pursue, intercept, or encircle whales. Captains often post a spotter during peak months. Enjoy songs underwater without altering your course to get closer.

Question 4

Where can beginners snorkel safely on Maui?

Accepted Answer

Choose leeward beaches with lifeguards and easy entries: Black Rock, Kahekili, and Ulua are popular. Go early for calmer seas, avoid river mouth runoff after rain, and skip exposed points during swell. For boat-only clarity, Molokini is excellent on calm mornings. Always use mineral sunscreen and avoid touching coral or turtles.

Question 5

How do I reach Lanai Cathedrals from Maui?

Accepted Answer

When conditions allow, Maui dive operators run day boats across the Auau Channel to First and Second Cathedral caverns. Alternatively, ride the passenger ferry from Maalaea to Manele and dive with a Lanai operator. Weather and swell govern availability.

Question 6

Do I need a special dive permit or marine park tag on Maui?

Accepted Answer

There is no personal dive tag. Operators handle permits. Expect a state Ocean Stewardship User Fee of USD $1 per passenger on commercial ocean activities. MLCDs like Molokini and Honolua have strict no-take rules that all visitors must follow.

Question 7

What thickness wetsuit should I pack for Maui?

Accepted Answer

Most divers are comfortable with a 3 mm full suit or a 2-3 mm shorty in summer, plus a hooded vest if you run cold. Snorkelers should bring a rashguard for sun and jelly protection. Early mornings and long repetitive dives can feel cool even in warm water, especially with wind.

Question 8

Are jellyfish a concern for swimmers and snorkelers?

Accepted Answer

Box jellyfish appear in pulses about 8-10 days after the full moon on leeward shores. Portuguese man-of-war can wash in with trades. Wear a rashguard, check local reports, and avoid swimming if signs are posted. Vinegar can help deactivate stingers; seek medical help for severe reactions.

Question 9

Do I need reservations for Haleakala sunrise and Iao Valley?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Haleakala sunrise requires a USD $1 per-vehicle reservation on Recreation.gov, separate from the park entrance fee. Iao Valley requires non-resident reservations plus entry and parking fees. Book early for peak dates.

Maui Hawaii

Warm Pacific, iconic Molokini, and whale season magic

What makes Maui special for water people

Where you will stage

Access and rules snapshot

Don't miss while you're here

Molokini early boat

Mala Wharf at dawn

Summer Honolua