Maui - Hawaii

Piercy Island, or Motu Kokako to give its full name, is a standout for us in the Bay of Islands, and while the Hole in the Rock gets all the glory, we always make time for Piercy’s Backside. We love the dramatic drop-off, a sheer rock face that plummets way past recreational limits. It’s perfect for those comfortable with deeper dives, maybe some techies looking to stretch their legs. You’re starting on big, rocky boulders, working your way down past ledges around 20 metres. Keep an eye out for schooling sweep and the vibrant pink maomao, they often hang in the current here. Our favourite feature is the arch at 40 metres. Finning through it, you feel the water pressure shift, and it’s a cool place to pause and watch for kingfish cruising by. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a shark in the blue. We’ve had some memorable encounters with short-beaked common dolphins zipping past too. This isn’t a coral garden, it’s a rugged, exposed site, and that’s precisely why we rate it. It’s got that raw New Zealand feel.

Location
Hawaii, United States, North America
Coordinates
20.800100, -156.303100

Marine Protected Area: Offshore Islets

Best Time to Dive in Hawaii

The warmest water temperatures in Hawaii occur in September, averaging 29.0°C. The coolest conditions are in March at 25.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 26.2°C
  • February: 25.7°C
  • March: 25.6°C
  • April: 26.0°C
  • May: 26.8°C
  • June: 27.6°C
  • July: 27.9°C
  • August: 28.5°C
  • September: 29.0°C
  • October: 28.6°C
  • November: 27.9°C
  • December: 27.2°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Hawaii

Nearest Dive Centres to Maui

Marine Life in Hawaii

Home to 23 recorded species including 17 reef fish, 3 other, 2 sharks & rays, 1 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Maui

Based on average water temperature of 27.2°C, currents 9 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 27°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical dive depths for scuba diving in Maui?
The maximum depth for diving in Maui is 16m. This makes it suitable for a wide range of divers looking to explore its vibrant reef systems.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can I expect to see while diving in Maui?
When diving in Maui, you can expect to explore beautiful reef formations. The marine life is abundant, featuring turtles, tons of reef fish, manta and eagle rays, eels galore, and various sharks. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is scuba diving in Maui, and is it suitable for beginners?
Scuba diving in Maui is rated as intermediate difficulty. While it offers incredible experiences, beginners might find some sites challenging. It's recommended that less experienced divers consult with local dive operators to choose suitable sites.
When is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Maui?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive in Maui. However, the island offers excellent diving opportunities, particularly on the north and western sides where the water is calmer. For general information on dive seasons, you can check our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive in Maui?
The provided information does not specify particular scuba diving certifications required for diving in Maui. Generally, a basic open water certification is a prerequisite for most guided dives worldwide. It's always best to check with local dive shops for their specific requirements.
What are the typical water conditions, including currents and visibility, for diving in Maui?
The water conditions in Maui are generally excellent, especially on the north and western sides of the island where the water is calmer. You can expect an impressive average visibility of 19m, providing clear views of the vibrant underwater world.