Discover the vibrant underwater world at Molokini's Backwall, a top Maui dive site perfect for experienced divers looking for a challenge. Learn what makes this site a must-visit for marine enthusiasts.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2-4 hours
Fitness Level
Divers should be physically fit with open water certification and strong swimming skills.
Wildlife
History
Molokini was formed from a volcanic eruption over 230,000 years ago, creating one of Hawaii’s most iconic submerged calderas.
Conservation
The site is protected as a Marine Life Conservation District, emphasizing sustainable diving practices that support reef health.
Island Style Diving
Discover the vibrant underwater world at Molokini's Backwall, a top Maui dive site perfect for experienced divers looking for a challenge. Learn what makes this site a must-visit for marine enthusiasts.
Island Style Diving is a Kihei-based dive operator offering guided scuba trips around Maui and nearby reefs. The company runs a range of small-group and private charters focused on Molokini Crater, Molokini Backwall, Holo Holo drift sites (including Pinnacles and Aloha Reef), the Carthaginian shipwreck and Mala Pier, and private boat charters aboard the luxurious 32' Pilikai. Trips include delicious snacks and top‑notch rental gear, and are guided by an expert crew of dive professionals.
Designed for certified divers, Molokini Backwall trips emphasize deeper walls and dramatic underwater terrain for experienced divers. The 2-Tank Molokini Crater trip operates with an intimate maximum of 12 divers for personalized attention. Holo Holo drift days follow conditions and preferences to visit sites such as Pinnacles and Aloha Reef. The Carthaginian Shipwreck and Mala Pier itinerary explores a wreck off Lahaina's coast and notes a 15-dive minimum for participation. Private boat charters on the 32' Pilikai provide two exclusive dive sites, light snacks, and a focused crew-to-guest ratio.
Island Style Diving highlights safety, local knowledge, and equipment quality. Rental gear is provided alongside briefing and surface support. The combination of experienced guides, curated dive sites around Molokini and Lahaina, and private charter options delivers a dependable choice for divers seeking Maui diving experiences. Trips commonly feature delicious snacks and top-notch rental gear to streamline logistics. The Carthaginian itinerary highlights local marine life—frogfish and green sea turtles—and even notes the possibility of sighting an Atlantis submarine. Many offerings emphasize personalized, first‑class service and clear safety briefings regularly.
Location
Kihei, Hawaii
Departures from Kihei on Maui
Small Groups
Max 12 divers
Intimate 2-tank Molokini trip
Private Charter
32' Pilikai
Luxurious private boat option
Wreck Dive
Carthaginian Site
15-dive minimum for that trip
Check availability for small-group Molokini trips, Holo Holo drift days, and private charters with Island Style Diving — top rental gear and snacks included.
Bring your camera
The clear waters and dramatic underwater landscape are perfect for photography.
Arrive early
Beat the crowds and maximize your diving time by arriving at dawn.
Monitor your air supply
Maintain awareness of your air levels during the deep dives.
Listen to your guide
Following your guide’s instructions ensures safety in complex terrain.
Wetsuit
Keeps you warm in the cooler depths of Molokini.
summer
Dive computer
Helps monitor your depth and safety stops during the dive.
Underwater camera
Capture the vibrant marine life and underwater scenery.
Fins
Provides efficient propulsion through the water.