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Maui Night Scuba Diving from Lahaina: Discover Octopus, Eels & Night Reef Life

Maui Night Scuba Diving from Lahaina: Discover Octopus, Eels & Night Reef Life

When Lahaina’s shoreline darkens, the reef wakes. This small-group, certified night shore dive reveals octopus, eels, lobsters and nudibranchs on a one-tank exploration guided from central Lahaina.

Lahaina, Hawaii
3 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Bring your certification card

Proof of Open Water certification is required at check-in—digital photos may not be accepted; carry the physical card if possible.

Use reef-safe sunscreen

Apply reef-safe sunscreen before arrival to protect coral and comply with local conservation practices.

Expect cooler air, warm water

Evenings on Maui cool quickly—bring a warm layer for after the dive; the water averages mid-70s°F but can feel cooler at depth.

Don’t fly within 24 hours

Flying within 24 hours after diving is prohibited—plan onward flights accordingly to avoid health risk.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Black Rock (Puʻu Kekaʻa) at Kaanapali for pre-dive snorkeling and sunset views
  • Lahaina Harbor breakwater for easy shore dives and spotting juvenile reef fish

Wildlife

  • Night-hunting octopus
  • Moray eel

Conservation Note

Small group sizes and no-touch rules limit disturbance; guests are asked to use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid trampling or touching coral.

Lahaina was once the Hawaiian Kingdom’s capital and later a whaling port; the reefs here grew on lava shelves created by West Maui volcano flows.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Blue hour/just after sunset, Twilight before full dark, Moonlit nights for ambient illumination
Key viewpoints:
  • Along reef edges where ledges meet sand
  • Near swim-throughs and crevices where octopus hide
  • Shoreline before entry for silhouette and prep shots
Subjects to capture:Octopus and nocturnal invertebrates, Eel heads or lobes peeking from crevices, Close-up reef textures illuminated by beams

What to Bring

Primary dive lightEssential

A reliable primary light lets you search crevices and observe nocturnal behavior up close.

Certification cardEssential

Proof of certification is mandatory for participation and check-in.

Thin wetsuit or rashguard

A 3mm wetsuit or long-sleeve rashguard provides thermal comfort during night exposures.

Reef-safe sunscreenEssential

Protects your skin and the reef—apply before arriving at the dive shop.

Common Questions

Do I need to be a certified diver?

Yes—evidence of Open Water or equivalent certification is required; certification card or valid digital proof must be presented.

What is the minimum age?

Minimum age is 12 years; divers under 18 must follow operator policies and may need parent/guardian approval.

How long is the actual dive underwater?

The underwater portion is typically 40–60 minutes depending on air consumption, depth and safety stops; total experience is about three hours.

Are dive lights provided?

Yes, the tour supplies required dive lights, but bringing a personal primary light can improve viewing and comfort.

Can I dive if I answered yes to medical questions?

If you answered yes to any medical waiver questions you must provide a doctor’s release before diving—contact the operator with any concerns.

What is the cancellation or refund policy?

Full refund is available if you cancel at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time; last-minute cancellations are non-refundable.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

3 hours

Location

Lahaina, Hawaii

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness needed for shore entry, surface swim and controlled buoyancy underwater.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Lahaina?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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