Maui Shore Scuba Lesson from Lahaina — Introductory Reef Dive with Turtles
Step off the beach near Lahaina and into a guided shore dive designed for beginners. Small groups, personalized instruction, and the chance to swim with turtles make this a focused, accessible introduction to Maui’s coral reefs.
The Experience
Before You Go
Complete online training before arrival
Finish the Discover Scuba Diver eLearning and medical waiver immediately after booking so you’re cleared to dive and the operator can confirm your spot.
No flying the same day
Plan your flight schedule—flying within 18 hours of scuba is unsafe and not permitted after this activity.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a dry change of clothes
Protect reefs with mineral-based sunscreen and have clothing ready for the drive back to town.
Provide accurate height/weight/shoe size
Operators need your measurements to fit equipment correctly—especially boot size for fins—so send these when requested.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Check for shallow coral gardens near the shoreline that host colorful wrasses and juvenile fish
- •Ask the guide about tide pools near the meet-up beach for easy post-dive exploring
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtle (honu)
- •Parrotfish and colorful reef wrasses
Conservation Note
Reef health is fragile—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral, and follow guide instructions to minimize contact and anchor damage.
Lahaina was a 19th-century whaling port and later a center for sugar and pineapple; modern dive culture grew as the town shifted to tourism and ocean recreation.
Photographer's Notes
- • Shore entry to capture gearing-up moments
- • Just below the surface looking back at shore for scale
- • Near reef ledges where turtles often pause
What to Bring
Mask and snorkel
A well-fitting mask improves visibility and confidence during surface intervals and snorkeling before/after the dive.
Wetsuit (3mm–5mm)Essential
Light thermal protection keeps you comfortable in cooler mornings and while stationary underwater.
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects both your skin and the coral ecosystems; use mineral-based formulas only.
Quick-dry towel & change of clothesEssential
You’ll be wet after the shore entry—have dry clothes for comfort and safety during the return trip.
Common Questions
Do I need prior scuba certification?
No—this introductory lesson is for non-certified divers; you must complete the eLearning and medical waiver first.
How long is the dive session?
The total activity time is approximately 135 minutes, including briefing, gearing up, the in-water experience, and return.
Can I fly the same day after diving?
No—you must wait at least 18 hours after diving before flying or taking helicopter tours to avoid decompression risk.
What is the group size?
Groups are limited to a maximum of four participants for focused instruction and safety.
Are children allowed?
Minimum age is 12; children must demonstrate basic swimming skills and be comfortable in the ocean.
What should I tell the operator before arrival?
Provide full names, age, height, weight, and US men’s shoe size so equipment can be prepared and fitted correctly.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Lahaina, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Should have basic swimming ability and be comfortable in open water; moderate cardiovascular fitness recommended.
Ready to Explore Lahaina?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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