Headed to Maui at end of July, Looking for good dive/snorkel spots.

[SEnsch]

Hey I will be in Lahaina the last week in July, I was wondering if anyone could tell me any good local spots I can do some mellow diving. Freediving, no scuba... I'm not looking for secret spots to get put on fish, I won't have a gun with me, I just want to find some cool places I can get out from shore and explore some of the nicer reefs and swim around, avoiding some of the crowded spots.

Thanks a lot. :thumps:

[North Star]

Dove there 12 years ago as a tourist - any rocky area is good - I enjoyed "The Graves" - Ask at the dive shop - they give you a brochure that lists all the good freediving/snorkeling spots along the coast. The coral is poor, but the fish are fabulous. You are in for a great time.

[headpharmd3]

here is a good link. i dove the mala wharf and it was pretty cool.
http://wetpixel.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=29289&hl=maui+dive+spots

[blaiz]

Both spots mentioned above are great for a good snorkel. Mala Warf on the North end of Front St. ranges between 20 to 40ft deep, lots of structure and fish. Not uncommon to see white tips and plenty of turtles. Keep your eye out for the occasional frogfish too.

5 graves is out at Makena Landing. More of a SCUBA spot due to the caves that you can explore but if you take a gander around the point there are some nice reefs.

Another spot that sounds cliche is blackrock. It is a very touristy spot if you stay in the corner by the shareton Hotel but if you make the swim completely around blackrock, from north Kaanapali beach around to Kaanapali it is a great swim and snorkel. Water gets to around 45' deep but is usually drinking water clear. Find out which way the current is going and make a drift. I suggest staying well within the swim buoys as many charters frequent that area.

La Perouse Bay is also a great spot. Protected so you will see lots of fish. Feel free to Pm me for any other questions.