By Blane Perun
Dive Molokini Rate: (24 Ratings)
When you dive Molokini the expectations you should have is for
the water to be cool and clear. Expect that the center of the
crater will always be calm and protected, but beware of the currents
on the outer edge of the crater as they can become dangerous.
Morning hours are best suited for snorkeling or diving as the
trade winds can whip up in the afternoon.
You should also expect there to be
hundreds of other people snorkeling/diving at the same time.
During the summer it’s not uncommon for more than 2000 people
to dive Molokini in a single day. When you dive Molokini you
should
also expect to see all manners of sea life from cauliflower
coral to manta rays and sharks to over 250 fish species.
The water temperatures at the crate when you dive Molokini will
range from the low 70s to mid 80s. The season you visit will
affect the water temperature as will the time of day. Water temperature
is usually warmest in the months of July through October. Keep
in mind, too, the water temperatures in the crater will be cooler
than at the Maui beaches. Similarly, the deeper you dive the
cooler the water temperatures will become. Air temperatures average
from 76 degrees in the coldest month to 81 degrees in the warmest
month. Some days may be warmer or cooler, but in general the
temperatures are moderate.
All skill levels may dive Molokini from beginners
to advanced SCUBA divers. Beginner divers will enjoy the crater
basin as it has clear visibility up to 150 feet with a depth
of 35 feet. Intermediate divers should dive to the underwater
wall within the crater. It has depths that reach 70 feet. The
backside of the crater has a long, sharp wall that tapers into
caves and other lava rock formations. Only experienced SCUBA
divers should dive Molokini’s back wall. The depths are close
to 350 feet and the currents can be powerful.
There are many luxury hotels in Mauai and
the following two are quite popular. The Fairmont Kea Lani Maui
hotel is located on Polo Beach on Maui’s southwest shore. This
hotel is great for families. The Sheraton Maui Hotel is also
a luxury hotel with views of Lanai and Molokai islands.
Mid-priced hotels in Mauai include the Wailea Marriott Resort.
With a panoramic view and 22 acres, this is a good deal at an
affordable price. Another mid-priced hotel is the Kaanapali Beach
Hotel. Located on the Kaanapali beach and bordered by golf courses,
this is a relaxing and conveniently located hotel.
Tourists should expect amenities such as
room service, toiletries, pools, bellhops, laundry service, high
speed Internet, concierge services, satellite/cable, and spas.
Depending on the hotel some amenities are free while others carry
an additional fee.
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