Maui is a fantastic place for scuba diving—not just because of its warm waters and abundant marine life, but because of the variety of experiences available. Whether you’re a first-timer or a certified diver craving something special, Maui offers options that balance safety, adventure, and scenery. We particularly love the 2 Tank Lanai Cathedral Scuba Dive Via Boat for its underwater caverns and wildlife, and the Beginner Scuba Dive in Lahaina for making a first-time experience accessible and fun. No matter your skill level, Maui’s underwater world will impress you with its clarity and marine animals.
If you’re trying to choose among the many options, this guide covers the best scuba adventures on Maui—beginner courses, shore dives, wildlife encounters, and eco-friendly explorations. Each offers something unique, so read on to find the one that suits your style.
1. 2 Tank Lanai Cathedral Scuba Dive Via Boat for Certified Divers
At number 1, this 2 Tank Lanai Cathedral Scuba Dive is a top pick for certified divers seeking a memorable underwater adventure. The trip takes you to Lanai, just a short boat ride from Maui, to explore the famous “cathedral” with its caverns, arches, and lava formations. The dive reaches depths of up to 85 feet, revealing a variety of marine life like dolphins and whales, especially during morning outings when wildlife activity peaks. The small group size means more personalized attention, and a delicious lunch is included between dives. This tour boasts a perfect 5.0 rating from nearly 500 reviews, with divers praising the professionalism and safety consciousness of the crew. It’s ideal for experienced divers who want a well-organized, wildlife-rich experience.
Bottom Line: For divers who want a scenic boat ride combined with spectacular underwater formations and wildlife, this is hard to beat.
2. Beginner Scuba Dive in Lahaina: Swimming Required
Number 2 on our list is the Beginner Scuba Dive in Lahaina. This experience is perfect if you’re new to scuba and eager to try it out in a relaxed setting. It lasts about two hours and includes both classroom instruction and your first ocean dive. The calm, shallow waters make it an excellent place to learn breathing techniques and ocean etiquette, with the chance to see turtles, eels, and colorful fish. The small group size ensures personalized guidance, and all equipment is provided. With a 5.0 rating from 205 reviews, guests appreciate the thorough instruction and the chance to see Maui’s underwater world up close.
Bottom Line: If you want a safe, fun introduction to scuba with a focus on marine life, this is a great choice.
3. Maui Scuba Diving Introductory Lesson from Lahaina
Number 3 offers a 3-hour introductory lesson designed for those who’ve always wondered what it’s like to breathe underwater. This lesson combines classroom theory with shallow water practice, then moves to a reef just off Maui’s coast. The small group of four allows for detailed instruction and plenty of individual attention. You’ll get to see green sea turtles and other marine creatures, with the instructor sharing insights about the local ecosystem. Many guests describe this experience as “the real deal” and praise the instructor’s safety and friendliness. It’s ideal for travelers who want to try scuba without a long commitment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners wanting a comprehensive, personalized intro to the underwater world.
4. Discover Scuba Diving Class from Lahaina
This Discover Scuba Diving Class is a popular choice for those who’ve always wanted to try scuba but aren’t ready to commit long-term. Over about three hours, you’ll learn the fundamentals with a PADI instructor, then take your first shallow water dive among Maui’s coral reefs. The class caps at four participants, so you’ll get personal attention and clear guidance. Many reviewers mention encountering turtles and sharks, and the instructor’s professionalism makes the experience memorable. It’s great for confident kids or adults new to the sport willing to spend a little extra to get up close with Maui’s marine life.
Bottom Line: A well-paced introduction that combines learning and snorkeling, perfect for beginners eager to explore underwater.
5. VIP Aloha Nui Snorkel Adventure w/ optional SCUBA from Lahaina
Number 5 is the VIP Aloha Nui Snorkel Adventure, which focuses on exploring Maui’s vibrant coral gardens and colorful schools of fish. This tour lasts about four and a half hours, giving plenty of time for snorkeling and optional scuba for those certified or new divers. The guide helps you find the best spots based on conditions, ensuring you see turtles, eels, and other marine life. Lunch and snacks are included, and the onboard atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 136 reviews, it’s a favorite for those who want a mix of guided exploration and comfort.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families and mixed groups wanting snorkeling with a chance to try scuba.
6. Maui Certified Shore Diving from Lahaina
For certified divers wanting flexibility, the Maui Certified Shore Diving offers a 1-tank adventure from Lahaina’s coast. With about three hours out in the water, you’ll explore local reefs and search for octopus, turtles, and colorful corals. The guide will select locations based on weather and conditions, making it suitable for experienced divers who prefer a more independent experience with expert support. Reviewers mention the attentive guide Gabi, who writes down the names of all the fish seen, making this a great educational experience as well.
Bottom Line: Best for confident divers wanting a personalized, low-impact shore experience.
7. Guided Scuba Dive in Lahaina: Certified
Next, the Guided Scuba Dive in Lahaina offers a quick, two-hour tour for certified divers needing a refresher. It’s perfect if you haven’t been in a while but still want to enjoy Maui’s underwater sights. The small group and professional guidance ensure safety and comfort, with guests often seeing plenty of turtles and vibrant reefs. One reviewer highlighted that the guide’s meticulous approach led to a memorable experience, with some seeing over 30 turtles! It’s a practical choice for those short on time but wanting quality.
Bottom Line: Good for certified divers seeking a brief, safe, and well-guided ocean outing.
8. Private and Personalized Scuba Diving Adventures for All Experience Levels
If you prefer a custom approach, the Private and Personalized Scuba Diving Adventures give you a dedicated guide. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced diver, a professional with wildlife biology expertise will tailor your trip. Reviews mention that Michelle, the guide, creates a calm, informative environment, taking you to local reefs with abundant marine life. This is ideal for travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience and possibly combine diving with wildlife education.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting a custom, expert-led dive tailored to their interests.
9. Turtle & Shark Scuba Dive in Lahaina: Certified
Number 9 offers a Turtle & Shark Scuba Dive, a 2-hour private exploration of Maui’s reef system. Here, you’ll see green sea turtles, reef sharks, and a variety of other species in their natural habitat. The guide provides undivided attention, making it suitable even for less experienced divers. Many reviews highlight the chance to see multiple sharks and turtles, with instructors ensuring comfort and safety throughout. This is an excellent choice for adventurous travelers seeking a personalized, wildlife-rich experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife lovers who want a private, immersive reef experience with sharks and turtles.
10. PADI Scuba Lesson and Shore Dive in Maui
Number 10 features a PADI Scuba Lesson and Shore Dive. This 1.5-hour course is great for beginners wanting to learn the basics and then immediately practice in shallow waters. With expert instruction and all gear provided, you’ll gain confidence as you explore Maui’s reefs. The instructor’s international experience and patient approach make this an accessible option. Many reviews mention seeing turtles and colorful fish, with some even planning a second dive afterward.
Bottom Line: Ideal for beginner divers seeking a quick, practical introduction with immediate underwater practice.
11. South Maui Discover Scuba Dive
Number 11 offers a South Maui Discover Scuba Dive. Designed for complete beginners, it combines classroom instruction and shallow water skills with ocean dives. Expect to see fish, turtles, and coral on your first open water experience. Reviewers praise the patient instructor Michael and the inclusion of underwater photos. It’s a relaxed way to experience Maui’s underwater environment with full supervision.
Bottom Line: Suitable for newcomers looking for a straightforward, educational dive with great marine sightings.
12. Scuba Diving in Maui with No Experience Needed
Number 12 is the No Experience Needed tour, perfect for absolute beginners. Over two hours, you’ll learn how to breathe underwater with a PADI professional and then explore the reef. Reviewers mention encountering turtles, fish, and a calm, patient guide. It’s a flexible option for those unsure about diving but eager to see Maui’s marine life.
Bottom Line: An accessible, beginner-friendly introduction to underwater exploration.
13. 2-Tank Maui Turtle Scuba Dive or Snorkel Boat Tour
Number 13 provides a 2-tank Maui Turtle Scuba Dive or Snorkel Boat Tour. It combines snorkeling and scuba options, with dives around Honolua Bay, Mala, and Olowalu. You’ll see turtles, rays, octopus, and reef sharks at about 12 meters depth. The tour emphasizes a personalized experience with light snacks and easy-to-understand briefings, suitable for beginners and families.
Bottom Line: Great for mixed groups wanting flexibility between snorkeling and diving, with a focus on marine encounters.
14. Maui: Beginner Discovery Scuba Dive Excursion from Lahaina
This Beginner Discovery Scuba Dive combines a short lesson with a fun dive, lasting about two and a half hours. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to experience the ocean without prior experience. Guests report seeing fish and turtles, and many mention the instructor’s patience and clear instructions as highlights.
Bottom Line: A practical, low-pressure dive experience for newcomers wanting to try scuba in Maui.
15. Small Group Shark & Turtle Scuba Dive from Shore
Number 15 offers an intimate Shark & Turtle Shore Dive. You explore a sunken pier turned reef, swimming with turtles, sharks, and other marine creatures. The small group setting and expert guide make it suitable for all levels, especially those wanting a personalized experience in a less crowded environment.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those seeking a small-group, wildlife-filled shore adventure.
16. Eco-Friendly Conservation Scuba Dive Certified Divers
Finally, the Eco-Friendly Conservation Dive focuses on protecting Maui’s reefs. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about sea turtles, coral conservation, and fish identification while making a positive difference. The personalized approach and commitment to sustainability make this an inspiring option for eco-minded travelers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for divers looking to give back to the ocean while exploring Maui’s marine environment.
$200 per person
How to Choose Your Best Maui Scuba Experience
When selecting your ideal Maui scuba tour, consider your budget, time available, skill level, and what you most want to experience. For beginners, options like Beginner Scuba Dive in Lahaina or Scuba Diving in Maui with No Experience Needed provide gentle introductions. If you’re certified and want an adventure, Lanai Cathedral offers stunning underwater structures and wildlife. For a customized experience, Private Scuba Adventures are hard to beat.
Booking early is especially wise in peak seasons (summer and winter holidays), and always check reviews to ensure guides prioritize safety and comfort.
Maui offers everything from quick refresher dives to immersive wildlife encounters. For active travelers, certified dives like the Lanai Cathedral can give you a deep look at the island’s underwater caves and arches. First-timers should consider beginner-friendly options like Lahaina’s Introductory Lessons, which combine learning with fun. And for those wanting a personal touch, private tours make for a memorable, tailored experience. Whichever you choose, Maui’s waters promise a rewarding adventure—just book ahead and get ready to explore beneath the waves.