

Best for beginner divers, 3-12m, shore entry, mild current.
Cliff House is a shallow reef system located 91 metres from the shore in Molokini Crater. This site features hard coral formations at depths between 3 and 12 metres, suitable for beginners. Divers can encounter wrasses, which are very common, alongside less frequent species including the Turkey Moray, Zebra Moray, Day Octopus, Black Durgeon, and various butterflyfish and tangs. The site experiences mild currents, though divers should remain aware of potential rip currents, surf, and sharp coral. Entry is from the shore, and divers are advised to maintain neutral buoyancy to protect the reef and avoid contact with sea urchins.
21.00419, -156.65991
Position yourself motionless on sandy channels between coral heads to increase eagle ray encounter probability.
Boat pickup occurs in the protected lee of the cliff formations.
Recorded at this site
Depth
3-12m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
24-26°C
Current
Mild
Best Time
Year-round
Divers regularly encounter wrasses, while uncommon sightings include Turkey Moray, Zebra Moray, Day Octopus, Black Durgeon, Ornate Butterflyfish, Moorish Idol, Spotted Boxfish, Bluefin Trevally, Pacific Orange-spine Unicornfish, Fourspot Butterflyfish, Bird Wrasse, Pacific Sailfin Tang, and Threadfin Butterflyfish.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners with depths ranging from 3 to 12 metres.
Cliff House is accessed via a shore entry located 91 metres from the beach.
The site features mild currents, but divers should be cautious of rip currents, surf, and sharp coral in the area.
While primarily a dive site, the shallow depths of 3 to 12 metres make it accessible for snorkelling, provided conditions are safe.
Diving at Cliff House in Maui requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Cliff House in Maui. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 26°C.
The best months to visit Cliff House in Maui are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.