

Best for advanced divers, 40-107m, boat entry, strong current.
The Back Side of Molokini Crater is a challenging wall and drift dive requiring advanced skills. The site features a steep wall that drops from 40 metres to 107 metres, with visibility ranging between 30 and 45 metres. Divers must navigate strong currents that push along the wall, necessitating the use of a surface marker buoy. Water temperatures remain between 22 and 24 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Due to heavy boat traffic and significant depths, divers must maintain strict buoyancy control, monitor their depth continuously, and coordinate pickup procedures with their boat skipper before entry. This site is strictly for advanced divers comfortable with deep, open-water drift conditions.
20.63000, -156.49599
Plan your ascent well away from the boat lane and confirm the pickup procedure with your skipper before you go down, as current can push you a considerable distance from the entry point. Carry a surface marker buoy and deploy it during your safety stop without exception.
Most dive boats leave from Kihei Boat Ramp or Maalaea Harbor. Beach entry is possible at Maluaka with Kai Kanani.
Recorded at this site
Depth
40-107m
Visibility
30-45m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
22-24°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
50 min
No, this site is intended for advanced divers only due to the extreme depths, strong currents, and the requirement to manage boat traffic during ascent.
The site features a wall that ranges from 40 metres to 107 metres in depth.
This is a boat-only dive site located approximately 4828 metres from shore.
No, this site is not suitable for snorkelling due to the extreme depths and strong currents.
Primary hazards include strong currents, significant depths, and heavy boat traffic. Divers must use a surface marker buoy and remain close to the boat.
Diving at The Back Side in Kihei requires the following certifications: Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
A 5mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at The Back Side in Kihei. Water temperatures range from 22°C to 24°C.
The Back Side in Kihei can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at The Back Side in Kihei typically ranges from 30 metres to 45 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.