We began a two week look at Maui, Lanai and Molokai reefs with a visit to Turtle Reef on Maui. Turtle Reef is located outside and to the south of the harbor in Lahaina.
Furthermore, the name of this reef actually refers to a general area of reef on the western side of Maui. The site runs from just past the harbor in 
Lahaina to Ukumehama Beach State Park (also know as Thousand Peaks). In fact, this large area of reef has many dive spots and is relatively shallow with most of the dive under 35 to 40 feet. This is a great spot for chilling and the reef is in very good conditions in most areas. In addition, this site is popular for refresher dives and for completing the basic dives required for scuba certification.
The site can be a bit cloudy if the seas are choppy or you have a large swell, but for the most part visibility is reasonable. It is also a good place to see a wide variety of Hawaiian marine life. This site can be accessed from boat or shore. The trip fro the harbor is just about 10 minutes so an easy ride and a great way to spend an afternoon.
Sea Turtles of Hawaii
Five of the world’s seven species of sea turtles make their home in Hawaii. These include the Green Sea Turtle (honu), Hawksbill (honu‘ea), Leatherback, loggerhead, and Olive Ridley. However, the green sea turtle is by far the most commonly encountered sea turtle on Hawaiian reefs. The next most common is theHawksbill. Olive ridley, Leatherback, and Loggerhead sea turtles are typically found in deeper, offshore waters. Consequently they are rarely seen by the average ocean-goer. On Maui, sea turtles are a favorite discovery of snorkelers and divers on the island’s South and West coastlines.
Up later in the week are dives on Molokini Crater, Lanai, other areas of Maui and Molokai (looking for those Hammerheads).
The pool is open…