Molokini Back Wall

Entry and exit are from the dive boat. Due to the site's exposure to ocean currents and deep water, a negative descent is often used. Drift diving protocols are standard, with divers maintaining contact with the wall while drifting with the current. Surface marker buoys are essential for pickup at the end of the dive.

Boat-only dive site, accessible via dive charters departing from Maalaea or Kihei harbors. Few operators visit the Back Wall compared to the more popular interior reef of Molokini, so advance booking with a specialized operator is advised. Boat ride is approximately 30-45 minutes.

The Back Wall is known for pelagic encounters including manta rays, eagle rays, sharks (reef, hammerhead, and occasionally tiger), large jacks, and tuna. During winter months, humpback whales can be heard and sometimes seen in the distance. The wall itself hosts black coral, rare deep-water species, and schools of pyramid butterflyfish.

The site features a nearly vertical wall starting at about 50 feet and dropping well beyond recreational dive limits to depths of 300+ feet. The volcanic rock face has various ledges, small caves, and crevices. The exposure to open ocean creates excellent visibility often exceeding 150 feet. Currents can be moderate to strong, typically running north to south along the wall.

As a boat dive, parking depends on your charter's departure point, typically Maalaea or Kihei Boat Ramps. Ample parking is available at these harbors, though early arrival is recommended during peak season.

Facilities are limited to what's provided on the dive boat and at the harbor before and after the trip. Most charter boats offer basic amenities such as freshwater rinse, light refreshments, and marine toilets.

Low, as the advanced nature of the dive, stronger currents, and more limited boat options naturally restrict the number of divers. Even when multiple boats are present at Molokini, few visit the Back Wall side, focusing instead on the protected interior reef. This site provides a more exclusive experience even during peak tourist season.

Strong and unpredictable currents require advanced buoyancy skills and comfort with drift diving techniques. The dramatic drop-off and deep water can create disorientation - maintain visual contact with the wall for reference. Surface conditions can be rough due to exposure to open ocean; swells and chop are common. Water temperature may be cooler than protected sites due to upwellings from deep water. Communication with the boat is crucial - all divers should carry surface marker buoys for pickup. Due to depth and currents, air consumption can be rapid - conservative dive planning is essential.