Mala Wharf (sometimes called Mala Pier) was once a fully-functioning pier which served as a shipping facility for the island’s pineapple and agriculture. In 1992, however, 30 ft. surf came marching into Lahaina as a result of Hurricane Iniki, and the end of the dock was completely destroyed. Today, the pilings from the old dock lie scattered along the ocean floor, and what was once a shipping facility above water is now a healthy artificial reef which is home to a vast array of marine life.

The dive at Mala is one of the best shore dives on Maui. The dive much like a wreck or cave dive in that you can dive through and under parts of the pier. Be careful as some of the "coves" are dark and there can be debris from the pier, such as concrete rebar.

The light shining through the pier is magnificent, along with the marine life. Dozens of turtles, rock fish, frog fish, white tip reef sharks, and the occasional ray can all be seen here. I have never been diving here and not seen at least one white tip reef shark.

Take Front Street to Ala Moana Street (just south of Lahaina Cannery Mall). You will see signs for Mala Small Boat Ramp. Turn on this street and stay to the right. Drive as close to the boat ramp as you can and park in one of the stalls. Note that the dive site and entry is to the left of the old collapsed pier. To the right is an active boat launching ramp and harbor.

It is best to dive at high tide, as the entry requires walking about 50 ft on rocks/dead reef. Once you can put on your fins, do so and swim until it drops off to about 10-15 ft. The dive is all along the collapsed pier.

Mala Wharf is also known as Mala Harbor.

Mala Wharf

We dove this site mid February. The left side access is the best bet, really shallow (Knee Deep)until you get to where the pier starts to fall apart. Wear your booties, lots of urchins and fish hooks. Tons of boat traffic on the right side being an active boat landing! We saw massive assortment of life, white tip sharks, eels, turtles, moorish idols, even a frog fish!!! There are a few swim throughs to try also. Be sure to take a dive flag with you DLNR frequents this site, please don't tie off to living things, plenty of rebar and concrete to tie off on.

Jason from Richmond's Dive Log

@jason_from_richmond

1 dives