The ‘Ahihi-Kina‘u reserve is located on the southwest corner of the island of Maui and was the first designated Natural Area Reserve in 1973. The 1,238 acres contain marine ecosystems (807 submereged acres), rare and fragile anchialine ponds, and lava fields from the last eruption of Haleakala 200-500 years ago. Native plant communities that include naio, wiliwili and native cotton exist in kipuka, or pockets, but are severly imperiled by the encroachment of weeds and feral ungulates such as goats. A coral reef survey done by the Division of Aquatic Resources in 2007 indicated that the reef community within the NAR boundary waters was the only reef from their test sites that was not declining overall.  Preserving the integrity of the anchialine pools is a major management focus. All access to them is closed. Main threats to these wetlands include non-native invasives such as fish or prawns, algal mat formations, and human disturbance.

Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve

Snorkeled Ahihi Bay twice in August 2005.  Visibility was great.  Current was consistent & not a problem, though it picked up toward noon.  Lots of coral & wide assortment of fish (& lots of them).  I also saw four sea turtles, 2 spotted eels & 1 spotted eagle ray.  Watch the undercarriage of your car as you pull into the parking "lot".

Julie's Dive Log

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