Mokule'ia is another great dive and snorkel site, but it's a good hike down to the beach.  A great place to spend the day with the kids, so bring a cooler with food and water.

The name “Slaughterhouse Beach” comes from the Honolua Ranch slaughterhouse and tanning/storage shed that were (oh, so conveniently) located on the cliff’s edge above the ocean. The buildings were torn down in the 60’s, but the lovely name stuck. In contrast, the Hawaiian name Mokule’ia means “district of abundance”, and like most Hawaiian names, is a very accurate description.

Mokule’ia Bay is part of the same preserve as its neighbor Honolua Bay: the Honolua-Mokule’ia Bay Marine Life Conservation District. But unlike its rocky neighbor to the north, much of the year this bay has a nice sandy beach to relax on.

During the winter months there are often large well-formed waves that are perfect for the more experienced boogie boarders and surfers. But the large surf can often become dangerous, and even the most experienced need to keep a healthy respect for the ocean in mind. In summer months the waves are much more mellow and are often suitable for beginners. When the ocean is tame there is also very good snorkeling around the the north point and into Honolua Bay.

Travel North on Highway 31 until about mile mark 32.6.  You can't miss the bay off to your left.

Mokule'ia Beach (Slaughterhouse)

I dove solo here several time in August of 2004.  A great place to dive if you are alone because you don't have to go very deep to have a lot of fun.  When I dive alone, I don't enjoy going much deeper that about 30' and was delighted to find wonderful reefs and a fair amount of colorful life.  The lava flows create a dramatic and beautiful place to explore.  Each time I went there the beach was packed, but I was the only diver in the area.  It is a very popular snorkeling area (for good reason) but divers can pretty much have it to themselves.

Mike at Newport's Dive Log

@mike_at_newport

1 dives