Diving atFive Caves at Makena Landing (United States)
Referred to by many names over the years—Five Caves, Five Graves, Turtle Town, or Turtle Arches—this site near Makena Landing has long been a centerpiece for South Maui divers. Its reputation as a significant underwater location stems from a combination of unique geological features and abundant marine life. For decades, it's drawn both snorkelers and certified divers seeking memorable encounters beneath the surface.
As evening covers Five Caves at Makena Landing, the local air temperature is measured at 24.5°C. The current wave height at the surface is recorded at 0.78m. These late-day readings characterize the surface conditions for the night.
Dive Site Coordinates
20.6538, -156.4411
Key Dive Site Facts
Dive Site Overview
Five Caves' topography presents a series of fascinating lava fingers, arches, and grottoes extending from Nahuna Point. Divers typically begin their journey from Makena Landing's sand boat ramp, surface swimming along the sandy coastline to the right for approximately 200 yards (about 15-20 minutes).
A surface swim rounds the point, leading to underwater rock formations where the dive truly begins. One of the initial features is an arch, offering an inviting swim-through at relatively shallow depths. Continuing on, the site reveals its namesake caves, which are more numerous than five.
These include the Sand Cave, also known as the Shark Cave, a frequent resting spot for white-tip reef sharks. Further into the site, the Bubble Cave features a distinct air pocket where divers can surface within the cavern itself.
Dive depths vary, generally ranging from 3-12 m (10-40 ft), with some outer reaches extending to about 14 m (45 ft). Diverse formations, combined with prolific marine inhabitants, create an experience often compared to the Cathedrals off Lanai.
Best Time to Dive
Planning a dive at Five Caves often revolves around maximizing visibility and calm conditions. Early mornings are consistently reported as the best time to dive, typically before stronger winds pick up and crowds gather, ensuring optimal clarity. While specific water temperature data isn't consistently reported, air temperatures average between 22-25°C (72-77°F) year-round, suggesting comfortable conditions. Rain levels are generally low, ranging from 1.6-6.7 mm monthly, minimizing runoff that could affect underwater visibility. Typical visibility here ranges from 15-18 m (50-60 ft), though it can vary with swell and wind. Wind speeds are usually moderate, between 10-13 km/h (6-8 mph), but can influence surface chop, making an early start advisable.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Beginning at a shallow 3 m (10 ft) and extending to a maximum depth of approximately 14 meters on its outer edges, Five Caves accommodates a range of divers. From a surface swim over sandy bottoms, the site transitions into exploring complex lava formations. Divers will navigate around lava fingers, enjoy a swim-through arch, and eventually encounter the series of caves. Exploring the Bubble Cave, with its air dome, requires careful equalization; divers prone to ear issues might find this challenging. Most divers can comfortably explore at least the first three caves, including the Shark Cave. Generally considered suitable for beginner to intermediate certified divers, full exploration of all grottos and deeper sections benefits from intermediate or advanced skills.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Accessing Five Caves requires careful planning, as entry via a rocky beach without amenities is possible but less convenient. Preferably, entry is from Makena Landing's sand boat ramp, which provides easy entry/exit, restrooms, and showers. Conditions can change rapidly, particularly with afternoon winds and swells, so monitoring ocean forecasts is crucial. Within the Bubble Cave, divers must be mindful of pressure changes when ascending into the air pocket to avoid ear discomfort upon exit. All certified divers need to present proof of certification at check-in, and it's recommended to have dived within the last two years to ensure readiness for this environment. No specific hazards beyond typical ocean conditions are consistently reported for this site.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
2-3mm shorty or light wetsuit is often considered an appropriate level of exposure protection for conditions like these. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds.
Divers entering the water at Five Caves at Makena Landing today can expect temperatures near 26°C (79°F) beneath the surface. Surface air temperatures are resting at 25°C (76°F).
Environmental conditions may feel slightly cooler as the week progresses. Cooler days are ahead; you might want a warmer option for later in the week. Having a second exposure option available is often a good precaution.
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
Check local United States medical facilities.
Entry Requirements
View United States Visa Hub
Currency
USD
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Marine Life at Five Caves at Makena Landing
Often, green sea turtles are the most immediately noticeable marine inhabitants, frequently resting within the site's numerous holes and caves, giving it the 'Turtle Town' moniker. White-tip reef sharks are commonly spotted taking morning naps inside the caves, particularly the one known as the Shark Cave. Beyond these, the site is rich with a variety of reef fish, including spotted eagle rays, butterfly fish, eels, nudibranchs, and octopuses. Occasionally, divers might even spot the ultra-rare Flame Angelfish, Gold Lace nudibranchs, or a Hawaiian Monk Seal, one of the world's most endangered marine mammals.
Dive Sites Near Five Caves at Makena Landing
View all dive sites in United StatesDiscover more underwater gems in this area.
Dive Centers Near Five Caves at Makena Landing
No Dive Centers Local To Five Caves at Makena Landing
Are you a dive center visiting this location? Get listed to reach divers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What skill level is required for diving Five Caves?
This site is recommended for beginner to intermediate certified divers. While some areas are accessible to beginners, exploring all the caves and deeper sections is best suited for intermediate or advanced divers.
How do I access the Five Caves dive site?
The easiest access is from Makena Landing's sand boat ramp. From there, you'll perform a surface swim along the coastline for about 200 yards (15-20 minutes) to reach the main dive area around Nahuna Point.
Are there actually five caves at this dive site?
The name 'Five Caves' is largely symbolic; there are actually more than five distinct caves, grottoes, and outcroppings to explore. Most divers easily navigate at least the first three main caves.
What is the Bubble Cave?
The Bubble Cave is a unique cavern within the site that contains a large air pocket. Divers can surface inside this air dome, but should be prepared for potential ear pressure changes upon entry and exit.
What is the typical depth at Five Caves?
The dive site generally ranges from 3 to 12 meters. Outer reef areas and lava fingers can extend slightly deeper, typically to around 45 feet.
What marine life is commonly seen here?
Green sea turtles are abundant and frequently seen, a common sight contributing to the 'Turtle Town' nickname. White-tip reef sharks often rest in the caves, and you might also spot spotted eagle rays, various reef fish, eels, and nudibranchs.
Liveaboards Sailing to Five Caves at Makena Landing
Explore highly rated liveaboards visiting this dive site and discover the best routes in United States.
Resorts & Accommodation
Find partner hotels and dive resorts directly accessing the reef.
Around This Area
Explore top-rated restaurants, activities, and attractions near Five Caves at Makena Landing reviewed by travelers.
Planning to dive Five Caves at Makena Landing?
Send one inquiry and receive offers directly from the best verified local dive operators.