First Cathedrals
Cavern dive with dramatic light and unique lava formations.
Boat Access
15m Avg Depth
18m Max Depth
About this dive site
First Cathedral is a truly remarkable dive site located on Maui. Entering through a dark hole, divers are immediately transported to an expansive cavern, illuminated by skylights that cast turquoise beams upon the scene. The centerpiece of this underwater cathedral is a vividly lit central altar – a fallen lava rock from the ceiling. Exploring further reveals ‘confessionals,’ small side chambers often hosting resting sharks, pufferfish, crabs, eels, and nudibranchs. A unique exit point, known as the 'shotgun,' leads out through a lava shoot to a coral garden and other lava formations, where frogfish, reef fish, and more eels can be observed. This unforgettable dive site is accessible year-round, consistently providing a memorable underwater experience.
DivingFreedivingSnorkeling
Plan Your Visit
cavernswim-throughsharkturtlecoral reeflava formationwide angleboat dive
Marine Life
AngelfishBannerfishBoxfishClown fishCrabEelFrogfishGrouperLionfishManta rayNudibranchOctopusParrotfishPipefishPuffer fishReef fishScorpionfishSharkSnapperSurgeonfishSweetlipsTriggerfishTrumpetfishTurtleWhitetip reef shark
Things to Note
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Cavern environment requires good buoyancy control, despite moderate depth.
Hazards:
overhead environmentcurrentmarine lifeboat traffic
Current Strength:
Variable
Nearby Dive Sites
Explore other dive sites in the area

United States, Hawaii, Maui Molokini Shoal Marine Life Conservation District
Deep, advanced drift dive along a dramatic volcanic wall.
Loading more nearby sites...
