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Snorkeling and Scuba Diving at Mokule'ia Beach (Slaughterhouse)
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.
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Mike Roberts
Sep 5, 2001, 12:00 AM
scuba
Also known as Slaughterhouse to surfers, this is a nice dive in the Summer when there's no good surf. This is a long walk down (and back up later!) a long flight of cement stairs so bring an energy bar or 2. You'll want to arrive early so you can park next to the stairs or your walk will be even further. Best diving is to the left (South side) of the bay. Inside the bay is Marine Reserve and not too good for diving but outside is great! The bottom is made up of long gullies of lava flow running from shore out to sea. It's fun to explore them with all their little holes and caves. I have seen a higher concentration of turtles here than any place on Maui. You will also encounter lot's of eels, lobsters, and large cowerie shells. If you must take lobster, please be sure they are in season, have no eggs, and you find another way to exit with them without going back thru the reserve area or you may get busted! Other than the walking and swimming distance, this is an easy sandy entrance with a pretty little beach for anyone not diving with you. For snorkeling, I would suggest going around the point to the right (North) where you will be in Honolua Reserve (also listed on this site). Lot's people are on this beach and in the surf but you will probably be diving alone.