Mala Warf

Mala Wharf is a shallow artificial-reef dive site formed by the collapsed concrete wharf; broken pilings and beams lie on a sandy bottom and create swim-through channels and overhangs. The site is best known for abundant marine life, notably Hawaiian green sea turtles, white-tip reef sharks, frogfish, and colorful reef fishes. Depth generally ranges from about 10 ft in the inner shallows to roughly 30-35 ft at the outer edges. Visibility is often excellent (for example 40-100 ft in clear weather) and water temperatures are typically in the mid-70s to low 80s °F year-round. Entry is from the rocky shoreline with a wade-in through lava rock; the site is also accessible from small boats and a nearby mooring field. Currents and surge are usually light, but rough surf can cause surge or rip currents near shore and occasional boat traffic is present at the surface; diving at high tide and in calm conditions is commonly recommended. Hard-soled booties or reef shoes are recommended because of sharp rocks and abundant sea urchins. The site is open and shallow with no overhead restrictions, making it suitable for all certified levels and snorkelers in calm conditions. The pier was built in 1922 and was partially destroyed by Hurricane Iniki in 1992; the remaining broken concrete pilings now form the artificial-wreck structure, with coral and sponge growth on the pilings that divers explore.