Nearly three years after the devastating Maui wildfires destroyed businesses along Lahaina’s historic waterfront, one of the area’s established dive operators is welcoming customers once again.
Maui Diving & Sporting Goods has officially reopened in a new Lahaina location, providing a welcome boost for both the local diving community and the island’s recovering marine tourism sector. The reopening marks another significant milestone in Lahaina’s long road to recovery following the August 2023 wildfires that devastated the town and claimed more than 100 lives.
The business will once again offer the services it was known for before the disaster, including scuba diving instruction, guided shore and boat dives, snorkelling excursions, freediving experiences, equipment rentals and retail sales.
Owner Jessica Pickering said reopening in Lahaina was never in doubt despite losing the original premises in the fire.
“Losing the shop in the fire broke my heart, but reopening in Lahaina was never in question,” Pickering told Hawaii News Now.
“This town gave me everything I have right now. Rebuilding right here in Lahaina is my way of saying we’re still standing, we’re still here for our community, and we’re ready to enjoy this life with you.”
The new premises on Ulupono Street opened with a traditional Hawaiian blessing before welcoming members of the community, divers and visitors to celebrate the business’s return.
A Positive Sign for Maui’s Dive Industry
While many dive operators around Maui continued operating after the fires, the destruction of Lahaina’s commercial district represented a major setback for West Maui’s tourism infrastructure.
The reopening of Maui Diving & Sporting Goods represents more than the return of a single business. It reflects the resilience of the local dive community and demonstrates that rebuilding continues nearly three years after one of Hawaii’s worst natural disasters.
The timing is also significant as Maui continues working to restore visitor confidence while balancing responsible tourism with community recovery.
The dive centre joins a growing number of local businesses reopening in Lahaina, including West Maui Sports & Fishing Supply, which also recently returned to the town after losing its original premises in the fires.
For divers planning a trip to Hawaii, the reopening means another experienced operator is once again available to offer guided dives, snorkelling trips, training and equipment services on one of the Pacific’s most celebrated diving destinations.
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