Dive-site story
Located off the rugged south coast of Lanai, Second Cathedral is a hollowed volcanic lava dome pierced by arches, skylights, and side passages. Sunlight filters through openings in the ceiling, illuminating the interior chamber where whitetip reef sharks often rest on the sandy floor. Divers explore the dramatic central cavern before moving out onto the surrounding spur-and-groove reef system filled with Hawaiian endemics.
Massive volcanic cavern lit by natural skylights and overhead fissures
Frequent encounters with whitetip reef sharks resting inside the main chamber
Lush black coral colonies growing in shaded overhangs and swim-throughs
Surrounding basalt topography covered in lobe coral and sea urchins
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Summer and autumn months generally offer calmer sea conditions across the channel and reduced south swells.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whitetip Reef SharkTriaenodon obesus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Green Sea TurtleChelonia mydas | Common | ||||||||||||
| Bandit AngelfishApolemichthys arcuatus | Rare | ||||||||||||
| Yellowmargin MorayGymnothorax flavimarginatus | Common | ||||||||||||
| Hawaiian TurkeyfishPterois sphex | Seasonal |
Marine forecast
