Do you want to
snorkel at Molokini?
About Molokini
Molokini is a
rare, partially
submerged
volcanic
crater.
It is located just a few miles off Maui’s shore and is Hawaii’s only island marine sanctuary. Scientists believe Molokini Crater formed about 150 thousand years ago.
Molokini rises from 300 feet below the ocean’s surface and is just under a half-mile wide and peaks at about 160 feet above sea level with half of it being hidden under the surface of the ocean. Divers and snorkelers flock from all around the world to experience the incredible underwater marine life.
Snorkeling experience
Island
marine
preserve
The isolation of Molokini Crater creates a unique snorkeling experience. There are significant reasons why snorkeling at Molokini is so special. The quality of the water surrounding Molokini is superior, providing unsurpassed clarity. Visibility is consistently excellent, often in excess of 150 feet. Molokini is rock, with no soil to wash down into the water.
Absent of sediment, the water is amazingly clear allowing excellent sunlight penetration. This enhanced sunlight feeds the algae living inside the coral. Offshore currents bring food, while flushing away what little sediment exists. The result is a uniquely healthy coral reef providing unsurpassed snorkeling. Located in the middle of Molokini, this reef is protected from waves and surges.
Ready to discover?
Marine Life
Inside the sheltered arms of the crater, Molokini is an amazing underwater Marine Sanctuary. Underwater at Molokini is a flourishing coral reef, where thousands of fish and marine animals cohabitate. Molokini’s shallow reef is teeming with a wide variety of colorful and fascinating fish and marine animals. You will experience a rare opportunity to closely observe the marine life at Molokini.
Your Molokini snorkel adventure is one you will cherish and not soon forget! Molokini is the ultimate snorkeling experience, and because of its crystal clear sheltered waters, Molokini snorkeling is a safe and unique adventure for the entire family. From its shallow calm waters, diverse marine life and beautiful coral reef, Molokini is superb.
Nature Conservation
Molokini Island was declared a Marine Life Conservation District in 1977. Since then, with increased concerns and interest in the health of Hawaii’s Reefs, the State of Hawaii in partnership with the University of Hawaii monitors the water quality and coral coverage at Molokini. Commercial operators including the Pride of Maui work together to protect Molokini, removing nothing from its waters.
Passenger vessels are tied to moorings, instead of dropping anchors on the reef. Fish and marine animals are not fed or harassed. From visitors to those of us who make a living by sharing the amazing beauty of Molokini with others, we’re all stewards and our protective measures are vital to the future sustainability of Molokini.
Wildlife
Seabirds crowd the steep slopes of Molokini. There are two primary species of nesting birds, Wedge-tailed Shearwaters and Bulwer’s Petrels. Over a thousand pairs nest in the rocky cliffs. The vast majority are Shearwaters, which feed at sea during the day, returning to their nests and chicks at night.
Brown Boobies also roost at Molokini, along with large Frigate birds, whose wingspan can reach 7 feet across. The Frigate birds with superior flying skills harass other seabirds until they drop their food, which the Frigate bird recovers in mid-air. Hawaiians named them Iwa birds, which translated means thief.
Two boats, two adventures
Which one
will you choose?
You can sail to Molokini Crater in two ways: on the smaller Pride of Maui ‘Elua, with a capacity of up to 40 people, or the larger catamaran Pride of Maui for up to 149 people.
Pride of Maui
Learn more about Pride of MauiPride of Maui ‘Elua
Learn more about Pride of Maui 'EluaImportant info to know
Molokini
Crater
history
During World War II, Molokini was used for target practice. Bombing and strafing left impact craters, shrapnel, and bullets along the slopes of Molokini, still visible today. It is believed that roosting and nesting birds avoided Molokini during the War, because of target practice and strafing maneuvers.
What
awaits you
Snorkeling at Molokini is unlike any other Maui snorkeling experience because of its unique dynamics and underwater majesty. Molokini has beautiful coral reef and marine animals With over 200 species of fish, many endemic to Hawaii,
exploring the coral reef is the experience of a lifetime. A rare treat is the gentle plankton-feeding Whale Shark, known to visit Molokini. Whale sharks are very large plankton feeders (aka vegetarians) which are not a threat to humans.
The best snorkel spots
Molokini Crater
TAKO FLATS
A shallow channel with coral heads, Tako Flats is an area of Molokini where you can find marine life including octopus, Manta ray, nudibranchs and barracudas. Good for beginner to intermediate divers.
MIDDLE REEF
A large mount that rises in the center of Molokini, the Middle reef is home to a variety of tropical fish, including trumpetfish, butterflyfish, whitetips, and Giant Trevally. Ideal for beginner and intermediate divers.
REEF’S END
Reef’s End is the western tip of the Molokini Crater. It’s a long healthy reef covered in Cauliflower coral and features a wealth of life, including reef sharks, morays, Squirrelfish, and Giant Trevally. Perfect for beginner divers and snorkelers.
SHARK CONDOS
Down around 130 feet, you’ll find harmless reef sharks and lobster hiding in the caves and underwater platforms.
ENENUE
This side of the Molokini starts around 30 feet and slopes down to about 60 feet. If you’re close to the crater wall, you’ll find an abundance of butterflyfish in the shallow areas. Suitable for divers at the beginner or intermediate level.
FLYING SEA CLIFFS
A favorite for scuba divers that love the many hanging shelves around 50 feet down. Beneath the main shelf is another 80 feet of water before reaching the bottom. Under the ledges, red sponges and tube coral can be seen only with powerful lights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater is a crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater off the coast of Maui, Hawaii. It is a popular snorkeling and diving destination known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
Molokini Crater was formed over thousands of years through volcanic activity and erosion. It is what remains of an ancient cinder cone that eroded and partially sank into the ocean, leaving behind a distinctive crescent shape.
Molokini Crater is roughly 2.5 miles off the southwest coast of Maui, making it easily accessible by boat from Ma’alaea Harbor.
Visitors to Molokini Crater can enjoy various activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and wildlife viewing. The clear waters provide excellent visibility, allowing guests to explore the vibrant coral reefs and encounter a wide range of marine species.
Molokini Crater is a designated Marine Life Conservation District and a Hawaii State Seabird Sanctuary. This protection ensures the preservation of its unique marine ecosystem and bird habitat.
Molokini Crater is home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, eels, octopuses, and various species of coral. If you’re visiting Molokini during the winter, you might even see the majestic North Pacific humpback whales during their annual migration to Maui’s waters.
To visit Molokini Crater, you can book a snorkel tour or whale watching tour with Pride of Maui. Making reservations in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourism seasons. Secure your spot for an unforgettable experience with Pride of Maui. We’re looking forward to meeting you on board!
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