Why Snorkelers Love Molokini Crater

Maui is a top destination for nature and beach lovers worldwide. The stunning Kaanapali Beach and Honolua Bay are located here. The picturesque Hana Highway leads to Baldwin Beach Park and the Haleakala Crater Hike.

As if Maui were not gorgeous enough, there is also the world-famous Molokini Crater, which lies in the ocean 2.5 miles from the Maui Makena coastline. Molokini is a snorkeler’s paradise. Its crescent shape alone allures visitors to explore its colorful underwater world and top-of-the-crater birdlife. 

Not to mention, Molokini coral is found nowhere else on Earth, and there are more than 250 unique species to admire. 

Underwater Exploration Gets New Meaning at Molokini Crater

Molokini lies between Maui and Kahoolawe within Maui County. The crater is what remains of a Pleistocene epoch volcano. This is one of seven volcanoes that formed a prehistoric island called Maui Nui. This island existed during the Cenozoic Era. 

Molokini’s half-moon shape makes it a premier destination for snorkelers and divers. It protects against powerful currents from the Alalakeiki channel, making it a safe spot for snorkeling and diving. 

Molokini Boasts an Incredible History

This crescent also has a rich history. Apart from being around 230,000 years old, it is believed that early Hawaiians used Molokini as a base for fishing.

During the Second World War, the U.S. Navy used Molokini for target practice. Unfortunately, this islet’s southwest rim was damaged because of this. And, because the Navy also detonated unexploded munitions here, they destroy large masses of coral. 

In 1977, the crater and islet were declared a Marine Life Conservation District to protect them from further damage. As a result, visitors can only admire the birds and marine life under strict rules today. 

Snorkeling at Molokini Crater Is Safer Than Snorkeling from the Shore

Snorkelers love Molokini because of its beauty and sea life and because it is safe to snorkel in its waters. When commercial vessels drop anchor, a lifeguard is in the water during snorkeling. 

Moreover, all commercial vessels obtain a permit before they are allowed to moor at the crater. This means their safety measures are of the highest standards. 

There is also excellent visibility at Molokini, more so than anywhere else on the island. Good visibility is a must for safe snorkeling. 

The Molokini Back Wall is also hugely popular with scuba divers because of its dramatic 300-foot drop. However, because of the up-and-downwelling, this dive site should only be visited by highly experienced divers. 

Molokini Attracts a Variety of Sharks

Most people snorkel to see marine life in their natural habitat. They want to experience the bursts of color in the coral reefs and get close to the ocean’s bigger fish, such as sharks. 

Molokini attracts several shark species, including whitetip reef sharks. These fish are sometimes spotted during the day when they are not resting in caves. Unlike other sharks, whitetips do not have to keep moving to breathe. They pump water across their gills to allow them to rest in one place. 

Whitetips swim along the Molokini reef at night to feed on other fish, crustaceans, and octopuses. There is no need to fear whitetip sharks because they are not aggressive. But they may swim closer because of sheer curiosity. 

Snorkelers and divers may also encounter whale sharks at Molokini. They are the world’s largest living fish and can grow up to 60 feet long. Sightings are rare, but divers and snorkelers have spotted whale sharks inside the crater around twenty feet below sea level.

Grey reef sharks also visit Molokini occasionally to feed on fish near the reef ledge. When snorkeling in Molokini, it is important to give grey reef sharks a wide berth to ensure you safety. They may be dangerous if they feel threatened or provoked. 

Molokini Is a Bird-Watching Haven

Molokini Crater is about more than just what happens under the sea. While on a tour boat, snorkelers and divers can do a little bird-watching before entering the water. Bulwer’s petrels and wedge-tailed shearwaters have a home here. There are also brown boobies who use the winds at Molokini to take off from the cliff ledge. 

Molokini Is Not Far from Turtle Town

Many snorkelers go to Molokini hoping to see green sea turtles in the water within the crescent, but they are almost always disappointed. It is rare for these turtles to venture into the crater. But this does not mean that going to Maui to see sea turtles is in vain. 

The lovely Turtle Town (Maluaka Beach) is near the crater. The water off the southern end of Maluaka is incredibly clear, which means snorkeling and sea turtle sightings are in order. If you go to Turtle Town for snorkeling, you will also see trumpet fish, triggerfish, parrot fish, and butterfly fish. Of course, you’re also likely to spot green sea turtles. 

You can also visit Coral Gardens, an untouched reef that lies below the cliffs along the Honoapi’ilani Highway. Here, you can find several coral reefs, tropical fish, and even more green sea turtles. 

Molokini Caters to Beginners and Experienced Snorkelers

Except for Molokini’s Back Wall, the crater is suitable for beginners, experienced snorkelers, and divers. The calm waters are ideal for beginners who want to take things slow when going underwater for the first time. 

Moreover, the shallow areas of the crater wall offer vibrant coral reefs and several different fish species. Those who are more experienced have deeper sections to explore where they may spot larger fish species. 

Guided snorkeling tours are readily available for tourists who want to experience Molokini. Tour guides and lifeguards help keep everyone safe on the boats and below the water. 

Molokini Is the Ultimate Snorkeling Destination

The best time to visit Molokini is generally between May and September, but the weather is great all year round for snorkeling and diving. Molokini Crater offers an unforgettable experience for young and old and a chance to see various marine creatures in their natural habitat. It’s an excellent destination for fun family vacations.

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