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Submerged volcanic crescent teeming with marine life and coral reefs, offering world-class snorkeling and scuba diving in crystal-clear waters.
General Information
Tours typically depart between 6:00am and 9:00am and return by early afternoon
Includes gear, guides, and marine conservation fees
How to Get There
From Wailea (6 mi): Drive to Kihei Boat Ramp or Maalaea Harbor, then board a permitted snorkeling tour boat to reach the crater in 20–60 minutes depending on departure point.
Overview
The Molokini Crater is a partially submerged volcanic caldera located just off the southern coast of Maui. Shaped like a crescent moon, this tiny islet is a designated Marine Life Conservation District and Hawaii State Seabird Sanctuary. Its protected inner waters offer some of the clearest snorkeling and diving conditions in the Hawaiian Islands, with visibility often exceeding 150 feet. The crater’s unique topography shelters over 250 species of fish, many of which are endemic to Hawaiʻi, as well as vibrant coral reefs and occasional sightings of manta rays and reef sharks. The outer wall of the crater drops steeply into the deep ocean, making it a favorite for advanced scuba divers.
Formed by a volcanic eruption over 230,000 years ago, Molokini has served many roles—from a fishing ground to a WWII bombing range—before being protected as a marine sanctuary. Today, access is strictly regulated, and only permitted commercial vessels may bring visitors to the site. Most tours depart early in the morning to take advantage of calm seas and optimal visibility. In addition to snorkeling, many tours include stops at nearby Turtle Town or whale watching during the winter months. With its surreal underwater landscapes and ecological importance, Molokini offers a rare and unforgettable glimpse into Hawaiʻi’s marine biodiversity.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Molokini Crater, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License
