Things to do nearMolokini
Molokini is a partially submerged volcanic crater off the coast of Maui, Hawaii, celebrated for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life.
Molokini Crater is the eroded rim of a volcanic cone that last erupted thousands of years ago, leaving behind a distinctive crescent shape that now shelters one of the most visited snorkel and dive sites in the Hawaiian Islands. The crater sits within a State Marine Life Conservation District, meaning fishing and the collection of any marine organisms are strictly prohibited, which has allowed its reef ecosystem to remain remarkably intact over decades of visitation.
The shallow inner basin, ranging from roughly 10 to 40 feet in depth, is ideal for snorkelers of most skill levels. Colorful parrotfish, Moorish idols, and dense schools of goatfish move freely through the coral gardens, largely unbothered by the steady stream of visitors. For certified divers, the outer back wall plunges dramatically to depths well beyond recreational limits, where hammerhead sharks and manta rays have been spotted on fortunate dives.
Most visitors reach Molokini by joining a morning snorkel cruise departing from Maalaea Harbor or Kihei Boat Ramp on Maui. Trips typically combine time at the crater with a second stop along the Maui coastline, often at Turtle Town near Makena, where Hawaiian green sea turtles rest on submerged lava formations. Onboard naturalists on many boats offer context about the crater's geology and the species you are likely to encounter.
Molokini rewards visitors with a concentrated, accessible encounter with Hawaii's marine environment that is difficult to replicate elsewhere in the islands, making it a centerpiece of any Maui itinerary focused on the ocean.
7-day forecast
Chance of rainTips for visiting Molokini
Visit during the morning hours, ideally before 9 a.m., when winds are calm and visibility tends to be at its clearest.
Bring a wetsuit or rashguard even in summer, as the water inside the crater can feel cooler than expected once you are in the shade of the walls.
Try snorkeling along the back wall of Molokini on a guided dive trip, where deeper, more dramatic drop-offs attract larger pelagic species.
Pack seasickness remedies if you are prone to motion sickness, as the open-water crossing from Maalaea Harbor or Kihei can be choppy in the afternoon.
Look for humuhumunukunukuapuaa, Hawaii's state fish, darting among the coral heads in the shallower sections of the crater floor.
Top tours & experiences near Molokini
Sunset Dinner & Cocktail Cruise from Ma'alaea Harbor
Sail into sunset views with island music and drinks on a 55-foot catamaran
Private Road to Hana Tour From Maui
Build your own Road to Hana day with a private guide and luxury SUV
3-Hour Yacht Charter in Maalaea
Private snorkeling and coastal cruising with captain and crew
Molokini Crater & Turtle Town Raft Snorkeling From Kihei
Snorkel Maui reefs with crew-fitted gear and lunch included
Self-Guided Haleakala Downhill Bike Tour
Ride from Haleakala Ranch through switchbacks and Maui upcountry towns at your own pace
5-Hour Private Yacht Charter From Maalaea
Customize a private Maui yacht day with snorkeling, sightseeing and shore access
Snorkel & Sightsee on a Private Maui Charter
Private Maui yacht charter for up to 6 with breakfast, lunch, and snorkel time
Sunset Yacht Charter in Maui
A private Maui sunset cruise with coastal views, cold drinks, and room to relax
Molokini Crater Late-Morning Snorkel by Raft from Kihei
Snorkel Molokini's reefs on a late-morning raft trip
Private Molokini & Turtle Town Snorkeling Charter
Set your own pace on a private Maui snorkeling outing
Sunset Sailing Cruise in Maui
2-hour Maui sunset sail with live music, menu, and open bar
Molokini Crater 2-Site Dive & Snorkel Cruise
Share a two-site ocean outing for divers, snorkelers, and passengers
Kihei Humpback Whale Watching Cruise
Search South Maui waters for humpback whales with an informative crew aboard a custom adventure boat
Dive Molokini Backwall & Carthaginian Wreck From Lahaina
Two-tank advanced dive to Molokini Backwall and the Carthaginian wreck
Molokini Afternoon Mai Tai Snorkel Cruise
Snorkel Molokini or a top alternate reef with Mai Tais, pupus, and premium gear
Molokini Snorkel & Whale Watch Cruise in Maui
Snorkel Molokini and watch for humpback whales on a 2.5-hour rafting tour
6-Hour Maui Scuba & Snorkel Cruise
Dive Molokini in small groups, with guided snorkeling for companions
Dive Molokini Backwall Drift Dive From Kihei
Take on Molokini’s Backwall with 2 advanced drift dives
Maui Whale Watch Adventure on Reef Explorer
Experience up-close whale behavior on a small-group, ultra-stable 60 ft Super Raft in Maui’s humpback sanctuary
Morning Molokini Snorkel Cruise From Maui
Small-group morning cruise to Molokini with guided snorkel tour
Electric Tankless Dive Gear Rental in Kihei, Maui
Explore beneath Maui’s waves without tanks or heavy dive equipment
Afternoon Whale Watching Cruise in Kihei
Private south-shore whale watching with expert narration and crew photos
Private Luxury Yacht Charter in Maalaea, Maui
Make the yacht your own, with whale watching and an optional coastal snorkel