Maui boasts many incredible snorkel spots that are easy to access from the shoreline, each offering its own charm and marine life. But to experience the island’s premier snorkeling where visibility is exceptional and reefs are at their healthiest, you’ll want to join a tour boat to Molokini and Turtle Arches. These offshore sites provide calm, crystal‑clear waters, abundant marine life, and a level of snorkel quality you won’t find along the shoreline.
Know before you go: Help protect Hawai‘i’s wildlife by following these safety guidelines.
MOLOKINI
As soon as you duck your head underwater at Molokini, you realize you’re in for a world-class snorkel experience. Butterflyfish, triggerfish, parrotfish and 250 other species of fish surround you in crystal clear water. If you're lucky, you will spot a white-tipped reef shark or manta ray, or even one of Hawaiʻi’s critically endangered monk seals. (Pro tip: give the reef most of your attention, but occasionally look out into the deeper blue water. You'll have 150-foot visibility, and might just spot some of the larger pelagic fish).
The remains of an ancient volcanic cone, Molokini forms a crescent shape in the ‘Alalākeiki Channel between Maui and Kahoʻolawe. The crescent protects the snorkel area from the strong currents of the channel. The reef is a protected conservation area, and can only be accessed by boats run by tour operators. Wedge-tailed shearwaters and Bulwer’s petrels nest on the crescent, and ʻiwa, or frigate birds, are often present.
According to Hawaiian myths, Molokini was a mo`o—a lizard who could take on the shape of a beautiful woman. Molokini fell in love with a handsome man, but the volcano goddess Pele was a rival for his affections. Pele, known for her temper, cut Molokini in two and turned the unlucky mo`o into stone. The Molokini crater is said to be Molokini’s tail, and her head is Pu’u Ola’i, the cinder cone by Makena Beach.
Turtle Town
After snorkeling Molokini, many tour operators stop for a second snorkel at Turtle Town. Turtle Town is a series of underwater arch formations covers with algae, an important part of the Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu) diet.
Honu are a protected species, so do not chase, touch or harass them. Turtles are inquisitive and often approach snorkelers to check them out. Hang out quietly on the surface gives you the best chance of attracting a curious turtle.