Located off the coast of Maui sits a geologic attraction, formed by a volcanic eruption millions of years ago. While it’s hard to fathom the history of Molokini Crater, this marine wonderland is now a site that attracts divers, snorkelers, and nature enthusiasts from around the globe. The only way to get to the crater is by boat.
The submerged volcanic cone not only holds a rich history of the geology of the area, but it also is home to an abundance of marine life. The calm waters around the crater make it a special spot to snorkel, swim, and experience the magic of Maui.
Geological and Historical Significance
Molokini Crater was formed millions of years ago when a volcanic eruption created a horseshoe-shaped caldera. A caldera is a large depression that forms when a volcano erupts and its magma chamber collapses. Throughout the years, erosion has filled the interior of the crater, leaving a shallow, sheltered bay. This unique geological formation provides a protected environment for marine life to thrive in only about 150-feet of water.
Historically, Molokini Crater has served as a significant cultural and spiritual site for Native Hawaiians. Considered a sacred place, the waters around the crater were believed to have healing properties, and in ancient Hawaiian mythology, it was associated with the goddess of fire, volcanoes, and transformation, Pele.
Marine Life at Molokini Crater
The crater is known as a wonderful spot to snorkel and the reason is its incredible marine life. Beneath the waves around Molokini Crater are amazing coral reefs, a rich habitat for marine life like butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, sea turtles, manta rays, and so much more. Not only do the coral reefs provide a stable environment for these marine creatures to thrive, but the nutrient-rich conditions allow for plenty of plankton to grow, a main source of food for these fish and other marine life.
Popular Activities at Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater is largely known for its underwater activities, due to its protected marine environment. But if you aren’t one to get in the water and explore life beneath the waves, there’s plenty to do on the surface.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling at Molokini Crater is an unforgettable experience for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Molokini Crater’s sheltered bay provides calm and clear waters, making it ideal for seeing the diverse marine species and coral reefs that call these waters home. There are plenty of tours that operate around Molokini Crater that provide transportation, snorkeling equipment, and a guide. (If you snorkel at Molokini Crater, please use reef-safe sunscreen to protect our beautiful reefs.)
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
Glass-bottom boat tours offer a fantastic way to experience the underwater wonders of Molokini Crater without getting wet. These tours are perfect if you’re uncomfortable snorkeling, or if you have young children with you. The glass panels in the bottom of the boat allow you to see the tropical fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs directly under the surface.
Other Activities
There are other activities you can enjoy while at Molokini Crater, including scuba diving, whale watching, or lounging on the shore. Depending on your preference, we recommend looking into reputable companies where you can get equipment or find tours.
Best Time to Visit Molokini Crater
While you can visit the crater year-round, the best time to visit typically falls between December and April. The weather is typically nicer and the waters are likely more clear and calm.
How to Get There
The only way to reach the crater is to get there by boat and the ride usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes. There are a number of operators in Maui that you can book either online or through your hotel, and most tours leave from Maui’s south coast, near Mākena or Wailea.
Conservation Efforts and Visitor Responsibility
Molokini Crater is a protected marine sanctuary, and it’s important to be mindful of conservation efforts and visitor responsibilities. As a visitor, please:
- Avoid engaging in activities in restricted or prohibited areas to protect marine life.
- Avoid touching, disturbing, or feeding marine animals.
- Minimize your impact by avoiding harmful practices, like leaving trash.
- Support conservation efforts of agencies by following these important guidelines.
We love Molokini Crater and think it is definitely something to do during your time on Maui. But when you’re done, come by and see us at the Maui Ocean Center. We not only have amazing marine life to see, but you can also dine and shop with no aquarium ticket required. Reserve your tickets today.
When traveling to Maui there will never be a shortage of things and places to see. Make sure you’re always abiding by local and cultural laws when exploring the natural beauty of Maui and most importantly, relax! That’s what you came to do after all.
