Molokini Maui

Molokini Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Marine Life, History and More!

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Relics of Ancient Hawaii

Ancient Hawaiian relics have been found underwater at Molokini.

Molokini provided an excellent resource for Hawaiians, who used to fish its calm morning waters with nets made of ‘olona, firebrand, and stone sinkers. Divers can sometimes still find old sinker stones.  These ancient Hawaiian relics are the size of one’s hand and shaped like coffee beans. Hawaiian fishermen also used to chew bits of the kukui nut and spread them over the sea to make the water clear and glassy.  This enabled them to see what was going on beneath the surface. Hawaiians’ ingenious fishing methods were not limited to nets, baits, and nuts, but even included the use of medicinal plants that temporarily poisoned fish and made them float to the surface. Imagine, such a simple method of harvesting fish that was safe for human consumption!

Other ancient Hawaiian relics from old fishing days may be spotted by divers in the waters of Molokini. If snorkelers or scuba divers find large, smooth stones that look like they have been worn soft by waves, these were brought in by Hawaiians for a fishing practice known as palu (chum). The palu was a bait mixture of ground fish, octopus ink, and plants. The palu was tied to a hook and wrapped in a coconut leaf, attached to the stone, and dropped into the sea. The fisherman then yanked the cord, opening the package of palu down current.  This practice attracted bigger fish to the area than would have otherwise been nearby.

Other ancient Hawaiian relics to look out for are the teardrop sinker stones known as pohakialoa (long stone), which were up to 10 inches in length. These stones have been spotted up to depths of 180 feet by divers off of the island of Molokai.6

Molokini - Hawaiian stone sinker relic


6Severns & Fiene, 24

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Snorkel Gear Rentals

Snorkel Gear Rentals

Deluxe Maui Snorkel Rentals Set Includes 1 Top Quality Silicone Mask This premium silicone mask features a 100% silicone skirt with tempered glass lenses. The … Rent your snorkel gear. Click here.

Maui Activities

Maui Activities

Maui activities are - plain and simple - endless fun! In addition to a visit to Molokini, you will find a variety of fantastic Maui activities. Whether you like flying through the air, hiking rugged trails, biking down … Read More

Molokini Snorkeling Aboard The Malolo!

Molokini Snorkeling Aboard The Malolo!

Most Molokini snorkeling tours include a stop at Turtle Town. Join us on our awesome Molokini and Turtle Town snorkeling adventure aboard Malolo. Malolo is a 55 foot comfortable, stable catamaran. She is equipped … Read More

Molokini Fish

Molokini Fish

MOLOKINI FISH Moorish Idol (Kihikihi) The popular and striking kihikihi is marked by its contrast of black and bright yellow bands. These speedy swimmers love the coral reef of Molokini and can be found alone or in … Read More

Turtle Town

Turtle Town

Turtle Town is an amazing snorkeling destination off the south coast of Maui. Here, sea turtles spend time resting, feeding, and gliding through turquoise waters. You are almost guaranteed to see at … Read More

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