Molokini Maui

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

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Molokini Geological History

How was this unique shoal created? Geological history will tell us!

Molokini Crater – a small crescent of land 2/5 of a mile long, extends 310 feet underwater and 160 feet above the surface, and was formed in the midst of volcanic eruptions in the Maui Nui Basin. As the Pacific plate passed over Earth’s hot spot and created Haleakala’s southwest rift zone, hot lava erupted under cool water, creating steam explosions that added to the force of the eruptions.  The steam broke apart the lava just released, making room for even more to flow upward into the Pacific.  Ocean and new land combined to make geological history, and Molokini Crater was born.  (For the birth of Molokini in Hawaiian legend, check out our Oral History page!)

Because this particular lava flow occurred underwater, it cooled very quickly – before crystals had time to form – so a lot of it turned into volcanic glass.  Volcanic glass breaks down into a dark yellow clay, and that is why Molokini is shaded very differently from the reddish volcanic cinder cones you’ll find on land.  At its height, Molokini’s peak may have been 500 feet above sea level.  Years of rain and wind have eroded the rim.  Once the north rim “sank” below sea level, the ocean streamed into the crater.  In time, a coral reef grew within.

The south rim of Molokini remains above sea level, and the open ocean side (also known as the back side) of it is a spectacular site to scuba dive.   The erosion of rain and wind have allowed birds to carve out seats in the cliff, so this is also a great place for bird watchers!

The joint scientific studies of Yoshimoto Nishimitsu – then a graduate student at Kyoto University – and scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory estimated the crater’s age at 230,000 years old.1

Molokini Crater geological history
Red hot lava from a Hawaiian volcano flows through lava tubes and pours like rivers into the ocean, bringing up clouds of steam and toxic gas, creating acres of lava rock, and adding new land to the island.

1 http://hvo.wr.usgs.gov/volcanowatch/archive/2001/01_02_08.html (Feb. 2001).

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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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