Molokini Maui

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

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Bird Watching at Molokini Crater

Molokini bird watching is quite a thrill!

Bird Watching At Molokini Crater
Male Great Frigatebird in flight over Molokini Crater

The Hawaii Audubon Society’s 1980 survey of Molokini’s bird populations found large numbers of two species, the Bulwer’s petrels and the wedge-tailed shearwaters. The birds fish out on the open ocean during the day and return home to their cliff burrows after sunset to feed their young.  The eroding rock of Molokini’s high edge makes it easy for birds to carve out little nests. Just imagine – what a life – fishing all day, living without predators, and basking in the warm Hawaiian tradewinds by night with views of Maui, Moloka’i, Lana’i and Kaho’olawe islands.  One can often spot both species from the tour boat while Molokini bird watching.

Bulwer’s Petrel

Named after Scottish naturalist James Bulwer, these birds eat plankton from the surface of the ocean. A small bird, the petrel reaches lengths of 25 – 30 cm and wingspans of 80 – 90 centimeters. Bulwer’s petrels have pointed tails and long wings. They spend most of the year at sea, but breed in Hawaii, the North Pacific, and China.

Wedge-Tailed Shearwater (‘Ua’u Kani)

Shearwaters can be found across the Pacific and Indian Oceans. These birds breed off Japan, Hawai’i, Australia, and the Seychelles. Those here in Hawai’i are the pale version of the species, with grey and brown plumage and white undersides. Shearwaters evolved a set of legs far back on the body, a positioning that enables them to swim. The wedge-tailed shearwaters eat mostly fish (especially goatfish), but also snack on crustaceans and squid.

Wedge-tailed shearwaters form monogamous, marriage-like bonds for several years. If the couple do not reproduce, the relationships dissolve. The birds even make their calls together, to communicate with their offspring and to warn of predators. The birds are known for their long calls; their Hawaiian name ‘ua’u nani means moaning bird.  Look and listen for wedgies while Molokini bird watching!

Brown Booby

These birds are sexually dimorphic, meaning that the differences between males and females extend beyond the sexual organs. Males and females both reach sizes of approximately 30 inches in length. Females have longer wingspans, and weigh slightly more than males. The birds have sharp beaks, short wings, and long tails. Brown boobies are strong fliers, and use Molokini’s strong gusts to assist them in taking off from the cliff ledge. Brown boobies eat fish and squid.

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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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