Molokini Maui

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

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Coral found in the waters around Molokini

Coral polyps, algae, and sunlight are the powerhouses of every incredible reef!

Molokini coral
Seen above, colorful coral in the water surrounding Molokini Crater.

This iconic crater wouldn’t be a world famous snorkeling destination without the marine life attracted by the expansive reef.  We celebrate and describe the different species of coral found at Molokini below.  With every storm Molokini faces, big waves break the coral within the inner core of the crater, creating space for new habitat.

Rice Coral (Montipora capitata)
Looks like tiny granules of rice. Every summer, the rice coral on Molokini spawns. Thousands of pink beads of eggs and sperm rise to the surface and mix together. The coral release these bundles when the moon is new.

Mushroom Coral

Spreading Coral (Montipora patula)

Black Coral

In the dark spots of Molokini’s back wall, black coral provides a home to gobies, oysters, and long-nose hawkfish.

Red Pencil Urchin

The red pencil urchin is a stunning site for divers to see, an abstract sculpture of orangish red that stands out amidst the blue and rainbow-colored coral. Although this animal is not poisonous, it is recommended that snorkelers do not touch the urchin, as it is fragile. The red pencil urchin survives by eating algae. These beautiful creatures can be found in the surge zone along the outer rim, where the shallow water lets in a lot of sunshine and algae is abundant.

Cauliflower Coral

Toughest of the coral species; they have to be, to deal with the constant wave activity

Stubby and flat, unlike the long finger coral that would break easily in this area

Home to shrimps and crabs

Every spring, cauliflower coral on Molokini spawns several times. The coral spawn in synchronicity, at a precise time right after sunrise. This increases the probability of successful fertilization. The coral release billows of eggs and sperm that appear as clouds of smoke; the clear water becomes milky in just a few minutes, so much so that there is no longer any visibility at all.

Orange Cup Coral

Under the ledges of the wall of Molokini, the orange cup coral flourish in colonies. When the current is running, they gather plankton with their tentacles.

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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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