Maui Molokini Snorkel

Maui Molokini Snorkel legend

 

Regardless of legend, those interested in Maui Molokini snorkel will find one of the world’s best dive locations with water clarity reaching up to 150 feet in the center of the crater. Visitors and tourists are not allowed to walk on the island and no marine life may be removed, caught, or even fed. This is because Molokini is a marine life conservation district.

 

Maui Molokini Snorkel Background

 

The summit of Molokini is approximately 160 feet above sea level and scientists from the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory estimate its last eruption was somewhere around 230,000 years ago. The Maui Molokini snorkel islet is within the southwest Haleakala’s rift zone. Many geologists were under the impression that Molokini was actually quite young as far as volcanic formations go. However, new evidence suggests that it may be older.

Maui Molokini Snorkel Conditions

The Mauai Molokini snorkel conditions change on a daily basis and water temperatures vary depending on season. Year round the water within the crater is calm as it is shielded from currents and strong waves. The water within the crater is substantially cooler than the water found along the beaches. The water ranges from 72 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Every day of the year the visibility within the crater is excellent and ranges from 90 -100 feet. Places within the crater’s center may have up to 150 feet of visibility. Maui Molokini snorkel conditions are best in the morning hours because the trade winds are higher in the afternoons.

Maui Molokini Snorkel Levels

Maui Molokini snorkel levels vary from beginners to advanced divers. The basin of the crater is the perfect place for beginner divers and snorkelers to learn and practice as it is only 35 feet deep with amazing visibility. Maui Molokini snorkel options for the intermediate diver include the underwater wall that has depths up to 70 feet. Experienced SCUBA divers and snorkelers will appreciate the Maui Molokini snorkel conditions on the crater’s back side that sink down hundreds of feet.

Molokini Fish Species

Regardless of what level of Maui Molokini snorkel options you choose the visibility is always outstanding as is the exposure to sea life. More than 250 fish species call the Molokini crater home, which provides a colorful and awe inspiring experience for Maui Molokini snorkelers of all levels. Some of the fish within the crater include Moorish idols, parrot fish, surgeon fish, and tangs.