Molokini Crater is home to an incredibly diverse ecosystem, with over 250 species of marine life and 38 documented coral species. Because the area is a protected sanctuary, the fish here are less skittish than in other Maui locations, allowing for intimate viewing experiences.
Yellow Tangs are the "sunshine" of the reef, easily spotted in bright schools. You'll also see many varieties of Butterflyfish, including the Raccoon and Ornate Butterflyfish, recognizable by their intricate patterns.
Hawaii's state fish, the Reef Triggerfish, is a frequent resident of Molokini. Look for its distinctive "painted" appearance and shy behavior.
Graceful, thin fish with long dorsal fins and striking black, white, and yellow stripes. They are often seen in pairs along the coral heads.
While Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu) are more abundant at "Turtle Town," they are frequently spotted resting or swimming near the edges of Molokini. Manta Rays and Spotted Eagle Rays are also occasional visitors, gliding majestically through the deeper portions of the crater.
Lucky snorkelers might encounter Whitetip Reef Sharks (usually resting on the bottom), Moray Eels peeking out from coral crevices, or even the massive Whale Shark during the summer months. During the winter, Humpback Whales can often be heard "singing" underwater, though they stay well outside the crater rim.
The foundation of life at Molokini is its 38 species of hard coral. These are living, breathing organisms that grow only millimeters per year. The varieties here—including Cauliflower, Finger, and Lobe coral—provide the structure and food that support the hundreds of fish species you see.
Never touch the coral. Even the slightest contact from a hand or fin can kill the polyps and destroy decades of growth. Use reef-safe sunscreen to prevent chemical bleaching of the reef.