Aloha !
Just like going abroad or flying first class, snorkeling at Molokini is something everybody should do at least once. Why? Because while Maui is home to excellent snorkeling spots at every turn, few are as wondrous as Molokini.
Molokini was formed during a volcanic eruption about 230,000 years ago. The islet's crescent shape keeps waters protected, creating an ideal habitat for coral reefs. Today, a garden of coral covers Molokini's seafloor like a colorful rug.
Situated roughly two miles off the South Maui coast, Molokini is only accessible by boat— and that's part of the crater's allure. Snorkeling in an ancient volcanic caldera in the middle of the ocean is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Wondering how you can make an awesome Molokini day trip happen in 2023? Here's all you need to know.
Getting to Molokini ⛵️
Ma'alaea Harbor
Most Molokini snorkel tours depart out of Ma'alaea Harbor. Ma'alaea is located between Kihei and Lahaina, making it a convenient launch point for Molokini tours.
The ride from Ma'alaea to the crater takes about an hour. Most tours leave early in the morning when the seas are nice and calm, so you can enjoy views of the sun rising behind Haleakala Crater.
There are a ton of different boats to choose from at Maalaea Harbor, from luxe catamarans to family-friendly vessels.
Note: Staying near Lahaina? Ma'alaea Harbor will be the closest point of departure to Molokini Crater. Snorkel tours from Lahaina Harbor usually visit other destinations, like Olowalu and Lanai.
Kihei Boat Ramp
If you're staying in Kihei, consider taking a snorkel tour departing from Kihei Boat Ramp. Kihei Boat Ramp is located in the heart of South Kihei (between Kamaole III Beach and the Mana Kai and Kihei Surfside area). The journey from the ramp to Molokini only takes about 15-20 minutes.
A small number of rafting tours depart from Kihei Boat Ramp. Since the ramp is just a landing and not a harbor, large vessels can't depart from here. If you're up for an adventure, rafting tours can be a lot of fun.
Maluaka Beach
Kai Kanani moors at Maluaka Beach in Makena and is the only sailing catamaran in South Maui to offer beach loading. Molokini snorkel tours are offered daily, and you can choose between a sunrise snorkel or a mid-morning snorkel. Kai Kanani is known for providing a top-tier experience, making this excursion a great option for visitors staying in Wailea and Makena. (Pssst, better yet, you can book an awesome sail on Kai Kanani through us!)
What to Pack 🎒
Good news! Most Molokini snorkel tours provide guests with snorkel gear, including masks, snorkels, fins, and flotation devices. This way, you don't have to lug pre-purchased or rented gear onboard with you.
Another bonus: most tours provide breakfast, lunch, and beverages. Big tour boats will often serve continental breakfasts and grill up a hot, fresh lunch for guests. There is usually a full bar offered as well. Smaller boats typically serve deli-style lunches and non-alcoholic beverages. It's best to check with the company you're interested in to confirm what they offer.
Regardless of what company you choose, you're expected to bring a towel, swimwear, dry clothes to change into, and sun protection. This includes a UV shirt, hat, and mineral sunscreen. Mineral sunscreen is a must, as some boats won't allow the use of non-mineral sunscreen. This is because non-mineral sunscreen can harm the reef, so keep things reef safe by bringing sunscreen that only contains non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Some boats have reef-safe mineral sunscreen available for purchase on board.
Lastly, don't forget to bring along a GoPro or other underwater camera to document your adventure! Some boats provide GoPro rentals as well.
What to Expect 🐠
If you've never experienced Molokini Crater before, here are a few things you should know:
- Visibility at Molokini Crater can reach upwards of 100 feet, which is why snorkeling is excellent here.
- You'll be snorkeling in water 10 to 30 feet deep.
- Sharks aren't much of a worry at Molokini Crater, although you might spot a small reef shark if you're lucky.
- You'll mostly see a ton of tropical fish, lots of corals, and potentially some eels and octopus as well.
- Sometimes inclement weather precludes tours from visiting the crater. This decision is made at the captain's discretion.
- You can't step foot on Molokini. The crater is also a bird sanctuary, and coming ashore on the islet could result in some serious fines.
Ready to experience the magic of Molokini Crater in 2023?! We're here to help make it happen. Not only is Ali'i Resorts a fantastic resource for Maui vacation rentals, but you can also book car rentals and activities (like top-rated Molokini tours) directly with us. Here's to making more Maui memories in 2023!
Warmest Aloha,
The Ali'i Resorts Ohana
