Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater from above on Maui, Hawaii
Molokini Crater from above on Maui, Hawaii

Molokini Crater Tours and Tickets

10,608 reviews

When was the last time you had a snorkel adventure inside of a sunken Hawaiian volcano, or enjoyed a freshly cooked BBQ lunch on the deck of a sailing catamaran? Thanks to its calm, crystal clear waters, bright coral reef, and 250-plus species of tropical fish, Molokini Crater is the most popular spot for snorkeling tours on Maui. Spend a day on a snorkeling tour as you explore the protected marine preserve and come face-to-face with some of Hawaii's most colorful marine life.

  • Maui, Hawaii, 96708

Tours and Tickets to Experience Molokini Crater

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What are people saying about Molokini Crater

Sue_C, Aug 2023
Could be the best activity we did on Maui
When you jump off the back of the boat, you feel like you are in a crystal clear water aquarium with an amazing number of fish and sea creatures. I also enjoyed looking at the birds on Molokini. It was amazing!! The crew of the Getaway were friendly and helpful and ensured our safety.
Melissa_G, Nov 2023
Great Day on the Pride of Maui
The Pride of Maui to the Molokini Crater and Turtle Town was awesome. The boat was very large, even had a sliding board. The staff were very personable, and the food and drinks were great. The snorkeling was perfect. Saw lots of beautiful fish and even a few turtles. We will definitely go on this trip again. Thank you for your hospitality.
James_G, Nov 2023
Well irganized
Visibility was great. The crew was excellent and a pleasure to talk with. Snuba was an unexpected pleasure; really a great initial experience. I would have preferred a smaller boat and fewer people. The website led me to believe the boat was experiences more intimate. The Jamaican music was lame and silly when we could have been listening to real Hawaiian music. The experience was very well organized and worth every penny.
Kim_H, Nov 2023
Awesome experience!
This was a wonderful way to spend the morning in Maui! The crew was very informative and accommodating. Great snorkeling! The turtles swam right next to us. We were able to see dolphins and whales as well which was incredible!! The crew really worked to make it a special experience!
People Also Ask
Q:Are there sharks in Molokini Crater?
A:Yes, simply because Molokini Crater is in the ocean and sharks are present in the ocean. However, you are very unlikely to see one. That’s because the most common species at Molokini Crater is the white tip reef shark which hunts at night and spends most of its day in caves.
Q:Can you climb Molokini Crater?
A:No, you cannot climb Molokini Crater. Molokini Crater is a protected marine sanctuary. Therefore visitors may not set foot on it without express permission from both the United States Coast Guard and the state of Hawaii's Division of Forestry and Wildlife. Expect to receive a very hefty fine if you do.
Q:Is it safe to snorkel at Molokini Crater?
A:Yes, it is safe to snorkel at Molokini Crater. If you want to snorkel in Molokini Crater, you must visit with a licensed tour company. These companies have permits to provide snorkeling tours have a lifeguard in the water. Besides, the high crater protects snorkelers from swells in most directions.
Q:How do you get to Molokini Crater?
A:As it is a protected marine sanctuary, you can only visit Molokini Crater as part of a tour. Snorkeling and diving tours depart from nearby Maalaea Harbor, Kihei Boat ramp, Maluaka Beach, and Lahaina Harbor on Maui. Don't even think about trying to swim or kayak: the currents will likely take you far away.
Q:How long is the boat ride to Molokini Crater?
A:How long it takes to get to Molokini Crater depends on which Maui harbor you depart from. From Maalaea Harbor, it’ll take around an hour. From Kihei Boat ramp or Maluaka Beach, it’ll take less than 30 minutes. From Lahaina, it’s a journey of more than an hour, so it’s a good idea to drive to a closer harbor.
Q:How far is Molokini Crater from Maui?
A:Molokini Crater is three miles off Maui’s southwestern coast, from where most boat tours depart. From Lahaina, it’s around nine miles away. While that may sound like an easy distance to cover, dangerously strong currents mean that you should not attempt to swim or paddle there.
Q:Is it worth going to Molokini Crater?
A:Yes, it is worth going to Molokini Crater. The partially submerged crater is a spectacular sight and offers some of the best snorkeling experiences in the Hawaiian Islands. It's possible to see more than 250 species of fish, including manta rays, plus birds, mammals, and dozens of coral types.
Q:What is the best time of year to snorkel Molokini Crater?
A:You can snorkel in Molokini Crater year-round, but it is best during the drier months from May through September when the water is typically clearer. Whenever you visit, it is best to get there early in the morning when the water is at its calmest and clearest.
Q:What do you wear to snorkel Molokini Crater?
A:Wear your typical swimsuit to snorkel in Molokini Crater: There is no need for a wetsuit or any special attire. You should also bring a towel, reef-friendly sunscreen, and a change of clothes if you want to change after you snorkel.
Q:Do I need reservations for Molokini Crater?
A:Yes, you must make a reservation because you will need to book a tour of Molokini Crater. The crater is accessible only by water, so unless you have your own boat, you'll need to go on a tour. Attempting to swim or paddle there is extremely dangerous.