Molokini Crater (Inside)
Also known as: Molokini
Best time to dive
January to December
What you might see
- DolphinPossible
- Eagle rayLikely
- Grey reef sharkLikely
- Manta rayPossible
- Sea turtleLikely
Sightings are seasonal probabilities, not promises - even in peak season nature does its own thing.
Certification & difficulty
Advanced Open Water - advanced conditions (currents/depth); dive within your training.
Snorkelling
Snorkel-friendly - Yes - Molokini's interior is one of Hawaii's most famous snorkel destinations; calm, clear, shallow, no overhead environment; morning trips recommended before wind/chop builds
Safety notes
Current pickup near Reef's End tip; heavy boat/mooring traffic (300,000+ visitors/year per Wikipedia, prompted 2019 proposal to reduce moorings); MLCD rules prohibit touching/collecting marine life and feeding fish; humpback whale 100-yard federal approach law Dec 15-Apr 15; monk seals protected
Permits & fees
No permit needed for recreational visitors; commercial operators require the Molokini Shoal MLCD Use Permit (DLNR DAR Maui office, $50 fee, HAR 13-31); anchoring prohibited where day-use moorings exist - boats must use fixed moorings
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Location
Nearest hub: Kihei/Maalaea
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand dive report. Coordinates are approximate.