Believed to be one of the best destinations for diving and snorkelling in the world, the Molokini Crater is home to an amazing array of local wildlife.
The Molokini Crater is a partial cinder cone formed more than 150,000 years ago following a volcanic eruption. It has been eroded over the centuries and now forms a protective crescent-shaped barrier, harbouring a coral reef packed with some of the most spectacular sea life in the locality.Local legend has it that the crescent is believed to be the tail of a giant guardian lizard who was chopped in half by the volcano goddess after crossing her in affairs of the heart. The area was an important food source until the early twentieth century, with indigenous residents fishing from the abundant schools and collecting local birds’ eggs. During the Second World War, the distinctive site was used for bomb practice by the American military. Nowadays, however, the crescent and its delicate coral form a protected nature sanctuary.Located just less than 5 kilometres off the southwest coat of Maui, Molokini is only really reachable by boat. Tours on all types of crafts from rafts to yachts leave every day from Maalaea Harbor. Glass-bottomed boats allow glimpses of the abundant fish as they shoot past, while the island itself provides a nesting ground for rare and protected bird species, such as the sea-loving Bulwer’s Petrel. Choose a calm day to avoid choppy water and leave early for a smooth crossing. Be aware that boats aren’t permitted to moor too close to the island itself, as no one is allowed to set foot on the rocky outcrop.Snorkelling and scuba diving are allowed though, with the sheltered pool created by the Molokini Crater making for an unbeatable snorkelling experience. The waters here possess an exceptional clarity for consistently excellent viewing conditions. The entire 7.2 hectares is alive with more than 250 species of animal, including turtles, reef sharks and flamboyant parrotfish. The sea life here is not as timid as usual, enabling you to get a close-up view of some of Mother Nature’s greatest gems. Why not book onto a guided diving trip and see what natural treasures are hidden beneath the waves.Molokini is possibly the greatest diving spot on the planet. No trip to Maui is complete without an outing to this intriguing outcrop in the middle of the seabed.
