If your into snorkeling or scuba diving Molikini is one of Maui's great treasures. It is located off of Maui's southern beaches and is a volcano crater half in the water and half out of the water. It is a Marine sancuary under water and a bird refuge above water.
Many boats go out there daily with tourists ready to view the this underwater phenomenon. The visibility is usually 100-200 feet in the morning but becomes worse as the tradewinds pick up in the afternoon. The depth ranges from 5-50 feet inside the crater with the backside of molikini being a vertical wall, depth of about 350 feet.
Fish and coral are in abundance throughout Molikini and if your lucky you might see one of the white tip reef sharks. Remember it is a marine santuary so it is illegal to remove coral or fish.This keeps the marine life very friendly. Fish will actually eat out of your hands. If you do decide to feed the fish, most dive shops offer a fish food sold in a bag to bring with you.
Some boats bring you to a 2nd spot known as Turtle town, and here you can have the unique opportunity to swim with giant sea turtles. This is the best way to do the trip, that way you experience 2 sights. The Lavengro is a great sailboat that visits both of these spots and provides complimentary food and beverages during your excursion. The Lavengro is a 60 foot schooner with a crew that was very hospitable, informative and friendly. Rachel and I had a great time on this boat and look forward to a going out again.
If your time is limited or the boat you take to Molikini does not go to turtletown, you can get there by going to the beach at The Maui Prince Hotel in Makena. If your facing the water go to the end of the beach on your left side, swim out along the reef about 100-150 yards. The depth will range from 15-30 feet with a rocky coral bottom. Turtles will be swimming all around the area coming up for air and basking occasionally on top of the water. You can free-dive to get more views of them hanging out under the ledges. The turtles are endangered so it is illegal to touch or harass them in any way other than viewing them.
If your a little hesitant about swimming out to the correct location, go to the beach between 8:00am-11:00am. Boats will be bringing guests to turtletown. When you see people getting in the water, you'll know where to swim out to.
If your into snorkeling or scuba diving Molikini is one of Maui's great treasures. It is located off of Maui's southern beaches and is a volcano crater half in the water and half out of the water. It is a Marine sancuary under water and a bird refuge above water.
