Creating a perfect crescent shape in the sea, the sunken Molokini Crater is a snorkeling wonderland just offshore from Maui.
Dubbed among the world’s top 10 diving locations, Molokini is prized by underwater enthusiasts for its protected reef, crystal-clear visibility and schools of tropical fish.
The crater is also a favorite with birdwatchers, who come here to spot seabirds like petrels and shearwaters.
Come here by organized tour for a day of swimming and diving, and terrific views across the water back to Maui.
The semi-immersed Molokini Crater lies off the southwestern tip of Maui, between Maui and the island of Kaho'olawe.
It’s around 2.5 mi (4 km) from Makena State Park on Maui’s mainland.
