About Molokini Island in Hawaii

An introduction to tiny, crescent-shaped Molokini Island, a popular snorkeling site off Maui Island that is also a seabird sanctuary and marine protected area. See also information about other Hawaiian Islands and our Hawaii Travel Guide.

Molokini is tiny, crescent shaped island in the Alalakeiki Channel, between the Maui Island and Kahoolawe Island. It is an uninhabited with no infrastructure that cannot be accessed by visidtors because the entire island is protected as a Hawaii state seabird sanctuary.

The island is the above-water tip of an inactive underwater volcanic crater. There are no sandy beaches on the island. The sea bottom off the Cove area of Molokini slopoes down from the shoreline to a depth of about 100 feet before dropping off. A shallow reef in less than 30 feet of water extends from the shorelne northward at the island's Northwestern point. The diversity of fish and other marine life off Molokini is among the most impressive in the State of Hawaii

Molokini has been designated by the State of Hawaii as a marine life conservation district and state seabird sanctuary. Accessing the island itself is strictly prohibited but its offshore cove and reef areas are popular spots for snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking tours.

Molokini can only be reached by boat, and trips to the island typically begin at the Kihei Boat Ramp. There are no hotels, restaurants or development of any kind on Molokini.

Facts About Molokini Island

Activities on Molokini Island

Attractions on Molokini Island

Resources Related to Molokini Island

A to Z Guide to Molokini Island

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Other Southeast Hawaiian Islands

Remote Northwest Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Islands in the Pacific

Hawaii for Visitors

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