Molokini Island Marine Sanctuary
Molokini National Preserve protects native bird and marine life.
One of Hawaii's most treasured natural wonders is Molokini Crater which is located about two miles off the southern shore of Maui. Molokini is a protected marine area that features very calm waters due to the natural barrier provided by the crescent-shaped crater.
The unique geography of the half-submerged crater of Molokini creates a habitat for many native Hawaiian fish and bird species. The crystal clear water and protective shelter of rock allow many of these rare Hawaiian species to thrive.
The crater may also be visited by spinner dolphins, and during the winter months humpback whales are often seen on the journey to and from the crater. Rarely, a humpback may even enter the waters within the crater itself.
Due to the unique native marine and bird life at Molokini, the crater and its surroundings, including 77 acres of underwater terrain, were designated as a Marine Life and Bird Conservation District in 1977.
Mooring buoys have been established around the partially submerged crater of Molokini to help protect the area's natural resources including the coral reef as well as the native bird habitat. Crew members of visiting boats dive down to the mooring pins along the curving inside crater wall.
These mooring pins allow the boats to be secured safely within the crater basin without damage to the area's fragile coral. Some scuba diving boats may drift along with their scuba divers once the divers have entered the water.
The buoys, which were installed by the Hawaii State Division of Boating, also provide some semblance of order for the visiting tour boats. Also established at Molokini were Day Use Mooring Rules, helping to prevent any anchor damage.
No one is allowed to walk on Molokini Islet because of its protected natural preserve status. Feeding marine life is also prohibited, and you are not allowed to approach monk seals or green sea turtles. Nothing may be removed from the area.
