The tiny, crescent-shaped island of Molokini lies 4.2 km (3 miles) offshore of Haleakala volcano, East Maui. Molokini is a volcanic cone that rises about 150 m (500 ft) from the submerged flank of Haleakala to a summit only 49 m (162 ft) above sea level. The cone is capped by a crater 540 m in diameter (1770 ft), although the northern rim is below sea level and the crater is flooded by the sea. It was active about 230,000 years ago--give or take 90,000 years--according to an age measured from lava fragments contained in the cone. Molokini lies along Haleakala's southwest rift zone. Much of the rift zone is mantled with lava, cinders, and ash erupted during the past 50,000 years. For that reason, geologists have always assumed that Molokini was a fairly young volcanic formation. But the 230,000-year age suggests that Molokini is much older, probably older than Haleakala Crater itself.

Legend has it that Molokini is the result of a jealous rage. The volcano goddess, Pele, had a dream lover, Lohiau, who lived in Maalaea. Lohiau married a mo'o (lizard) and in anger, Pele bisected the lizard. The tail became Puulai Hill in Makena and the head turned into the Molokini islet.

The ocean around Molokini was declared a marine preserve by the State Marine Life Conservations District in 1977. These waters near Molokini are considered one of Maui's top snorkel sites and popular diving location reached easily by boat. Molokini's northern rim has eroded away to form a protected cover perfect for diving and snorkeling. It is home to more than 250 species of fish, some of which are endemic to Hawaii. The island itself is off limits, however, because it serves as a bird sanctuary.

Come explore the beauty of the seas with a Maui snorkel trip aboard the Mahana Nai'a! Maui Private Charters Welcome!