Molokini – Maui's Snorkeling and Diving Mecca

This tiny islet is a crescent shaped wonder located three miles off of Maui's south shore. Not more than twenty-three acres the crescent shaped island has no hotels, no beaches, no restaurants and no human inhabitants. Legally a part of Maui country and designated as a Hawai'i State Seabird Sanctuary, the island is the nesting grounds for rare seabirds including Wedge-tailed Shearwaters and Frigatebirds. But it's a rare occasion that anyone comes to visit these birds. It's the marine life that provides lifelong memories for visitors to the islet.

The partially submerged volcanic crater is the destination for many who come to enjoy Maui's warm and crystal clear waters. The waters on the interior of the cone are home to many tropical fish, turtles and other sea life. Marine biologists have counted more that 250 species that include Black Triggerfish, Yellow Tang, Moorish Idol, Parrotfish, Raccoon butterfly fish and Blue fin Trevally.

The island is located between Maui and the island of Kahoolawe. Located in the middle of the Alalakeiki Channel, he crescent shape of the island provides protection from the rough water in the channel and buffers snorkelers and divers from rip currents.

To visit the island is one of the more popular activities for Maui visitors. There are numerous snorkeling tours that depart from several points from the Kaanapali resort, Lahaina, Maalaea harbor and Kihei. For a reasonable fee they provide snorkeling and diving equipment, and sometimes even beverages and lunch. Not all snorkeling trips are the same. Some are offers on large boats that offer the sea shy a large vessel complete with showers and restroom facilities. Others make the journey to Molokini on smaller catamarans that provide a smaller capacity and a more personalized experience. All trips come along with an experienced crew that will educate and assist each one of their passengers.

Part of the enjoyment of a Molokini visit is the views that come with being on the ocean. There are fantastic views of the Maui coastline along with the neighboring islands of Molokai and Lanai. On clear days, the views of Haleakala are outstanding.

A visit to Molokini is certainly one of the more wonderful parts of a Maui vacation. It's an opportunity for those to enjoy the sanctuary. For those who are afraid of the water, it's the perfect opportunity to conquer that fear and make lifetime memories.

Hawaii Travel Advice: Book a morning departure when the sun and sea are kinder.

Published as original post by http://www.hawaiiguideme.com.

Lottie Tagupa is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of Oahu. She has been writing about Hawaii for over 10 years and currently lives in Waimea on the Big Island.