Molokini and Turtle Arches Snorkeling Trip from Ma'alaea Harbor

Maui , United States

Molokini and Turtle Arches Snorkeling Trip from Ma'alaea Harbor

Active

(812 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Snorkel at world-famous Molokini, a small crescent shaped extinct volcanic crater with crystal clear water that is home to more than 250 fish species. Then enjoy Turtle Arches, a beautiful reef known for its underwater lava arches and frequented by gentle green sea turtles. All of your snorkeling gear and flotation devices are provided, plus plenty of encouragement and support if you’re new to snorkeling. Wide swim steps and a water slide make it easy and fun to get right in and explore both amazing locations.

Available options

Departure

What's included

BBQ Lunch: teriyaki marinated chicken breasts, hot dogs, garden burgers, potato salad, corn and bean salad, and chocolate chip cookies for dessert.

Refreshments: sodas, tropical juices and filtered water.

Professionally-fitted snorkel gear, including optical masks for eyeglass wearers, flotation device, learn-to-snorkel class, fish ID class, guided reef tour

Continental breakfast: banana bread, assorted pastries and fresh island fruit.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Molokini is a crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater which forms a small, uninhabited islet located in ʻAlalākeiki Channel between the islands of Maui and Kahoʻolawe, within Maui County in Hawaiʻi.

Maalaea harbor is home to the Pacific Whale Foundation and the Maui Aquarium.

Cruise with the experts at PacWhale Eco-Adventures on Maui's top-rated ocean ecotours, based on 40 years of marine research and sustainable ecotourism experience. PacWhale has cruises for every style of adventure, including whale and dolphin watch ecotours, snorkel trips, sunset cocktail and sunset dinner cruises, holiday cruises, stargazing ecotours, and more.

What's not included

One free child age 4 and under per paying adult. Children ages 5-12 charged child rate.

Gratuities

Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Hotel pickup and drop-off are not available.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

277 reviews

5★

215

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

535 reviews

5★

412

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

For each paying adult, 1 child ages 4 and under goes free. All children must be on the order/voucher as they account for a seat.

To protect the reef environment and in support of the statewide ban on sunscreens, we will no longer allow the use of any non-reef safe sunscreen on board any snorkel eco tours. 4oz Reef safe sunscreen will be available on board for $13

You will need to bring your own towels and credit cards for any onboard purchases as the vessels are cashless except for gratuities

For safety reasons, the use of full-face masks is not permitted on our snorkel ecotours. We do provide high quality snorkel gear on board for all guest

Meeting point

PWF retail store in Ma'alaea Harbor Shops next to Maui Ocean Center Aquarium shared parking
Check-in 45 minutes prior to departure time

Important notes

Pacific Whale Foundation reserves the right to reschedule or cancel due to weather at the discretion of the Captain. For your safety, all cruises, in part or in whole, are weather-permitting. Captains may use their discretion in choosing alternate sites without giving prior notice. We reserve the right to substitute vessels and equipment. All activities are at your own risk. No liability, expressed or implied, rests with Pacific Whale Foundation Eco-Adventures or its subsidiaries or officers.
• One free child ages 4 and under per paying adult.

About Maui

Maui, known as the Valley Isle, is the second-largest Hawaiian island and offers a diverse landscape of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic mountains. It's renowned for its stunning sunrises and sunsets, world-class snorkeling, and the scenic Road to Hana.

Top Attractions

Road to Hana

A 160 km (100-mile) drive along the island's northern coast, featuring waterfalls, lush rainforests, and stunning ocean views. A must-do for any visitor.

Scenic Drive Full day Free (parking fees may apply at some stops)

Haleakala National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the dormant Haleakala volcano, unique ecosystems, and stunning sunrise and sunset views.

Nature Half day to full day $30 per vehicle (7-day pass)

Molokini Crater

A partially submerged volcanic crater offering world-class snorkeling and diving with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

Adventure Half day $100-150 per person (including snorkel gear and lunch)

Lahaina Town

A charming historic town with a rich whaling history, boutique shops, art galleries, and waterfront dining.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore (costs vary for shopping and dining)

Iao Valley State Park

A lush, tropical valley featuring the iconic Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot tall volcanic pinnacle, and scenic hiking trails.

Nature 1-2 hours $5 per vehicle (Hawaii residents free)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poke

A traditional Hawaiian dish made with diced raw fish, typically tuna or salmon, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Served over rice or as a salad.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made with cooked fish or vegetarian options.

Loco Moco

A hearty dish featuring a bed of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. A comfort food favorite in Hawaii.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan versions available.

Malasadas

Portuguese-inspired fried dough balls, dusted with sugar or filled with sweet fillings like custard or haupia (coconut pudding). A popular treat from Teddy's Bake Shop in Lahaina.

Dessert Vegetarian (contains eggs and dairy).

Shave Ice

Finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups and often served with a scoop of ice cream or sweetened condensed milk. A refreshing treat, especially on hot days.

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available (check for dairy-free syrups).

Popular Activities

Hiking Snorkeling Scuba Diving Surfing Zip-lining Beach lounging Spa treatments Sunset cruises

Best Time to Visit

April to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather, lower humidity, and fewer tourists. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the island.

22-29°C 72-84°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Tagalog, Japanese, Ilocano
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST), GMT-10:00

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Maui is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in tourist areas. However, petty theft and scams can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering services or deals that seem too good to be true
• Use reputable tour operators and rental companies

Getting there

By air

Kahului Airport • 2.4 km (1.5 miles) from Kahului

By bus

Kahului, Lahaina, Wailuku

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable but infrequent service. Best for short trips between towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kihei Wailea Lahaina Upcountry Maui

Day trips

Lana'i

16 km (10 miles) by ferry from Lahaina • Full day

A secluded island known for its luxury resorts, scenic beaches, and off-road adventures. Ideal for those looking to escape the crowds of Maui.

Molokini Crater

16 km (10 miles) by boat from Kihei • Half day

A partially submerged volcanic crater offering world-class snorkeling and diving with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

Haleakala National Park

48 km (30 miles) from Kahului • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the dormant Haleakala volcano, unique ecosystems, and stunning sunrise and sunset views.

Festivals

Maui Film Festival • June Maui County Fair • Late September to early October Maui Whale Festival • February to March (peak whale watching season)

Pro tips

Rent a car for at least part of your trip to explore the island's diverse landscapes and attractions
Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season
Visit popular attractions like the Road to Hana and Haleakala National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and follow local guidelines for responsible snorkeling and diving
Try local specialties like poke, loco moco, and malasadas for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience