A Season-by-Season Guide

Molokini Crater, an ancient volcanic caldera off Maui’s southern coast, offers one of the best snorkeling experiences in Hawaiʻi. But the experience isn’t the same year-round—the conditions, wildlife, and overall vibe change with the seasons. Knowing when to visit can make all the difference in what you see and how memorable your trip becomes (though any time of year is pretty remarkable).

Let’s dive into what each season brings, so you can plan your Molokini snorkel adventure perfectly.

 

When is the Best Time to snorkel Molokini?

Winter (December – February): Humpback Season & Cooler Waters

Winter at Molokini is marked by the arrival of humpback whales to Maui’s warm waters. While humpbacks don’t usually swim into the crater itself, the chance to see them breaching during your boat ride adds a magical element to your day. There’s also a very good chance of hearing them sing while snorkeling! Snorkeling conditions in winter can be variable—the water is a bit cooler, averaging around 75°F (24°C), and ocean swells can occasionally limit visibility.  That said, if you want to snorkel in the winter, Molokini is your best chance at clarity because large winter swells can murk up potential shore diving.

Local Tip: Opt for morning tours during this time, as the waters are calmer before the wind picks up in the afternoon. And if you’re lucky, your tour operator might take a detour to watch humpbacks. Be prepared for a brisker dip, and consider wearing a spring suit for extra warmth.  Water temps don’t fluctuate much year-round, but you’ll stay out a little longer if you’re in a wetsuit.  We especially like the big boats this time of year, so that you can get a bird’s eye view from the top deck of our whales doing their thing!

Spring (March – May): Clear Waters & Calm Conditions

Spring is one of the best times to snorkel at Molokini. Our whale season starts winding down, but the ocean tends to calm significantly, creating ideal snorkeling conditions. Visibility during this period is often unmatched—you can expect to see up to 150 feet (45 meters) within the crater on most days. The water temperature begins to rise, making for a more comfortable swim.

Local Tip: This is a great time for first-time snorkelers, as calm waters make the experience easier. You’ll also start to see more reef fish becoming active after the winter, and fewer boats mean a more relaxed experience. This is the best time to take a raft to Molokini.

Summer (June – August): Warm Waters & Marine Life Galore

Summer brings the warmest waters to Molokini, averaging about 79°F (26°C). With these temperatures come an abundance of marine life, from brightly colored reef fish to curious eels and even the occasional manta ray. The weather is reliably sunny, making this the peak season for snorkelers and tourists alike. However, it’s also the busiest—expect larger crowds both on the boat and at the crater.

Local Tip: Book your tour early in the summer months, as demand is high. If you’re an early riser, aim for the first boat out to enjoy a less crowded experience. Don’t forget to apply reef-safe sunscreen before heading out, as you’ll be spending more time under the strong summer sun.

Fall (September – November): Quiet & Pristine

Fall is often overlooked by travelers, but it’s a fantastic time to snorkel at Molokini. Water temperatures remain warm, and crowds thin out after the summer rush (this is the slowest time of the year), creating a tranquil experience. The underwater visibility is excellent, and the calmer ocean conditions make it easy to explore the vibrant coral gardens without interruption.

Local Tip: This is one of the best times for photographers to visit. The soft autumn light paired with calm waters provides excellent conditions for underwater photos (bring a GoPro or a waterhousing for your phone!) Plus, fewer boats mean more opportunities to explore without distractions—ideal if you’re serious about getting the perfect shot.  And since the island is so slow, we prefer a quick trip to Molokini so that we can experience a few other fun things to do on Maui for the rest of the day (with no crowds.)

Planning Your Trip

While Molokini Crater offers incredible snorkeling all year round, the best time depends on what you’re looking for. Winter for whale sightings, spring for visibility, summer for warm waters, and fall for crowd-avoidance. Whichever season you choose, booking one of our curated Maui snorkeling experiences ensures that you get the most out of our ocean.  Have fun and Mahalo!