Quick Answer
- Choose Black Rock (Puʻu Kekaʻa) for a quick, self‑guided shore snorkel near Kaʻanapali—only on calm mornings. Pick Molokini Crater if you want Maui’s clearest water, crew support + gear, breakfast/lunch, and a likely second stop for turtles (conditions permitting).
Important: Keep 10 feet (3 m) from sea turtles and choose reef-safe sunscreen in Maui County.
Last Updated: October 30, 2025.
If you’re planning a snorkeling adventure on Maui, you’ve probably heard about two iconic spots: Black Rock (Puʻu Kekaʻa) and Molokini Crater. Both offer incredible underwater views, tropical fish, and that magical Maui sunshine — but they deliver totally different experiences.
Black Rock is Maui’s famous shore snorkel, just steps from the Kaʻanapali resorts. It’s convenient, fun, and great for confident swimmers on calm mornings. Molokini, on the other hand, is a boat-access-only volcanic crater, known worldwide for its crystal-clear water and vibrant marine life. Our tour to Molokini comes complete with crew support, meals, and a second stop to Turtle Town!
Not sure which one fits you best? Let’s compare them side by side and help you pick the perfect snorkel for your Maui getaway.
Side-By-Side Comparison
| What you care about | Black Rock (shore) | Molokini (boat) |
|---|---|---|
| Water clarity | Variable; drops with wind/surf. | Most consistent clarity (offshore crater). |
| Safety support | None in water; self-guided. | Crew, flotation, first-aid, gear included. |
| Logistics | Beach access, limited parking; crowds near cliff-jump zone at sunset. | Simple check-in; breakfast/lunch, shaded seating, restrooms. |
| Wildlife | Reef fish; occasional turtles. | Reef fish, corals; second stop often targets turtles. |
| When it’s best | Early, calm mornings only. | Morning departures (trade winds typically lighter). |
| Culture / vibe | Iconic Kaʻanapali landmark; nightly torch-lighting & cliff dive (from the shore). | Offshore nature-preserve vibe; no cliff-jump scene. |
Who Should Choose Black Rock Maui (Puʻu Kekaʻa)?
Black Rock Maui rises at the north end of Kaʻanapali Beach, fronting the Sheraton area — easy to spot and access via the beach walk. It’s famous for snorkeling on calm mornings and the sunset torch‑lighting & cliff‑dive ritual (watch from shore).
Choose it when:
- The ocean is flat and wind is light early.
- You’re comfortable self‑assessing conditions.
- You want a quick session close to your Kā‘anapali hotel.
Safety notes:
- Stay clear of the cliff‑jump impact zone—sunset gets busy.
- Currents can occur near the tip; if it’s not glassy, don’t go.
- Give turtles 10 ft (3 m); never touch or chase marine life.
Note: Black Rock does not appear on the state list of lifeguarded beaches; the nearest lifeguarded beach is Hanakaʻōʻō Park to the south. When in doubt, choose a lifeguarded beach.
Who Should Choose Molokini Crater?
Molokini is a crescent‑shaped volcanic crater about 3 miles off Maui’s southwest coast, protected as the Molokini Shoal Marine Life Conservation District (MLCD). Snorkeling is done inside the crater; the back wall is very deep and generally for advanced divers, not standard snorkeling. Landing on the islet is prohibited (it’s a state seabird sanctuary). Check out our Molokini Marine Life guide to read about what you might see!
Choose it when:
- You want maximum visibility and photography‑worthy water.
- You prefer guided support (crew, flotation, briefings) and included gear/meals.
- You’d like a two‑stop day (e.g., Molokini + Turtle Town).
- You can wake up early — mornings are usually best across Hawaiʻi.
What To Bring And What’s Required
- Sunscreen: Maui County allows only mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide) for sale, distribution, and use without a prescription (effective Oct 1, 2022).
- Wildlife Distance: Stay 10 ft (3 m) from turtles — on land and in water.
- At Black Rock Maui: Mask/snorkel/fins; flotation if you’re new; water shoes optional; check flags and conditions.
- On Our Boat: We provide gear, flotation, reef‑safe sunscreen, meals, and a supportive crew — just bring a towel, swimsuit, and a sense of adventure.
- Don’t touch or stand on coral; it’s illegal to damage stony corals or live rock in Hawaiʻi (HAR 13‑95).
Smarter Alternatives If Black Rock Looks Rough
If Kaʻanapali is windy or crowded, go with a plan designed for comfort and clarity:
- Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour (5‑hr) — clearest water + breakfast and lunch.
- Afternoon Snorkeling Tour (3‑hr) — shorter day, near‑shore reef (Coral Gardens) that’s often protected from trades.
FAQs
Do you land on Molokini?
No. Landing is prohibited — Molokini Islet is a State Seabird Sanctuary. Tours snorkel in the surrounding MLCD waters.
Can you snorkel Molokini without a tour?
No- boat only.
Where exactly is Black Rock?
At the north end of Kaʻanapali Beach by the Sheraton Maui, the rock is called Puʻu Kekaʻa.
Is Black Rock lifeguarded?
No, the nearest lifeguarded beach is Hanakaʻōʻō Park.
When is the Black Rock cliff‑dive ceremony?
At sunset — watch from shore; give jumpers a wide berth.
What’s the rule for turtles?
Give them at least 10 ft (3 m) of space — on land or in water.
Why are mornings better?
Hawaiʻi’s ocean‑safety guidance notes that mornings usually offer calmer winds and better visibility for snorkeling.
Conclusion + Book Your Molokini Tour
When it comes down to it, there’s no wrong choice — just different vibes.
If you’re staying near Kaʻanapali and wake up to glassy water, Black Rock is perfect for a quick, spontaneous snorkel. You’ll be close to your hotel and surrounded by Maui’s famous scenery.
If you want our expert guidance, safety support, and the clearest water on the island, Molokini is the winner! With breakfast, lunch, and all your gear provided, it’s a stress-free, unforgettable day on the water!
Molokini Snorkeling Tour
Join us for a snorkel adventure to Molokini Crater! Swim and snorkel with tropical fish, green sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs! Reserve your spot now!
