Meet the Hawaii State Fish: The Humuhumunukuapua’a

Written by the Maui Snorkeling team, operating Molokini Crater, Turtle Town, and Coral Gardens tours out of Maʻalaea Harbor since 1985. Tours are led by USCG‑licensed captains aboard a USCG‑inspected passenger vessel. We spend more days in these waters than on land.

Last updated: March 2026

Want to meet a local celebrity on your next snorkel? Say aloha to the Hawaii state fish — the Humuhumunukunukuapuaʻa! This little reef rockstar has a huge name, bright colors, and a big personality. In this guide, you’ll learn how to spot it, where to find it on Maui, how to say that tricky name, and how to keep the reef safe while you explore.

What Is the State Fish of Hawaii?

The state fish of Hawaii is the Humuhumunukunukuapuaʻa, also called the reef triggerfish. Its scientific name is Rhinecanthus rectangulus. Triggerfish live in warm waters around the world. However, the Humuhumunukunukuapuaʻa is most strongly associated with Hawaiʻi, though the species occurs more broadly across the Indo-Pacific. You’ll find locals and visitors smiling when they spot the famous triggerfish with a snout!

Why Is the Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa Hawaii’s State Fish?

Hawaiians have admired this fish for centuries. Its Hawaiian name means “fish with a snout like a pig.” That’s because it makes a pig-like grunt when threatened!

The humuhumunukunukuapuaʻa first became the official state fish in 1985. The title lapsed briefly, but it was reinstated permanently in 2006. Today, this little fish is a proud symbol of Hawaii’s marine life.

How To Pronounce Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa

(It’s Easier Than You Think.) Break it into small bits:

hoo-moo hoo-moo noo-koo noo-koo ah-poo-ah-ah

Many visitors practice it for fun. Saying the name is almost like a Hawaiian vacation challenge!

Nicknames

Locals often shorten it to Humuhumu. That’s much easier to say when you’re pointing one out on a snorkeling tour!

How To Identify a Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa

The Humuhumunukunukuapuaʻa is usually only 8 to 10 inches long. However, its bold colors and markings make it stand out.

• Body Shape: Flat and oval-shaped, with a pointed snout.
• Colors: Creamy beige body with striking black, blue, and yellow stripes.
• Eyes: Positioned high on its head, helping it keep watch while feeding.

Its flashy markings have earned it the nickname Picasso triggerfish, since it looks like a work of art swimming through the reef.

Where To See the Hawaii State Fish on Maui

The Humuhumunukunukuapuaʻa loves the warm, shallow reefs of Hawaii. It’s commonly found around coral heads, rocky crevices, and sandy lagoon bottoms.

Best Places To See the Hawaii State Fish by Boat

• Molokini Crater: Molokini is in clear, protected water, and its visibility can be incredible. Look for humuhumu near coral patches and rocky edges. Morning light makes their colors pop.
• Turtle Town: Calmer water and gentle lava rock structures make a great habitat. Scan the ledges and the sandy edges. The humuhumu likes to dart in and out of little caves.
• Coral Gardens: This sheltered coastline is a maze of coral and rock. Drift slowly and watch for the Humuhumunukunukuapuaʻa’s bold face pattern and electric blue lines.

Best Shore Snorkel Spots To See the Hawaii State Fish

• Kapalua Bay & Napili Bay (West Maui): Protected coves with healthy coral. Hug the rocky sides. Move slowly. You’ll often see them zigzagging between coral heads.
• Black Rock (Kaʻanapali): Follow the rock wall. Stay aware of currents and keep a safe distance from cliff-jumpers. Fish love the structure here.
• Ulua Beach & Keawakapu (South Maui): Beginner-friendly entries with plenty of reef life. Early morning is best for calm water and clear views.

Tip: Conditions change. If the water looks rough or cloudy, choose another spot or another day. Safety first.

How the Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa Behaves on the Reef

• Daily Life: These fish are active during the day and tend to hide at night. They eat algae, snails, and small crustaceans.
• Defense Mechanism: They wedge into rocks and lock in with a dorsal spine “trigger.” That’s how triggerfish got their name.
• Territorial Attitude: Don’t be fooled by its cute looks! They’re feisty! These little guys defend their territory, especially against other fish.

Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa Name, Meaning, and Hawaiian Context

The humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa is one of Hawaiʻi’s most recognizable reef fish, and its name tells you a lot about it. According to Waikīkī Aquarium, humuhumu is the Hawaiian term for triggerfish, while nukuāpuaʻa means “snout like a pig.” That fits this fish well: it roots around the reef for food and can even grunt when stressed or handled.

This fish also has a small but real place in Hawaiian history. Waikīkī Aquarium notes that triggerfish known by this name were sometimes used as substitutes for pigs in certain religious ceremonies. That gives the humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa a genuine cultural context without stretching into claims that are harder to source.

About Spelling

You’ll see different versions:

• Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa (with Hawaiian diacritics)
• Humuhumunukunukuapuaa (no marks)
• Humuhumunukuapua’a (common online spelling)

All roads lead to the same fish. Use whichever you’re comfortable with, and share the story when someone asks!

How To See Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa While Snorkeling in Maui

When you join one of our Maui Snorkeling Tours, spotting the Hawaii state fish is always a highlight. Here’s what to expect:

Morning Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour

• Runs daily from 7 AM to 12 PM.
• Two snorkeling stops: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.
• Swim with tropical fish, green sea turtles, and maybe even a Humuhumu.
• Includes breakfast, lunch, and all snorkeling gear.

Afternoon Snorkeling Tour

• Runs daily from 1 PM to 4 PM.
• Perfect for families looking for a shorter adventure.
• Spot the Humuhumunukunukuapuaʻa among vibrant coral reefs.
• Includes lunch and snorkeling gear.

Both tours are easy, friendly, and perfect for families. Crew members share tips, keep you safe, and help you spot the humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa (and yes, we’ll help you say it). Please note: wildlife sightings can vary, but we know where to look and when to go.

Reef Etiquette When Snorkeling

• Give Fish Space: Reef Triggerfish can get territorial, especially when guarding a nest. If it flares fins, tilts, or charges, back away slowly. That’s reef language for “too close.”
• Never Feed Fish: Feeding changes natural behavior and can harm reef life. Let them do the feeding, while you do the watching.
• Wear Reef-Safe Sun Protection: On the boat, wear a long-sleeve rash guard and a brimmed hat. If you use sunscreen, choose reef-safe options and apply it well before you enter the water.
• Respect Protected Areas: Many sites around Maui are special places for marine life. Follow posted signs and guidance from your crew.

Tips for Spotting Them

• Stay Calm: These fish are shy. Move slowly to avoid scaring them.
• Look Down Low: They often feed near the reef bottom.
• Watch the Sand: Sometimes they dart across open areas between coral.
• Use a Guide’s Help: Our crew are experts at spotting them.

Humuhumu vs. Other Triggerfish You Might See

Look-Alikes You May Meet

Hawaii hosts several triggerfish. Two you might spot:

• Black Triggerfish: Dark body, often in schools, sleek shape.
• Pinktail Triggerfish: Bright pink tail with a greenish body—hard to miss!

These species are lovely, but the humuhumu stands out with its busy face pattern and crisp, painted lines.

How to Tell the Humuhumu at a Glance

• Bold “mask” across the face
• Electric blue streaks
• Blocky, angular shape
• Confident, stop-and-go swim style

Fun Facts About the Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa

• It can make a grunting noise like a pig when caught or threatened.
• It sleeps wedged in rocks to avoid predators.
• Its eyes move independently, giving it a panoramic view of its surroundings.
• It’s featured in countless Hawaiian T-shirts, postcards, and art prints.

Hawaii State Fish FAQs

Final Splash: Why the Humuhumu Steals the Show

The humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa is bold, beautiful, and full of character. It’s small but mighty, with a name you’ll love to say all trip long. Meet it in its island home, treat the reef with care, and you’ll carry a bright Maui memory forever!

Ready to look for the state fish of Hawaii with a friendly crew and an easy plan? Join Maui Snorkeling for a day on the water, and let’s go find that famous face together! 🐠

👉 Interested in learning about other Maui fish? See our Maui Tropical Fish Guide!