Written by the Maui Snorkeling team, operating Molokini Crater, Turtle Town, and Coral Gardens tours out of Maalaea (Māʻalaea) 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.
Quick Answer: Hawaii’s state fish is the humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa, also called the reef triggerfish. Its scientific name is Rhinecanthus rectangulus. It’s a colorful reef fish with a bold pattern, a pointed snout, and a big Hawaiian name that’s easier to say once you break it into parts. On Maui, you’ll have the best chance of spotting one near shallow reef structure, coral heads, rocky edges, and sandy reef borders when the ocean is calm and clear.
Main Takeaways:
- Common Name: Reef triggerfish, often shortened to humuhumu
- Hawaiian Name: Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa, sometimes searched as humuhumunukunukuapuaa without Hawaiian marks
- How To Spot It: Look for bold stripes, a pointed snout, a compact body, and a trigger-like dorsal spine
- Where To Look On Maui: Calm reef areas, including Molokini, Turtle Town, Coral Gardens, and protected shore reefs when conditions are safe
- Best Snorkeling Tip: Move slowly, keep your distance, and don’t chase it if it ducks into the reef
- Reef Etiquette: Don’t touch coral, stand on reef, feed fish, or disturb marine life
The Hawaii state fish is the humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa, also called the reef triggerfish. It’s one of the most recognizable reef fish in Hawaiʻi thanks to its bold markings, pointed snout, and unforgettable Hawaiian name. In this guide, you’ll learn what its name means, how to pronounce it, how to identify it underwater, and where to look for it while snorkeling on Maui.
What Is Hawaii's State Fish?
The state fish of Hawaii is the Humuhumunukunukuapuaʻa, but you may also see this fish called the reef triggerfish, rectangular triggerfish, or humuhumu. The scientific name is Rhinecanthus rectangulus. Most Maui snorkelers and guides call it the humuhumu after the first part of its Hawaiian name.
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.
What does Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa Mean?
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 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
Quick ID: Look for an angular body, a pointed pig-like snout, a dark mask across the face, blue lines near the mouth, and a stop-and-go swimming style close to the reef.
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 as it swims 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 Boat Snorkel Spots on Maui
- 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 on Maui
- 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.
Best Time To Look for Humuhumu
Morning is usually the best time to look for humuhumu on Maui because the ocean is often calmer, and visibility can be better. Look near coral heads, rocky edges, and sandy reef borders. If the water looks rough, cloudy, or surgy, don’t force it. Make it a beach day or choose another snorkel spot.
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.
How To See Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa While Snorkeling on Maui
When you join one of our Maui Snorkeling Tours, spotting the Hawaii state fish is always a highlight. Here’s what to expect:
- 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.
- 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
Plan A Maui Snorkeling Tour
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!
