Maui Fish Identification: 13 Colorful Tropical Fish You Must See Now!

Maui offers waterfalls, green landscapes, and sandy beaches—but the island’s real magic waits under the water. The reefs here are full of tropical fish and marine life that make snorkeling unforgettable. In this post, we’ll dive into the underwater world of Maui and reveal the top snorkeling spots to see these ocean treasures!

The Tropical Fish of Maui

Maui’s ocean is alive with tropical fish, each one adding color to the reef. Look for the Moorish Idol with its bold stripes or the Butterflyfish with its unique patterns. The variety of fish here will take your breath away. Not to forget the Humuhumunukunukuapua’a, Hawaii’s state fish, whose intricate name is as complex as its vibrant, geometric patterns.

One can also encounter the Parrotfish, a vital species for coral health. They graze on algae and keep the reefs clean. Their brilliant colors and the sound of their beaks nibbling on coral make them a fascinating sight. Then there’s the Yellow Tang, a flash of bright yellow against the blue, easily spotted amidst the coral gardens.

Maui Fish Identification: A List of Tropical Fish Commonly Found in the Waters Around Maui

1. Yellow Tang – Recognizable by its bright yellow coloring. Yellow Tangs are primarily found in shallow water, where they swim both in the open water and among the reefs. By feeding on algae, they protect coral reefs. Too much algae can cover coral and make it hard for reefs to grow strong.

2. Moorish Idol – With bold black, white, and yellow bands, the Moorish Idol stands out on the reef. This fish helps reefs by controlling sponges and adding to the variety of life in the ecosystem. Its unique appearance and behavior continue to fascinate scientists, divers, and marine hobbyists around the world. They are usually around 7 inches in length with long trailing fins.

3. Humuhumunukunukuapua’a or Hawaiian Triggerfish – The state fish of Hawaii, famous for its long name and unique appearance. Its coloration is a vivid tapestry of geometric patterns, primarily in a mix of blue, yellow, black, and white spots.

This fish holds a special place in the hearts of locals and its cultural significance and is often featured in stories and chants. The name comes from the sound it makes, like a pig’s grunt, when it feels threatened or is taken out of the water.

4. Butterflyfish – There are several species, each with its own colorful and intricate patterns.

• Ornate Butterflyfish – Known as one of Hawaii’s most colorful fish, it stands out with six bright orange stripes on each side. Most measure around five to six inches, though some reach eight. Its black-and-yellow face bars and gray forehead patch make it easy to recognize.
• Threadfin Butterflyfish – a multicolor fish that can be found in the outer reefs of Maui. They often seek refuge behind rocks and coral formations. One way to tell Hawaiian Threadfins apart is the black “eyespot” on their top fin. Red Sea Threadfins don’t have this marking.
• Longnose Butterflyfish – a striking and elegant species found in the waters around Maui and throughout the Indo-Pacific region. This fish is known for its distinctive appearance, marked by a bright yellow body and a long, pointed snout, which gives it its name. This species is interesting for snorkelers and marine biologists. Its unique feeding habits and role in the reef make it special.
• Raccoon Butterflyfish – gets its name from the distinctive black patches around its eyes, reminiscent of a terrestrial raccoon’s mask. This species is nocturnal, often seen moving in pairs or small schools. It shows a yellow-orange color with a top half that’s darker than the bottom, making it easy to recognize.
• Teardrop Butterflyfish – Known as the “One Spot Butterfly,” this fish has a black teardrop shape and streak on the upper side of its body. It primarily exhibits a white body that gradually shifts to yellow towards its upper section. A bold black bar sits just behind its eyes, giving it a striking look and making it a favorite for Maui snorkelers.
• Bluestripe Butterflyfish – gravitate towards sandy patches nestled among boulders and coral on the ocean’s smooth floor. When snorkeling in Hawaii, these fish are commonly encountered in shallow reefs and close to rocky shorelines. Unique to the Hawaiian Islands, the Bluestripe Butterflyfish is a rare find. New findings reveal that Bluestripes inhabit depths of up to 600 feet, much deeper than previously thought. These fish are easy to spot on the reef thanks to their eight bold blue stripes that run across their body.
• Fourspot Butterflyfish – This colorful fish lives in the waters of Maui and the Indo-Pacific region. It is especially recognized for its distinctive appearance, marked by four black spots from which it derives its name. Snorkelers and divers in Maui’s waters have a good chance of spotting these colorful fish among the coral reefs. Their distinct spots and vibrant colors make them a delightful sight for those exploring Maui’s underwater ecosystems.
• Oval Butterflyfish – showcases a dazzling array of colors, as suggested by its name. Its body is mostly white or silver with horizontal stripes in yellow, orange, or sometimes light pink. A dark band runs through its eye, a common butterflyfish trait that helps hide the eye from predators. The dorsal and anal fins of the Rainbow Butterflyfish are edged in bright yellow, adding to its colorful display.
• Milletseed Butterflyfish – This bright yellow fish has small black specks on its sides that blend into vertical stripes. A prominent black bar veils its eyes, and there’s a notable black patch at the junction where its body meets the tail fin. The best chance to spot the Milletseed Butterflyfish in Maui is around coral reefs, where they like to gather.

5. Parrotfish – These fish stand out for their vivid colors, which may be blue, green, or yellow. Depending on the species and age, their tones can also be more muted. Their pectoral fins, which they use to swim, are located on their sides.

Parrotfish have robust, oval bodies and unique beaks made of fused teeth. They use these beaks to scrape algae from coral and rocks. This feeding habit helps coral reefs stay healthy by stopping algae from growing too much and covering the coral.

6. Bluefin Trevally – Notable for its electric blue fins and aggressive hunting behavior. Maui’s clear waters and healthy reefs make great snorkeling spots, where Bluefin Trevally are often seen hunting or gliding along the reef edge. Some of the best places to spot them include Molokini Crater and along the west coast of Maui.

7. Lagoon Triggerfish – Looks similar to the Hawaii state fish, making it one of the more recognizable species. Known for its territorial behavior, especially during the mating season, when it aggressively guards its eggs. During this time, both males and females alternate in safeguarding their offspring.

8. Angelfish – With their elegant shape and vibrant colors, they are a favorite among snorkelers. Angelfish are known for their flat, round bodies and extended dorsal fin, giving them a distinct silhouette. Maui offers many excellent snorkeling and diving spots where angelfish can be observed in their natural habitats. Top places to see them include Molokini Crater, Honolua Bay, and the coral reefs on Maui’s west and south coasts.

9. Hawaiian Cleaner Wrasse – These small fish act as cleaning stations by removing parasites from other fish. These fish show bold stripes, with a black line down the middle of their body and bright blue above and below it. Hawaiian Cleaner Wrasses play an important role by removing parasites and keeping reef fish healthy.

10. Sergeant Major – Named for their military-style stripes, Sergeant Majors have silver bodies with five black vertical bars. They are easy to spot in large schools and are a favorite among snorkelers and divers.

11. Convict Tang – These fish have black-and-white stripes that look like a prisoner’s uniform. They are small and usually grow to about 6 inches long. They are known to form large schools, especially when feeding, which offers protection from predators.

12. Boxfish – have a hard, external shell made of hexagonal plate-like scales, which form a rigid, box-like carapace around their body. This armor protects from predators, but it limits their swimming speed and agility. Despite this, they are adept at maneuvering through the coral reefs using their fins. Boxfish come in various colors and patterns, including bright yellows, blues, and greens, often with spots or stripes that add to their visual appeal. Their slow swimming and curious behavior make them easy to photograph for snorkelers in Maui.

13. Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle – Though not a fish, sea turtles are one of the most loved encounters in Maui’s waters. They’ve lived in the ocean for over 100 million years.

In Hawaiian culture, the Honu is a symbol of wisdom, good luck, and longevity. They are revered in folklore and considered aumakua (guardian spirits) by some families. Respect for these creatures is part of local tradition and reminds us of the importance of harmony with nature.

Snorkeling Maui: Where to Snorkel in Maui

Maui is not just a harbor for tropical fish but also a top destination for snorkeling enthusiasts. Snorkeling Maui is an experience, and an opportunity to dip oneself into a world unlike any other. Here are some of the best snorkeling spots in Maui, where you’ll find plenty of tropical fish and make lasting memories.

Molokini Crater

This volcanic crater is partly underwater and is a marine preserve. Its waters are some of the clearest in Hawaii, with visibility up to 150 feet on a clear day. Home to over 250 species of fish, it’s a snorkeler’s paradise.

Molokini’s unique geographical structure also plays a significant role in its appeal. Because of its crescent shape, the crater is sheltered from waves and currents. This makes it a calm, safe place for sea life and a perfect spot for snorkeling and diving. This natural barrier allows even novice snorkelers to explore its wonders with ease.

Black Rock

Black Rock sits at the north end of Ka’anapali Beach and is known for its calm waters and rich marine life. It’s a great spot for both beginner and experienced snorkelers. Here, you can see many tropical fish and even Hawaiian green sea turtles swimming in their natural habitat!

Black Rock is also an important place in Hawaiian culture and history. According to legend, this place is a leina-a-ka‘uhane—a “soul’s leap” where spirits pass into the afterlife. It’s a spot where nature and Hawaiian culture come together, creating a meaningful experience.

Honolua Bay

A Marine Life Conservation District, Honolua Bay’s clear, calm waters are packed with tropical fish and healthy coral formations. The bay is a natural wonder that offers a serene snorkeling Maui experience.

The calm conditions within the bay provide a safe environment for snorkelers of all skill levels. Beginners can have fun in the shallow areas by the shore. Experienced snorkelers can swim farther out to see more sea life. The bay is sheltered from strong currents, keeping the water calm and easy to explore.

Turtle Town

Turtle Town is well-known for its Hawaiian green sea turtles, but it’s also home to many colorful tropical fish. The calm, clear waters make it a great snorkeling spot for families and snorkelers of all experience levels.

Beyond its beauty, Turtle Town is an important habitat for the Hawaiian green sea turtle. Once endangered, these turtles have made a comeback thanks to strong conservation efforts. A trip here is like walking into an outdoor classroom. You’ll get to see these creatures up close and understand more about protecting ocean life.

Turtle Town is easy to reach, safe for kids, and full of turtles and colorful fish, making it a perfect place to enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty.

Maui Snorkeling Boat Tours

Ready to see Maui’s tropical fish for yourself? Join our Maui Snorkeling Tours for your snorkeling adventure! We offer all-inclusive tours in Maui and the iconic Molokini Crater. Envision snorkeling in clear waters, surrounded by Hawaiian green sea turtles, tropical fish, and exploring vibrant coral reefs. Our tours provide a unique snorkeling experience. We offer both Morning and Afternoon packages all year long.

Savor meals, enjoy snacks, and drink coffee, tea, juices, and soft drinks on board. We equip you with quality snorkeling gear—snorkels, fins, optical masks, and flotation belts. Added fun includes boogie boards, a 25-foot water slide, and swimming noodles. Our tours, packed with activities, include a 5-hour trip to Molokini Crater and a second site (Turtle Town or Coral Gardens), and a 3-hour afternoon trip to Coral Gardens. We also offer Private & Group Charters for up to 67 passengers.

Tips for Snorkeling with Tropical Fish in Maui

Respect the Ocean: Always remember that you are a visitor in the marine environment. Do not touch or step on the coral or harass the wildlife. Touching or stepping on coral can cause significant damage to these slow-growing structures.

Corals are alive, not stone, and contact can damage their fragile polyps, weakening the reef around them. Likewise, disturbing marine animals by chasing, touching, or feeding them can cause stress and interrupt their natural behaviors.

Safety First: Safety should always come first when you’re in the water. Snorkeling is exciting, but it also has risks. The “Safety First” rule includes simple tips to keep your adventure fun and safe.

Snorkel with a Buddy: Venturing into the ocean should never be a solitary endeavor. Snorkeling with a companion is not just about enhancing the experience through shared memories; it’s a critical safety measure.

Monitor Ocean Conditions: The ocean is a dynamic environment, with conditions that can change rapidly. Before entering the water, it’s essential to observe the current, tide, and weather conditions. Strong currents and high waves can pose significant risks to snorkelers, potentially leading to exhaustion or disorientation. WHEN IN DOUBT, DON’T GO OUT!

Heed Local Advice: Locals, including lifeguards, tour operators, and experienced snorkelers, possess invaluable knowledge about the specific snorkeling site. They can tell you which areas to avoid, the safest times to snorkel, and the best spots to see marine life.

Preserve the Beauty: Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine life and keep the waters pristine for future generations. Traditional sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been shown to harm coral reefs and marine life. These chemicals speed up coral bleaching, which weakens corals and makes it harder for them to reproduce. This puts the whole reef at risk.

Reef-safe sunscreen lets visitors guard against the sun’s rays without adding damage to coral reefs and marine habitats.

Conclusion

Maui’s reefs rival its landscapes in beauty. Snorkeling is your ticket to an underwater rainbow of tropical fish and coral. Unlike freshwater tropical fish kept in home aquariums, Maui’s species thrive wild in the ocean, dazzling visitors at spots like Molokini Crater and Turtle Town. Book your Maui Snorkeling Boat Tour today and discover the magic beneath the sea!