Written by the Maui Snorkeling team, operating Molokini and Turtle Town tours out of Maʻalaea Harbor since 1985. We spend more days in these waters than on land!
Last updated: December 2025
Quick List: 10 Things you Should Never do when Snorkeling in Maui
- Touch, ride, or chase turtles, fish, or any wildlife
- Stand on, kick, or grab coral
- Throw trash or food into the ocean
- Feed fish, turtles, or whales
- Snorkel alone or ignore your buddy
- Ignore ocean conditions, brown water, or warning signs
- Use non‑reef‑safe sunscreen with banned chemicals like oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Wear a full‑face snorkel mask on Maui tours
- Drink alcohol before getting in the water
- Keep snorkeling if you feel short of breath, dizzy, or unwell
Photo Courtesy of The S.C.U.B.A. Doctor
Have you ever wondered about the things you should never do when snorkeling in Maui? If so, you’re in luck with this blog post!
Snorkeling in Maui is a breathtaking experience for most first-time snorkelers. The rush of emotions that comes over you as you enter the waters at Molokini Crater is something that you will never forget. The beauty of marine life and the freedom that you feel floating on the surface will be difficult to replicate. But with great opportunity comes great responsibility!
Here are the Top 10 Things You Should Never Do When Snorkeling in Maui at Molokini Crater and around other various snorkeling locations in Hawaii. Actually, there are many more things you should never do while snorkeling in Maui, but here are what we believe are the Top 10!
Top 10 Things You Should Never Do When Snorkeling in Maui
1. Never Make Contact with any Marine Life at any Time
Encountering a Hawaiian green sea turtle up close is an incredibly exciting experience, and it’s natural to feel an impulse to reach out and touch it! We understand that urge completely. However, we must prioritize the long-term health of our marine ecosystem. To ensure that future generations can witness the beauty of these majestic creatures, we need to respect their space.
Human contact can disrupt their natural behaviors, potentially spreading harmful bacteria or causing additional stress. By resisting the temptation to touch sea turtles or any other marine life, we contribute to their well-being and help preserve the delicate balance of Maui’s marine environment. Let’s work together to protect these animals and ensure their continued presence in our oceans!
And never stand on or grab the coral. Coral reefs are living animals, and even a single kick or step can break or kill them. Keep your fins up, float horizontally, and avoid touching the reef with your hands or feet.
2. Never Throw Anything into the Water
We all understand the importance of keeping our oceans clean, and that means more than just avoiding obvious trash. It’s crucial to remember that even seemingly harmless items, like food scraps or drink remnants, should never be thrown into the sea. While some materials might be labeled ‘biodegradable,’ that doesn’t mean they disappear instantly or without consequence in the ocean’s delicate ecosystem!
Even the smallest piece of food can disrupt the natural balance, attracting certain species while potentially harming others. It can introduce foreign bacteria, alter feeding patterns, and negatively impact the overall health of the marine life in the region. Let’s be mindful of every item we bring on board and ensure that nothing, not even a crumb, enters the ocean. Our collective effort to protect these waters makes a significant difference.
3. Never Feed the Whales or Fish
Imagine the thrill of being surrounded by vibrant fish and curious sea creatures! It’s tempting to share your snacks and see them gather, but please resist the urge. Introducing food into the water, even if it seems like a small treat, can have significant and unforeseen consequences. It disrupts the natural feeding patterns of marine animals, making them dependent on human handouts instead of their natural food sources.
This can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health problems. Additionally, foreign food can introduce invasive species or bacteria, upsetting the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Please enjoy your snacks on board and dispose of any leftovers properly. Let’s keep our marine environment healthy and thriving by remembering that if you can’t eat it, trash it!
4. Don’t Rush – Swim Smoothly
If you’re new to snorkeling, you might think that kicking and splashing like crazy will get you around faster. But trust us, the underwater world is all about taking it slow and steady! Think of it like this: the smoother your movements, the more you become one with the water, gliding effortlessly like a graceful sea turtle.
First time snorkeling? Our Maui Snorkeling for Beginners
guide explains breathing, flotation, and beginner‑friendly beaches step‑by‑step.
Fast, jerky movements actually create more resistance, slowing you down and using up your energy. So, relax those muscles, take long, slow strokes, and breathe deeply. The more you chill out, the faster and farther you’ll glide through the water. Plus, you’ll have way more energy to enjoy the amazing underwater scenery!
Tip: Never snorkel alone. Even in calm, clear water, always snorkel with a buddy or in a supervised group. If something feels off—strong current, gear problem, shortness of breath—having another person with you is one of the biggest safety advantages you can give yourself.
Never ignore bad conditions or brown water. Check Maui’s wind, swell, and water quality using the official resources in our Maui Snorkel Conditions 101 guide. Skip any spot with brown water after rain or posted hazard flags.
5. Don’t Ignore your Fellow Passengers when on a Snorkeling Boat in Maui
It’s amazing how a simple ‘hello’ can instantly brighten someone’s day! And let’s be honest, striking up a conversation takes way less effort than awkwardly avoiding eye contact. Plus, on our snorkeling tours, you’ll be spending a few hours with the same awesome people, sharing an incredible experience. Why not break the ice and make some new friends?
You might be surprised at the connections you make and the stories you share. Everyone’s already buzzing with excitement to explore Maui’s underwater world, so embrace the good vibes and spread the aloha spirit! Who knows, you might even find a snorkel buddy for life!
Beyond making friends, chatting with your fellow passengers is a great way to find a snorkel buddy. Agree to keep an eye on each other in the water and check in every few minutes—that simple step is one of the most powerful safety tools you have.
Maui Snorkeling Tours
Don’t miss the chance to snorkel at Molokini Crater and Turtle Town! Limited spots are available, so book your Maui Snorkeling Tour now and experience the best of Hawaii’s underwater world!
6. Never use Sunscreen that is not Reef-Safe or Reef-Friendly
Did you know that some sunscreen ingredients can harm coral reefs? It’s true! Chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate have been shown to damage coral, making them more vulnerable to bleaching, causing DNA damage, and even leading to deformities in baby coral. That’s why we’re passionate about protecting Maui’s reefs.
We provide reef-safe sunscreen on the Lani Kai II so you can enjoy your snorkeling adventure while knowing you’re helping to keep our oceans healthy. Just ask any of our crew members, and they’ll happily hook you up with some reef-friendly sunscreen!
In fact, the State of Hawaiʻi and Maui County both restrict harmful sunscreen chemicals—only mineral sunscreens are allowed to be sold or used without a prescription here—so choosing mineral‑only SPF isn’t just better for the reef, it’s the local rule.
7. Don’t Climb on Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater is a sight to behold! This incredible crescent-shaped island, rising dramatically from the ocean, is actually a partially submerged volcanic crater. As you approach, you might feel the urge to hop off the boat and explore its rocky slopes. But hold on a sec! Molokini is a protected marine sanctuary and a haven for diverse marine life.
To preserve its delicate ecosystem, access to the island itself is restricted. But don’t worry, the real magic happens beneath the surface! The crystal-clear waters surrounding Molokini offer some of the best snorkeling in Maui, teeming with colorful fish and fascinating coral formations.
8. Don’t Wear a Full-Face Snorkeling Mask
Full-face snorkel masks might seem like a cool idea, but there are some important safety concerns to consider. Groups like the Divers Alert Network have raised red flags about potential issues with carbon dioxide buildup and difficulty clearing water from the mask. CBS News even did a story outlining these risks!
Because your safety is our top priority, most Maui Snorkeling tour operators, including us, have decided to prohibit the use of full-face masks on our trips. But don’t worry, traditional snorkel gear works fantastically, and we provide everything you need to have an amazing and safe snorkeling experience!
9. Don’t Drink Alcohol Before Entering the Water
Maui is the perfect place to unwind with your favorite beverage! Picture this: you’ve just spent an amazing morning exploring vibrant coral reefs and swimming with sea turtles. Now, it’s time to relax on the boat, soak up the sun, and enjoy a refreshing drink. We do have one small request: please wait until after you’re done snorkeling to indulge.
We want to ensure everyone stays safe in the water. Feel free to bring your own alcoholic beverages on board (BYOB), and once you’ve had your fill of snorkeling and waterslide adventures, you’re more than welcome to enjoy your drinks responsibly. Cheers to an unforgettable Maui experience!
10. Don’t Lose Track of Your Surroundings
Snorkeling with sea turtles in Turtle Town is an absolutely magical experience! You’ll be surrounded by them as they gracefully glide through the water. It’s so captivating that it’s easy to lose yourself in the moment and forget where you are. While our crew members are always on the lookout to ensure everyone’s safety, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings.
Remember to keep an eye on the boat, be mindful of other snorkelers, and avoid drifting too far from the group. By staying alert and respecting the ocean environment, you can fully enjoy the incredible experience of swimming with these amazing creatures!
Important: If you feel unusually short of breath, dizzy, or extremely tired, stop immediately. Snorkeling deaths in Hawaiʻi are now believed to be linked in many cases to a condition called snorkel‑induced rapid onset pulmonary edema (SI‑ROPE), where fluid can build up in the lungs without a lot of splashing or obvious distress.
If breathing suddenly feels harder, or you just “don’t feel right,” calmly signal your buddy or crew, float on your back, and get back to the boat or shore.
There you have it! This is a quick list of the top 10 things you should never do when snorkeling in Maui. Follow those suggestions, and you will have the best time. You will leave Molokini Crater, Turtle Town, and Coral Gardens in the same condition you experienced. Leaving it for everyone to enjoy for generations to come! Mahalo!
Note: If sharks are your biggest fear, our Sharks in Maui: How Common Are Shark Encounters? article puts the stats in perspective.
For more on official snorkel safety in Hawaiʻi, see:
FAQ
Is snorkeling in Maui safe?
Yes — snorkeling in Maui is safe when you choose reputable tours and follow basic ocean-safety guidelines. Conditions can change quickly, so always listen to your crew and stay aware of waves, currents, and your comfort level.
Can I touch or swim right next to sea turtles in Maui?
No — Hawaiian green sea turtles are protected by law, and touching or crowding them can result in fines. Give them plenty of space and enjoy watching them from a respectful distance.
Are full-face snorkel masks allowed on Maui snorkeling tours?
Most Maui tours do not recommend or allow full-face masks because they can limit airflow and make clearing water from the mask difficult. Traditional masks and snorkels are safer and easier for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
Is it OK to snorkel alone?
It’s always better to snorkel with a buddy or join a guided tour. Having someone nearby greatly increases safety in case of fatigue, currents, or equipment issues.
What should I do if I feel short of breath while snorkeling?
Stop, stay calm, and float on your back while taking slow, steady breaths. Signal your buddy or crew so they can assist if needed, and return to the boat or shore to rest.
Do I really need reef-safe sunscreen in Hawaiʻi?
Yes — Hawaiʻi requires reef-safe sunscreen to help protect coral reefs from harmful chemicals. Mineral sunscreens (zinc or titanium-based) are the safest choice for the ocean and your skin.
If you’d rather have a captain handle conditions, gear, and safety briefings, our Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour is a low‑stress way to see everything in this guide in real life.
