Snorkeling in Molokai

During the times when swimming is safe—mainly in summer—just about every beach on Molokai offers good snorkeling along the lava outcroppings in the island's clean and pristine waters. Rough in winter, Kepuhi Beach is a prime spot in summer. Certain spots inside the South Shore Reef are also worth checking out.

Best Spots

Kepuhi Beach. In winter, the sea here is rough and deadly. But in summer, this ½-mile-long west-end beach offers plenty of rocky nooks that swirl with sea life. The presence of outdoor showers is a bonus. Take Kaluakoi Road all the way to the west end. Park at the now-closed Kaluakoi Resort and walk to the beach. Kaluakoi Rd., Maunaloa, HI, 96770.

Waialua Beach Park. A thin curve of sand rims a sheltered little bay loaded with coral heads and aquatic life. The water here is shallow—sometimes so shallow that you bump into the underwater landscape—and it's crystal clear. Head to the east end on Route 450, and pull off near mile marker 20. When the sea is calm, you can find several other good snorkeling spots along this stretch of road. Rte. 450, Kaunakakai, HI, 96748.

Equipment and Tours

Rent snorkel sets from either Molokai Outdoors or Molokai Fish and Dive in Kaunakakai. Rental fees are nominal—$6 to $10 a day. All the charter boats carry snorkel gear and include dive stops.

Fun Hogs Sportfishing. Mike Holmes, captain of the 27-foot Ahi, knows the island waters intimately, likes to have fun, and is willing to arrange any type of excursion—for example, one dedicated entirely to snorkeling. His two-hour snorkel trips leave early in the morning and explore rarely seen fish and turtle sites outside the reef. Bring your own food and drinks; the trips cost $70 per person. Kaunakakai Wharf, Kaunakakai Pl., Kaunakakai, HI, 96748. 808/567-6789 or 808/336-0047. www.molokaifishing.com.

Molokai Fish and Dive. Climb aboard a 31-foot twin-hull Power Cat for a snorkeling trip to Molokai's pristine barrier reef. Trips cost $79 per person and include equipment, water, and soft drinks. 61 Ala Malama St., Kaunakakai, HI, 96748. 808/553-5926. www.molokaifishanddive.com.