If you plan to snorkel in Maui, you’re in for a treat. The waters around this beautiful island are home to various colorful and vibrant fish. From delicate reef dwellers to playful tropical species, the fish of Maui snorkeling are sure to leave a lasting impression. Let’s look at some of the most common fish you’ll encounter when snorkeling around Maui.
Hawaiian Surgeonfish (Acanthurus triostegus)
One of the most recognizable fish you’ll spot while snorkeling in Maui is the Hawaiian surgeonfish, also known as the Kole. These small, oval-shaped fish have a bright yellow tail and a blueish-gray body. They’re often seen grazing on algae along the reefs, where they help keep the coral clean. Their vibrant colors make them a favorite among snorkelers, and their curious nature means they’ll often swim right up to you!
Moorish Idol (Zanclus cornutus)
The Moorish idol is another popular sight in Maui’s waters with its striking black, white, and yellow stripes. These graceful fish have long, flowing dorsal fins and are often seen swimming around coral heads or near the reefs. Though they might look delicate, Moorish idols are quite resilient and frequently spotted in shallow, tropical waters. Keep an eye out for them near Kaanapali or Lahaina!
Parrotfish (Scarinae)
The colorful parrotfish is hard to miss. With its vibrant green, blue, and purple hues, this fish is one of the most eye-catching in the sea. Parrotfish get their name from their beak-like teeth, which they use to scrape algae off rocks and coral. These fish are vital to the ecosystem, as they help maintain the health of coral reefs by eating algae that would otherwise smother them. The byproduct of their reef munchies is much of the sand you see on Maui. You’ll often spot them near rocky areas or coral beds, especially in places like Kapalua Bay, Honolua and Olowalu.
Hawaiian Triggerfish (Rhinecanthus rectangulus)
The Hawaiian triggerfish, or humuhumunukunukuapua’a, is the state fish of Hawaii. Its name is as long as its colors are bright! This fish has a distinctive appearance, with a rectangular body, sharp spines on its back, and vibrant markings. Triggerfish are often seen darting through the water around coral reefs, and although they can be a bit territorial, they generally won’t cause any trouble for snorkelers. Look for them at popular snorkeling spots like Molokini Crater.
Yellow Tang (Zebrasoma flavescens)
The yellow tang is another iconic fish commonly spotted while snorkeling in Maui. Its bright yellow body and black markings make it one of the most colorful fish in the Pacific Ocean. These fish often swim in large schools, especially around coral reefs where they graze on algae. They’re harmless and playful, making them a fun sight for snorkelers. You’ll likely see them at places like the island of Lanai, Honolua Bay, Napili Bay or Makena Beach.
Wrasse (Labridae)
Wrasses are a large family of fish that come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. The six-line wrasse, with its vivid blue stripes and active nature, is one of the most common species in Maui. Wrasses often swim in and out of coral crevices or feed on small invertebrates. Their playful behavior makes them a favorite among snorkelers. Look for them in shallow reef areas where they seek shelter from larger predators.
Butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae)
With their butterfly-like shape and colorful patterns, butterflyfish are some of Maui’s most beautiful and fascinating fish. These fish have large, round bodies with black, white, and yellow markings. They tend to swim in pairs and are often seen near coral reefs, feeding on small invertebrates and algae. These peaceful fish are fun to watch as they glide gracefully through the water, often around Kapalua Bay or Lahaina reefs like Honolua Bay, Olowalu and Launiupoko.
Sea Turtles (Cheloniidae)
Although not technically a fish, sea turtles are an unforgettable part of Maui’s marine life and are commonly spotted while snorkeling. The Hawksbill are rare, but the Green Sea Turtles are particularly abundant around Maui’s reefs. These gentle creatures often swim gracefully through the water and can be seen basking on the beach or resting on coral beds. They are a true highlight of any snorkeling trip.
If you’re looking to encounter these beautiful fish and more, we offer eco-friendly snorkel tours that let you get up close to Maui’s marine life. Our small, intimate group tours are the perfect way to snorkel with no crowds, and our team of marine naturalists will guide you through the process, ensuring you feel safe and informed every step of the way.
At Hawaii Ocean Rafting, we’re passionate about offering authentic, hands-on experiences, and we look forward to sharing Maui’s underwater world with you!