Molokini Crater
On both sides of the crater, divers can encounter a diverse array of Hawaiian reef fish. In the shallower areas, keep an eye out for captivating fields of garden eels swaying gracefully in the sandy seabed. On the backside, you may be fortunate enough to spot majestic manta and eagle rays, as well as sharks.
For more experienced divers, the "backside" of the crater provides a thrilling adventure. Here, the reef plummets to depths of hundreds of feet, offering the opportunity to witness larger pelagic marine life in all its splendor.
With impressive visibility reaching up to 32 meters and a maximum depth of 21 meters, Molokini Crater is suitable for both beginner and advanced divers. Whether you are just starting your diving journey or seeking thrilling encounters, this pristine Hawaiian site promises an unforgettable experience.
Don't wait any longer; plan your visit to Molokini Crater today and explore the mesmerizing underwater wonders it holds.
Diving Conditions Score for Molokini Crater
Very good diving conditions!
The score is based on a calculation of the current weather and sea conditions.
Dive Site Overview for Molokini Crater
Depth
21m
Visibility
32m
Experience Level
Weather Conditions for Molokini Crater
Wave Height
1.18m
Wind Speed
9.3 m/s
Water Temp
26.9°C
Visibility
49.16km
Cloud Cover
4%
Wave Period
11.35s
Air Temperature
27.3°C
Precipitation
0 mm
Dive Score Chart for Molokini Crater
Best time to dive: 15:00 with score 8.298508187134502/10. Water conditions: Waves 1.18m, Wind 6.5 m/s.Best night dive time: 5:00 with score 7.461626291079813/10.
Chart showing hourly dive conditions including wave height, wind speed, water temperature, and visibility throughout the day.
Optimal diving conditions at Molokini Crater are affected by daylight hours. Sunrise occurs at 06:00 and sunset at 18:00, which impacts visibility and water temperature for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Score: 8.3/10
Waves: 1.18m (11.4s), Wind: 6.5 m/s
Score: 7.5/10
Waves: 1.2m, Wind: 11.4 m/s
Seasonal Analysis for Molokini CraterAlpha
Historical patterns and best seasons for diving at Molokini Crater
The dive score combines all factors to rate overall diving conditions throughout the year. Higher scores indicate better diving conditions.
Monthly Dive Score Analysis - Seasonal Diving Conditions
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Seasonal DiveScore Chart
This chart displays monthly diveScore data throughout the year, showing seasonal patterns. The data is presented as a bar chart with an overlaid line graph.Dive scores range from 1 to 10, with 10 being optimal conditions.
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Best Season for Molokini Crater
Winter
Winter offers the best overall diving conditions with calmer seas and better visibility, despite cooler temperatures.
Best Months for Molokini Crater
Ideal Conditions for Molokini Crater
Water Temp
25.5°C / 77.9°F
July
Visibility
15.0m / 49.2ft
October
Wave Height
1.1m / 3.6ft
February
Wave Period
8.0s
January
Seasonal Insights for Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater shows typical northern hemisphere patterns with July being the warmest month (25.5°C) and January the coldest (19.4°C). The calmest conditions typically occur in February with average wave heights of 1.1m and wave periods of 8.0s. The most comfortable wave conditions are in February with a low wave steepness ratio, creating gentler swells. January offers the longest wave periods (8.0s), creating more comfortable and predictable conditions for boat entries and exits. Ocean currents are slowest in January (0.5m/s) and strongest in January (0.5m/s). January is usually the driest month with 0.0mm of precipitation. For beginners, the best time to visit would be during February to April, when ocean conditions are calmer with long-period waves and currents are typically weaker. Experienced divers might enjoy the challenges and potentially better visibility during the shoulder seasons, with moderate currents that can improve marine life encounters.
Last updated: 1 min. ago - Jun 20, 2026