While snorkeling, you’ll encounter many beautiful fish in the Pacific Ocean. Learn to recognize some of them in the guide below to prepare for your trip and heighten your appreciation.

5 Fish You May See While Snorkeling in Hawaii

1. Moorish Idol

Made famous as Frank in “Finding Nemo,” the Moorish idol is a flat, tall fish with black and white stripes. On its dorsal fin and nose, there are little splashes of yellow, and its dark mouth makes it look like it’s wearing black lipstick. It’s commonly seen in reefs and can be as big as 29 cm tall.

2. Black Triggerfish

You’ll find these football-shaped fish in schools, as they’re docile and easily startled. They may seem black and small from far away, but up close, they have gorgeous splashes of green and blue on their fins and can grow to 50 cm.

3. Trumpetfish

Named after the musical instrument, the Trumpetfish is long and thin; it will practically disappear when you view it straight on. Orange with white stripes and black dots, it swims near the ocean floor. 

4. Yellowfin Goatfish

Despite their name, these fish don’t look like goats. They’re long, grey, and have yellowfins. They like to swim in groups close to the sandy bottoms of the reef.

5. Raccoon Butterflyfish

You’ll likely see many kinds of butterflyfish when snorkeling. The raccoon butterflyfish, in particular, resembles its namesake with black and white stripes across its face. It can grow to 20 cm, which is small for a tropical fish. It tends to congregate in schools in the hundreds near coral reefs.

Find these fish while snorkeling with Ko Olina Ocean Adventures in Kapolei. As part of the Hawaii Ecotourism Association, this company offers sustainable ways to see sea life around Oahu, whether you’re interested in staying above the surface with catamaran sailing or immersing yourself with SNUBA® diving. Call (808) 396-2068 to reserve a spot today, or learn more about their programs online.