Hawaii is famous worldwide for the diversity of its wildlife on land. However, it also offers the chance to get up close and personal with its sea creatures, which you can experience while on a snorkeling trip. The reefs off the coast of the islands are home to dozens of fish species. Here are some you can look forward to meeting during your next visit to Maui.

What Fish Can You See in Maui’s Waters?

1. Rainbow Butterfly Fish

Butterfly fishes are a group of more than 100 tropical species noted for their patterned bodies in colors ranging from vibrant yellow to deep purple and black. The rainbow variety is typically found in water shallower than 65 feet. Because it is one of the most colorful and plentiful marine creatures, it’s a popular sight on snorkeling trips.

At the front, a rainbow butterfly fish’s face is a combination of black and yellow striping. The rest of its body includes alternating horizontal blue and deep golden yellow strips. Its rear is often deep blue or even purple, with flashes of rich orange along the base of the tailfin.

2. Black Triggerfish

More than 40 species of triggerfish inhabit reefs around the world, with 10 found in Hawaii’s waters. Unlike most fish, they can produce sounds to communicate with others to warn them of danger.

The Black Durgon, or Black Triggerfish, is one of the most visually arresting of these creatures. Appearing at first to be solid black, they’re revealed to have a stunning range of colors on their bodies when viewed at close range, varying in different lighting conditions. 

3. Convict Tang

Convict tangs, also called the manini, belong to the surgeonfishes and feature sharp, scalpel-like scales near their tailfins. They get their name from their broad black vertical stripes on a white or yellowish body, similar to those found on some prison uniforms. Although they can descend to depths of up to 300 feet, they often frequent warmer waters around coral reefs and in tide pools, where you can spot them feeding on algae.

See these creatures and other dazzling ocean life on a snorkeling trip with Sea Maui in Lahaina, HI. They offer morning, afternoon, and half-day tours of West Maui and Lanai, allowing you to view countless marine species from a few feet away. Call (808) 732-6284 to book a tour today, and visit them online to learn more about their activities.