The only U.S.-based location in which CORAL currently works, the Hawaiian Islands are home to hundreds of fish species, many of which can be easily seen by recreational snorkelers and divers. A popular destination for visitors from around the world, Hawaii is a migratory route for humpback whales and home to the Hawaiin monk seal, the state's only endemic marine mammal (jump to map).

Reef Biodiversity

  • Almost 25 percent of Maui’s reef fish are endemic (found only in the Hawaiian Islands).
  • More than 40 species of sharks
  • 62 species of coral
  • 400 reef fish species

Reef Facts

  • Hawaiian monk seals are among the most endangered seal species in the world and are the only marine mammal endemic to Hawaii.
  • Hawaii’s coral reefs shelter more than 700 species of fish, 400 of which can be found in waters less than 200 feet deep.
  • At least 6,000 humpback whales migrate to Hawaii each winter to mate, give birth, and care for their young.
  • Maui has approximately 100,000 permanent residents (and is the third largest island population in Hawaii).
  • The island's chief industries are tourism and the cultivation of sugarcane and pineapples.


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Honolua Bay
Honalua Bay

Honolua Bay is located on the northwest tip of the island of Maui. Along with the adjacent Mokuleia Bay, Honolua was designated a Marine Life Conservation District (MLCD) in 1978. Reef platforms extend from the shoreline on both sides of the bay. Honolua’s reefs are home to resident green turtles and abundant fish species.

Photo credit: CORAL staff