Peek into a crack in the reef while snorkeling in Waikiki and you might lock eyes with a moray eel, mouth slowly opening and closing, looking a little menacing. It is one of the reef's most misunderstood residents. So are moray eels actually dangerous? The short answer is: almost never, as long as you follow one simple rule. Here is what every Waikiki snorkeler should know.
Meet the Moray
Moray eels are snake-like fish that are very common on Hawaii's reefs, with more than 35 species in local waters. Most Hawaiian morays are small, under a couple of feet long, though a few grow much larger. They spend their days tucked into holes and crevices in the coral and rock, with just their head poking out. That open-and-close mouth motion that looks so threatening is actually just the eel breathing, pushing water over its gills.
Are They Dangerous?
Moray eels are not aggressive and have no interest in snorkelers. They are shy animals that would rather hide than fight. Nearly every moray bite happens for one reason: a person reaches into a hole or crevice where an eel is hiding, and the startled eel defends itself. Their teeth curve backward, so a bite can cause a ragged, infection-prone wound. The good news is that avoiding a bite is almost entirely in your control.
🐋 Moray Eel Quick Facts
- Common on Waikiki reefs, usually hidden in holes and crevices.
- Not aggressive; they want to avoid you, not attack you.
- The gaping mouth is just the eel breathing, not a threat.
- Bites almost always happen when someone reaches into a hole.
The One Golden Rule
Never put your hands into holes, cracks, or crevices in the reef. That is it. If you keep your hands to yourself and do not reach into dark spaces, your chances of a moray problem drop to nearly zero. This rule also protects the reef and other hidden creatures, and it keeps you away from sharp coral and spiny animals like sea urchins. Look with your eyes, not your hands.
Enjoy Them From a Distance
Spotting a moray eel is actually a treat. Hover calmly a few feet away and watch it breathe and survey its territory. Never try to touch, feed, or pull one out, and do not chase it for a photo. Give it space and it will simply ignore you and go about its day. Watching a wild moray behave naturally is far more rewarding than any risky close-up.
Explore the Reef Safely
Moray eels are just one of the fascinating animals hiding in plain sight on Waikiki's reefs, right alongside turtles, octopuses, and colorful fish. On a guided snorkel tour, the crew points out the reef's residents and shows you how to enjoy them safely and respectfully. Come discover who is peeking out of the coral.
Want to explore Waikiki's reef safely?
Our Turtle Canyon Snorkel Tour takes you to clear water full of tropical fish, turtles, and coral, with an experienced crew and all the gear included.
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