“Incredible Corals: Night at the Reef” will feature coral stations, presentations, stargazing and a chance to see corals spawn in person. PHOTOS COURTESY OF MAUI OCEAN CENTER.

MAALAEA – On Monday, July 24, enjoy an evening under the stars at Maui Ocean Center’s iconic summer coral event, “Incredible Corals: Night at the Reef,” featuring coral stations, presentations, stargazing and a chance to see corals spawn in person.

Throughout the evening, guests will have the rare opportunity to explore the aquarium after dark while learning about coral reefs and spawning.

Visit the Coral Explore Station to see live coral feeding, engage in a build-a-polyp coral activity and learn how to protect Hawaii’s coral reefs.

Dive presentations among sharks and rays will also take place throughout the night in the 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit.

Coral experts and environmental organizations will be present, including keynote speaker and coral biologist Dave Gulko of the Hawaii Department of Land & Natural Resources’ Division of Aquatic Resources.

Based on the summer lunar cycle, it is predicted that rice corals around Maui and those on exhibit at Maui Ocean Center will spawn on this night.

Under a starry sky, guests will have the opportunity to stargaze with telescopes and learn about Hawaiian celestial navigation during “Navigation by the Stars” presented by astronomer Rakhal Kincaid.

The evening also includes live music and shopping at the Maui Ocean Treasures gift shop. A no-host bar, heavy pupus, snacks, desserts and refreshments will be available for purchase at the Reef Caf, featuring an outdoor grilling station by Seascape Restaurant.

A portion of event proceeds will be donated to the Maui Ocean Center Marine Institute, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and release threatened and endangered Hawaiian sea turtles, maintain a repository for rare and endemic Hawaiian corals and provide educational opportunities in marine sciences and conservation.

While coral spawning is predicted to occur on July 24, it is not guaranteed due to numerous environmental variables. The event will take place from 6:30 to 10 p.m.

For more information and ticket purchases, visit www.mauioceancenter.com/incrediblecorals or call (808) 270-7000.

Event admission discounts are available for Hawaii residents, U.S. Military and Annual Pass holders.