Maui Snorkeling
Maui is the second largest Hawaiian Island, and has 120 miles of coast with 30 miles of pristine beaches perfect for water sports, especially snorkeling. Maui is a favorite year round destination not only for adventurers, couples, and families, but also for various marine life. Some of the best snorkeling in Maui can be found close to your accommodations on the Valley Isle. Don’t have gear? No problem! There are many options for Maui snorkel gear rentals along with local, outfitter-lead, snorkeling trips to Maui coves, craters, and more.
Why Maui Snorkeling is Great
In Maui, it is easy to see an array of tropical fish, corals, and turtles underneath the water. Maui’s waters are prized for their clarity and abundance of turtles, manta rays, dolphins, and whales. Along the south side of the island, there are renowned Maui snorkeling conditions – shoreline access, protected from the wind, and stellar visibility. The Molokini Crater is well known for diving and snorkeling trips. Plus, Maui’s inviting water is warm, seventy-five degrees, all year round.
Where to Go Snorkeling in Maui
The best snorkeling in Maui is by far on the leeward side of the island. Some of the best snorkeling in Maui for beginners is along the six miles of beach in Kihei. For a delightful combination of reef and marine life snorkeling, local outfitters and visitors rave about Makena Landing, Turtle Town, Ahihi-Kinau Nature Reserve, Olowalu Marine Sanctuary, and Honolua Bay Marine Life Conservation District.
Makena Landing
Just a short drive from Kihei and Wailea, Makena Landing is a sheltered cove ideal for snorkelers and divers. The reef walls and caves provide a plethora of marine life, including opportunities for snorkeling with turtles.
Turtle Town
A short drive from Makena Landing, you will find Turtle Town (aka Maluaka Beach). This gem’s nickname says it all. At Turtle Town Maui, snorkeling with sea turtles is unforgettable, but don’t worry there are other marine life to witness, including octopus, trumpet fish, triggerfish, eels, rays, and more.
Ahihi-Kinau Nature Reserve
Ahihi-Kinau Nature Reserve has been a protected area since 1973. Visitors are allowed to witness only a portion of it, but it is worth it. Snorkel in protected coves framed by volcanic rocks and reefs. Ahihi Bay is the best Maui snorkeling spot for beginners as it is a beach entry with a sheltered bay.
Olowalu Marine Sanctuary
Located between Kihei and Lahaina, Olowalu Marine Sanctuary is a favorite spot for snorkeling, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding because of its gentle waters and the probability of marine life sightings. The Olowalu Reef (aka Turtle Cleaning Station) is a sanctuary for green sea turtles, tropical fish, and reef sharks. Some of the best Maui snorkeling tours start from here to see not only turtles, but monk seals, rays, reef sharks, and in season humpback whales.
Honolua Bay Marine Life Conservation District
If you are looking for snorkeling in Lahaina Maui, Honolua Bay is the closest and best West side snorkeling. Many of the best Maui snorkeling tours come to the bay by catamaran to moor in the protected bay. However, you can also drive to Honolua Bay and walk to the rock beach. Be aware: parking is limited. Prepare for a walk with your snorkeling gear. In any case, Honolua Bay has great reef snorkeling with turtles, parrot fish, triggerfish, and an occasional reef or tiger shark.
When to Go Snorkeling in Maui
All year, Maui is great for snorkeling. However, if you are looking to avoid the crowds, plan for April to May and fall from September through November. The busiest seasons are summer and winter. Regardless of the month you visit, the best time to snorkel in Maui is early morning. This is when the winds are the calmest; plus, the seas are flatter allowing for better visibility for underwater treasures such as the good omen of the sea turtle (honu).
Getting to Maui
There are direct flights from various domestic airports to Kahului, Maui (OGG) airport. From the West Coast of the United States, the flight time is a little over five hours. If your favorite airport doesn’t have a direct flight, you can also book a flight to Honolulu and take a short, second leg of only forty minutes to Kahului, Maui. It is wise to rent a car while in Maui as it is one of the largest of the Hawaiian Islands with many interesting adventures that require a vehicle to get to the best beaches, trailheads, and/or kayak launches.
Maui Snorkeling Rentals and Tours
TripOutside features the absolute best Maui snorkeling tours and snorkel gear rental in Maui. Our Maui guides and outfitters are all four-star rated or above, and are some of the most experienced snorkeling experts in all of Hawaii. We take the guesswork out of booking a Maui snorkeling trip – all of our outfitters provide top notch service and safety. Some outfitters even offer the option for a combined snorkel and kayak or SUP trip, if you’re looking for the ultimate adventure!
Maui Snorkeling FAQs
Can you snorkel off the beach in Maui?
Yes, you can absolutely snorkel off the beach. Maui snorkeling beaches that are worth a visit are Maluaka Beach (aka Turtle Town), Makena Landing, and Olowalu Beach. You can also snorkel off the extensive beach in Kihei.
Can you snorkel with turtles in Maui?
Yes, you can snorkel with turtles in Maui. Remember to look, but do not touch. A little known fact, sea turtles (honu) are good luck in Hawaii.
Can you snorkel on your own in Maui?
Absolutely, you can snorkel on your own in Maui. However, it is best to be a good swimmer and in good physical condition. If you want to be safe as well as get insider’s knowledge, you can start with a Maui snorkeling tour. This will hone your skills as well as get tips about tides, currents, and wind from your guides.
Which side of Maui is best for snorkeling?
The leeward side (south side) of Maui is the best for snorkeling. The windward side is for wind sports and not for gentle snorkeling. The snorkeling conditions Maui, even on the south side, can change quickly. Be aware of tides, currents, and winds.
What is the best time of day to snorkel in Maui? Is it safe?
The best time to snorkel is the morning hours. This is before the winds pick up and the sea becomes choppy reducing visibility. If you only have the afternoon, choose a cove or bay such as Makena Landing or Honolua Bay. Snorkeling in Maui is safe if you follow the guidance of the local outfitters and the weather forecast.
