Maui is world-renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters and abundance of sea life.
Snorkeling is one of the best ways to experience all that Maui has to offer underwater. With so many great snorkeling spots spread out across the island, it can be hard to know where to start.
To help you plan your next snorkeling adventure, we’ve put together a list of our top favorite snorkeling spots in Maui.
Here are some of the top snorkeling spots in Maui.
1. Snorkel in Lahaina
Lahaina is one of the best snorkeling spots in Maui. It’s easy to get there – just head to the west side of the island and you’ll find it. Lahaina is a great place to snorkel because of the clear water and the abundance of marine life. You’re sure to see plenty of fish, turtles, and other sea creatures when you go snorkeling in Lahaina. Be sure to bring your camera so you can capture the memories.
2. Molokini Crater
This is one of the most popular snorkeling spots on the island. It is a crescent each with its own unique features. Here are some of the best snorkeling spots in Maui it a popular destination for snorkeling. There are many different spots to snorkel on the island, but Molokini is definitely one of the best.
The crater is home to a variety of fish and other marine life, and the clear waters make it a great spot for seeing underwater creatures.
There are many different tour companies that offer snorkeling trips to Molokini, so it is easy to find one that fits your schedule and budget.
3. Honolua Bay
This bay is located on the northwest coast of Maui and is known for its clear blue waters. The bay is a popular spot for snorkeling, swimming, and surfing.
The Honolua Bay Marine Reserve was created in 1983 to protect the bay’s coral reefs from damage caused by human activity.
The reserve includes the entire bay, which is about 1,250 acres in size.
The best time to visit Honolua Bay is during the summer months, when the water is calm and clear.
4. Makena Beach State Park
Makena Beach State Park is one of the best snorkeling spots in Maui.
The beach is located on the south shore of the island and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
The park is home to a variety of fish, turtles, and other marine life, making it a perfect place for snorkeling. There are also several coral reefs in the area that are teeming with colorful fish.
Visitors can rent snorkeling gear from a number of businesses in the area, or bring their own.
5. La Perouse
One of the best snorkeling spots in Maui is La Perouse Bay.
This bay is located on the island’s south side and is known for its clear water and abundant marine life.
Visitors can see a variety of fish, turtles, and other marine creatures while snorkeling in this area.
6. Coral Gardens
Maui is home to some of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii. One of the most popular snorkeling destinations on the island is Coral Gardens.
Coral Gardens is located just off the coast of Maui in Lahaina. The best time to visit Coral Gardens is during the morning when there is less chance of high winds.
During your visit to Coral Gardens, you will have the opportunity to see a variety of tropical fish, including parrotfish, triggerfish, and damselfish. You may even spot a turtle or two. Coral reef gardens are best known for their abundance of colorful coral.
If you are looking for an enjoyable snorkeling experience, add Coral Gardens to your Maui itinerary.
7. Black Rock
This beach is located on the northwest coast of Maui and is known for its dramatic cliffs and pristine waters. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
Black Rock is located within the Lahaina Banyan Tree Park, which was created in 1983 to protect the natural beauty of the area.
The park includes Black Rock as well as the neighboring Honolua Bay.
Both beaches are great spots for snorkeling, but Black Rock is considered to be the better of the two.
The best time to visit Black Rock is during the summer months, when the water is calm and clear.
8. Kahekili Beach Park
This beach is located on the west coast of Maui and is known for its dramatic cliffs and pristine waters. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
Kahekili Beach Park is located within the Kaanapali Beach Resort, which was created in 1963 to protect the area’s natural beauty.
The park includes Kahekili Beach as well as the neighboring Black Rock.
Both beaches are great spots for snorkeling, but Kahekili Beach is considered to be the better of the two.
The best time to visit Kahekili Beach is during the summer months, when the water is calm and clear.
9. Ahihi Bay
If you’re looking for some of the best snorkeling spots in Maui, look no further than Ahihi Bay.
This secluded little beach is located on the island’s south coast and is known for its clear waters and abundant marine life.
Visitors can expect to see a variety of fish, turtles and even dolphins swimming in the bay.
While there are no lifeguards on duty, the bay is generally safe for swimming and snorkeling.
10. Turtle Town
Turtle Town is named after the green sea turtles often seen swimming in the area. This spot is located on the south side of Maui near the town of Kihei. To get to Turtle Town, you’ll need to take a short boat ride from one of the local beaches. Once you’re in the water, you’ll be able to see plenty of turtles and a variety of other marine life.
Snorkeling Advice
If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Maui, Hawaii, then you definitely want to spend some time exploring the best snorkeling spots the island has to offer.
Snorkeling is a great activity for all ages and levels of swimming ability, and it’s a great way to get up close and personal with the amazing underwater world.
Maui’s best snorkeling spots are found in the crystal clear waters off of Molokini Crater, Lanai Cathedrals, and Turtle Town.
Molokini Crater is a crescent-shaped volcanic crater that sits just offshore from Maui.
The Lanai Cathedrals are two massive rock formations that rise out of the water and provide shelter for various fish and other marine life.
Turtle Town is named for the large number of sea turtles that can be found swimming in the area.
When snorkeling in Maui, it’s important to remember to wear sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and take breaks often.
The best time to go snorkeling is early or later in the afternoon when the sun isn’t as strong.
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Thoughts and Conclusion
There are many wonderful snorkeling spots in Maui, and it can be tough to choose just one. However, we think these three spots are the best of the best.
Honokalani Beach is perfect for beginners and those who want to take in the beauty of the underwater world at a leisurely pace.
Molokini Crater is great for intermediate snorkelers who want to explore more and see amazing fish and coral.
And last but not least, Turtle Town is perfect for advanced snorkelers who want to swim with turtles and other marine life. No matter your expertise level, there’s a snorkeling spot in Maui that’s perfect for you.
These are just some of the best snorkeling spots in Maui. So get out there and explore all that this beautiful island has to offer!
