snorkeling excursions on maui

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The 9 best maui snorkeling tours.

Some of Maui's best scenery is beneath its waters. These tours will help you see it all.

The Best Maui Snorkeling Tours

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See Maui's underwater world on a snorkeling tour.

Picturesque coastlines with unique topography and diverse ecosystems not only make snorkeling one of the best things to do in Maui , but they also make the island one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive in the U.S. There are three well-known snorkeling zones on and around the island, including the South Shore, Kaanapali and the Upper West. These areas include several of Maui's most popular snorkeling sites, such as the underwater reef at Molokini Crater and Turtle Town, also known as Turtle Arches.

Situated approximately 3 miles off the southwest shores of Maui, Molokini is a crescent-shaped atoll that formed from the remains of a volcanic eruption that occurred roughly 230,000 years ago. The calm waters around this protected area offer excellent visibility of up to 200 feet, as well as the ability to see approximately 250 species of endemic fish and marine life. Sightings could include parrotfish, black triggerfish, moray eels, manta rays, dolphins, octopuses and even whitetip reef sharks. And if you're lucky, you may see migrating humpback whales around the crater during whale season, which occurs from November to March.

Snorkelers also come to the Valley Isle to swim with green sea turtles at Turtle Town on Maui's southwestern coast. In addition to the turtles, a wide variety of tropical fish and other marine life populate the coral reefs and lava formations.

No matter where you want to snorkel, it's best to book a tour with a knowledgeable and experienced guide. The daily weather and snorkeling conditions (think: poor visibility or strong currents) vary significantly on the island, which can make discerning the best days to go out difficult – even if you consult a local snorkeling report. That's where trained local guides can make or break your snorkeling experience. U.S. News identified the following outings as the best available consulting both expert opinion and traveler sentiment.

Maui Magic – Morning Molokini Adventure Snorkel

Price: Adults from $180; kids from $140 Duration: 5 hours

Maui Magic's early morning tour, which lasts five hours, departs at 6:30 a.m. from Ma'alaea. The excursion not only includes a stop at Molokini Crater, but also another stop at a specially selected location chosen by the captain. During this half-day trip, tour-takers can snorkel alongside colorful reefs populated with tropical fish and may also see dolphins, sea turtles and humpback whales (during the winter months). Most reviewers enjoy the fun vibe on board the boat and mention that the captain and crew are friendly and knowledgeable. Several called the tour the highlight of their Maui vacation.

Prices start at $180 for adults and $140 for children ages 5 to 12. The company does not recommend the trip for kids 4 and younger. Prices include snorkeling gear, breakfast, a midmorning snack, a barbecue lunch and nonalcoholic beverages. Complimentary wine, beer and cocktails are available on the way back to the dock. Participants can also choose to snuba, which allows swimmers to dive several feet beneath the water's surface without the training required for scuba diving. Snuba gear costs an additional $69. Know that extra charges apply for use of underwater digital cameras and wetsuits. The company also runs private charters.

View & Book Tickets: Maui Magic

Maui Snorkel Charters

Price: Adults from $180; kids from $170 Duration: 4 hours

Maui Snorkel Charters' four-hour tour visits Molokini Crater and up to six other snorkeling spots. The additional locations vary, as the crew will only take you to spots with the best conditions on the day of your tour. Animal sightings may include octopuses, tropical fish, sea turtles and humpback whales (in the winter). The company's custom-built, 40-foot boat seats 26 passengers; however, each charter takes no more than 18 individuals. Patrons rave about the tour and the personable and knowledgeable crew. Many reviewers also appreciated the small boat and small group size, which they say create an intimate experience.

Outings cost approximately $180 per participant 13 and older and about $170 for children 5 to 12. Prices include all gear, a light snack and reef-safe sunscreen. (Note: If you want to tip your guide, bring cash.) Tour availability varies by month, but generally, trips run daily from 7 to 11 a.m. and leave from the Kihei Boat Ramp, which sits 2 ½ miles north of Wailea Beach . The company also offers private snorkel charters.

View & Book Tickets: Maui Snorkel Charters

Trilogy Excursions – Discover Molokini

Price: Adults from $190; kids from $135 Duration: 5 hours

Set sail to Molokini for a five-hour snorkeling adventure aboard Trilogy's 54-foot catamaran. You'll start your tour enjoying a continental breakfast on board the boat before arriving at the submerged crater for snorkeling. Then, you'll head to a second snorkeling location (usually Turtle Town, but the exact destination will depend on the weather) before enjoying a barbecue lunch. Reviewers praise the crew for their clear instructions and attention to safety. Travelers also call out the delicious food and drinks as highlights.

Tickets start at $190 for adults, $175 for youths ages 13 to 17 and $135 for kids ages 3 to 12. Tours depart daily at either 7 or 8 a.m., depending on which slip at Ma'alaea Harbor

your chosen tour is departing from. Looking for a more low-key activity? Consider the company's sunset sail.

View & Book Tickets: Trilogy Excursions

Kai Kanani – Sunrise Deluxe Snorkel

Price: Adults from $280; kids from $230 Duration: 3.5 hours

Early morning risers beat the crowds at Molokini with a 6 a.m. check-in for this 3 ½-hour Sunrise Deluxe Snorkel. Kai Kanani says its boat is one of the first to reach the crater, adding participants will enjoy 45 minutes of solitude in its crystalline waters. As the tour's name implies, you'll see the sunrise, as well as Haleakala and the Big Island . After snorkeling Molokini, you'll head to Turtle Town or another prime snorkeling spot. You'll also receive snacks throughout your trip and breakfast after snorkeling. Participants comment that this one-of-a-kind experience is worth the early wake-up call to be the only snorkelers at Molokini. They also say the crew and captain are friendly and informative

Tickets for tours, which are offered daily, start at approximately $280 for adults and about $230 for children ages 2 to 12. Tour fees are waived for infants. The price covers all food, snorkeling gear and shuttle service from select Wailea resorts . Kai Kanani offers a midmorning snorkeling excursion and several other types of outings, including a sunset sail.

View & Book Tickets: Kai Kanani

Malolo Molokini – Molokini & Turtle Town Snorkel Tour

Price: Adults from $160; kids from $120 Duration: 5.5 hours

Set sail aboard Malolo, a 55-foot catamaran, for this morning snorkeling excursion to Molokini and Turtle Town, which departs before 7 a.m. Tour-takers will spend approximately one hour snorkeling total; the company provides snorkeling gear, float vests and bodyboards. Aboard the boat, snorkelers will find trampolines to laze on and can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, a deli lunch and nonalcoholic beverages (adult beverages are available for purchase). Most reviewers have a positive experience and enjoy the tour, citing the friendly, attentive crew. However, a few travelers complain of poor company communication regarding trip confirmations and departure times.

Ticket prices start at $160 for adults and $120 for children ages 4 to 12. Kids 3 and younger sail for free. Tours are generally offered Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, though exact availability may vary by month. The company also offers an afternoon snorkel tour as well as a sunset dinner cruise, among other options.

View & Book Tickets:  Viator | GetYourGuide

Molokini is one of the most popular snorkel spots for Maui tourists.

Redline Rafting – Two-Hour Molokini Snorkel

Price: From $139 Duration: 2 hours

Redline Rafting's two-hour small boat tour, which is available at 7 or 9:30 a.m., accommodates a maximum of 24 passengers. This outing is perfect for travelers who only want to snorkel at Molokini. The fast 15-minute ride to the crater can be bumpy and wet, so the company recommends that people with certain physical conditions or limitations refrain from booking the trip. Tour-takers say they appreciate the efficient small group tour, which they note is perfect for experienced snorkelers. They also praise the expertise and thoughtfulness of the crew.

Kids younger than 8 are not permitted, and an adult must accompany children between 8 and 15. Guardians must sign waivers for 16- and 17-year-olds. Tickets start at $139 per person and include snorkeling gear, instruction, reef-safe sunscreen, float belts, life jackets and assistance from the crew in identifying tropical fish. Boats depart from the Kihei Boat Ramp. The company offers a five-hour snorkeling excursion, whale watching trips and private snorkeling tours as well.

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Aqua Adventures – Snorkel & Snuba

Price: Adults from $160; kids from $140 Duration: 5 hours

This daily excursion takes a maximum of 38 passengers to Molokini and Turtle Town. The approximately five-hour tour offers patrons up to three hours of snorkeling. Reviewers praise the captain and crew's knowledge and expertise, adding that the tour was the highlight of their Maui trip. Others mention that they saw a wide variety of marine life, including breaching whales, flying fish and dolphins that swam alongside the boat.

Tours depart daily at 7:15 a.m. The cost is approximately $160 for tour-takers 13 and older and about $140 for children ages 12 and younger. Ticket prices include snorkeling gear, guided dives, a continental breakfast and a deli lunch. Note that there is an extra cost if you'd like to snuba and that children must be at least 8 to snuba. Aqua Adventures also offers private charters.

View & Book Tickets: Aqua Adventures

Maui Snorkel Tours

Price: From $160 Duration: 5 hours

Ideal for beginners or those prone to seasickness, Maui Snorkel Tours hosts individualized shore-based tours, meaning you won't be taking a boat to any offshore locations. The snorkeling sites vary depending on the weather and location of the tour-taker's hotel or lodging. These family-friendly, small-group outings accommodate all ages, swimming abilities and snorkeling experience levels, as well as individuals with physical disabilities. Trips also feature a marine biology briefing about the aquatic environment and how to identify various fish species. Patrons rave about the guides and say they appreciate the small group experience and personal attention, especially for beginners.

Tours depart Monday through Friday, begin between 7:30 and 8 a.m., and finish at noon. To enhance your experience, you and your group will be the only participants during each outing. The cost is approximately $160 per person for two snorkelers. If you tour with three or more in your group, you'll pay about $140 per person. The maximum group size is seven. The price includes all gear, snorkeling lessons for beginners and a light snack and bottled water at the end of the excursion.

View & Book Tickets: Maui Snorkel Tours

Alii Nui Sailing Charters – Molokini Deluxe Snorkel

Price: Adults from $254; kids from $189 Duration: 5 hours

If you're looking for an all-inclusive snorkel trip that combines visits to Molokini and Turtle Town with a bevy of extras, consider this morning snorkel tour from Alii Nui Sailing Charters. The five-hour tour includes breakfast, snacks and lunch, as well as beer, wine and seltzer, complimentary use of towels and sunscreen, wetsuit tops and flotation devices, snorkeling gear and shuttle service. Reviewers were impressed with the clean boat, attentive crew and delicious food. They also reported seeing an abundance of wildlife.

Tours are generally offered daily at 7 a.m., though availability may vary by month. Tickets, which includes complimentary shuttle service from south Maui accommodations, start at about $254 for participants 13 and older and $189 for kids 12 and younger. In the mood for a more relaxing activity? Alii Nui Sailing Charters also operates sunset sails for both families and lovebirds.

Know Before You Go

• In 2021, Hawaii banned the use of non-reef-safe sunscreens, which are sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate – chemicals known to cause damage to marine ecosystems. Most tour companies will provide you with reef-safe sunscreen to use during your excursion, but it's a good idea to bring your own.
• You'll also want to bring a towel and sunglasses, as well as an extra set of clothes if you want to change out of your swimsuit after the snorkeling portion of the tour.
• Your tour company will provide you with sanitized snorkel equipment, but if you prefer to use your own, you're welcome to bring it on the tour.
• If you're prone to motion sickness, you'll want to pack motion sickness medication . The boat trip to Molokini is often smooth, but as the day progresses, the winds and currents become stronger, making the ride back to Maui bumpy.
• Be respectful of any wildlife you encounter. For green sea turtles, it's advised you stay back at least 10 feet on land and in water. For dolphins, keep a distance of at least 150 feet. These animals are protected by state and federal law.

You might also be interested in:

• More Maui Tours
• The Best Beaches in Hawaii
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Hawaii

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We Tested: The 9 Best Snorkeling Tours on Maui (+ discount!)

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Maui is home to the best snorkeling in Hawaii, which makes it a huge draw for visitors. While we enjoy snorkeling from the beach, we love treating ourselves to a good snorkeling tour. Snorkeling tours offer trips to difficult-to-access spots, a better chance at spotting a wide variety of marine life, and guides that can help you navigate the process.

But with an abundance of tours offered, it can be difficult to figure out which are the best snorkeling tours on Maui.

After going on many snorkeling tours, we have a list of our favorite snorkeling tours on Maui and we’ve included something for everyone. 

In a hurry and just want the quick details on the best snorkeling tours on Maui? We’ve got you covered: 1. The best Molokini snorkeling tour 2. We love this Lanai Coast snorkel sail 3. Enjoy a whale watch/snorkeling combo 4. Get out to Molokini’s back wall on this power raft tour 5. Kayak and snorkel from Olowalu 6. Beach load right from Ka’anapali on this great and convenient tour 7. Enjoy a private snorkeling experience (5% off with code HVG5) 8. This is an awesome Molokini snorkel tour for families 9. Go out from shore with a guide on a private or small group tour

Best Snorkeling Tours on Maui

As I’ve said, we love snorkeling tours. And getting to live on Maui, we’ve been so lucky to experience many different tours. While we have generally liked most of our snorkeling tour experiences, these are the ones that really stand out in terms of the quality of the boat, the crew, and the snorkel locations. 

Add these to your shortlist of snorkeling tours to experience on Maui .

1. Kai Kanani Maui Adventure Sunrise Snorkel to Molokini Crater

This is hands-down our favorite Molokini snorkel experience because it is a trip that everyone can enjoy. The biggest pro is that Kai Kanani does a beach loading directly from Wailea/Makena, while most other boats depart from Ma’alaea Harbor, which is much further away. That means two things: 

• You’re not spending half of your trip getting to and from the crater. You get more snorkel time!
• You are the first boat to arrive at Molokini Crater.

Being the first snorkeling group in the water is a huge perk. Since it is very popular, Molokini can get crowded. It is a real treat to see it empty! By the time the bigger boats show up, you’re on your way to the second snorkeling location , which is usually turtle town.

Book the sunrise Molokini snorkeling tour with Kai Kanani. If sunrise is a bit too early for you, they also offer a later, deluxe Molokini snorkeling tour. The capacity on their catamaran is 80 people, but they keep their total less (40-60 people) to make sure everyone has a bit more room. 

And want to experience it before you go? Here’s a video of our sunrise tour experience:

If you’re looking for the BEST trip to Molokini crater, be sure to check out our list of the best Molokini snorkeling tours.

2. Trilogy Discover Lana’i Snorkel

A day trip to Lana’i is a real treat and Trilogy makes this day out even more special. Depart from either Ma’alaea Harbor or Ka’anapali Beach and enjoy breakfast on your way to Lana’i. Depart the boat and head to Hulopo’e Bay, a protected marine reserve, for some snorkeling, hiking, and a bbq lunch.

Honestly, we love snorkeling in Hulopo’e Bay and it is such a beautiful place with plenty of tropical fish and a vibrant coral reef. An absolute treat to be able to experience the beach and water out there.

On the return home enjoy a snack and beverages from the premium bar.

3. Ultimate Lana’i Coast Snorkel

Head out on a snorkeling adventure on a high speed raft. This 3.5 hour tour takes you to the Lana’i coast (conditions dependent) on a small group tour. On our tour (video below) we were lucky enough to see both Hawaiian green sea turtles and spinner dolphins.

If you are visiting Maui during whale season and you can’t decide if you should go whale watching or snorkeling, you don’t have to choose. Ultimate Whale Watch & Snorkel runs a combo trip so you can do both at the same time.

A quick note: while you can sometimes spot humpback whales on snorkeling trips during the whale watching months on Maui, snorkeling tours are not going out of their way to find whales.

4. Redline Rafting to Molokini Crater Back Wall

This tour isn’t the classic Molokini Crater snorkeling trip and it isn’t for everyone. But for the right (adventurous person), this is an amazing tour option. Nearly every boat company offers tours of Molokini Crater. But Redline Rafting will not only take you to the crater but to the back wall of the crater on their 5-hour snorkel tour.

This tour is perfect for those visitors who are staying in South Maui. The tour leaves from Kihei Boat Ramp which is between Kihei and Wailea, super convenient.

The back wall is deep  — 300+ feet — but your visibility of it will be less, so it looks like it’s falling off into the ocean. It’s also more thrilling than the partially enclosed crater as you’re open to the ocean.

We went out on Redline’s 2-hour snorkel tour to Molokini Crater. We loved how fast of a trip it was to the crater, 15 minutes, and that we got 1 hour 45 minutes to snorkel. The captain had time for us to do the back wall which is usually reserved for the 5-hour tour. See our experience below!

You’ll then continue your snorkel to La Perouse Bay, a spot where you can often find spinner dolphins.

The power raft tour leaves from the Kihei small boat ramp, which is another perk. You don’t need to drive to Maalaea Harbor to start your journey. 

5. Kayak Snorkeling with Maui Adventure Tours

Looking for something a little different? Skip the big boat experience (and crowds) and head out with a guide on a kayak. Maui Adventure Tours leaves from Olowalu Beach in West Maui (10-minutes south of Lahaina) to take you out snorkeling the pristine reef and clear water of Olowalu reef. No kayaking experience is required.

While you won’t be paddling to Molokini Crater or Lana’i, you’ll stop at different snorkeling locations and look for turtles, octopus, fish, and more. During whale season, you might even get to see some whales up close. 

If you’re planning a trip to Maui, we have a full guide dedicated to planning the best vacation. From where to stay, what to do, and where to eat, we have you covered. Check out our Maui Guide for everything you need to know for a great vacation . 

6. Beach Loading Snorkeling Tours with Sea Maui

If you’re staying in Ka’anapali, there’s nothing more convenient than a beach loading snorkeling tour. No driving or parking needed, just head out to Ka’anapali Beach for a great beach loading experience.

Sea Maui offers different snorkeling tours , ranging from 2.5 to 4.5 hours. They stick to snorkeling locations on West Maui, picking the best location that day based on ocean conditions and visibility. All ages are welcome on the tour and kids under 2 get to join for free.

We have a ton of great resources for planning the rest of your trip: Find an amazing place to stay on Maui . Plan your trip during the best time to visit Maui . Visit the best beaches the island has to offer. Chow down on affordable and delicious grindz at Maui food trucks .

7. Maui Custom Charters to Coral Gardens and Olowalu Reef

Are you looking to ditch the crowds on your snorkel trip? Try a private charter with Maui Custom Charters. Up to 6 passengers can enjoy sailing to the famous and pristine Olowalu reef or under the Lahaina cliffs in Coral Gardens, two snorkel spots that are only accessible by boat.

Whether you want to snorkel, watch the sunset, enjoy some cocktails, learn to sail, celebrate a special occasion, or just lay back and relax then a private charter is your best option. They can customize the perfect trip as the boat and crew are at your service! Their most popular chartered tours are the morning or afternoon 4 -hour snorkel and sail.

Save 5% on all their charter tours with promo code HVG5!

Best Maui Snorkeling Tour for Families

Finding a good snorkeling tour can be tricky when you’re traveling with kids. Some boats don’t allow very young children and babies on board. And if they do, coaxing your child into the ocean so you can all snorkel together can sometimes be a challenge. 

While we’ve taken our preschooler on both Kai Kanani and Sail Maui tours, there are two other tours that we think are exceptional for kids.

Traveling with kids? Here are our favorite kid-friendly beaches on Maui . 

8. Four Winds II Molokini Snorkel

Family fun is the focus on the Four Winds Molokini Crater tour . It’s a larger boat tour than you’ll find in our previous recommendations, but they have some specific amenities that can make going with a larger group totally worth it. Note: their boat capacity is 149 people but they advertise that they keep their tours smaller than that to ensure comfortability.  

On their Molokini snorkeling tour, you’ll get to snorkel Molokini Crater but kids are front and center on the tour. There is a waterslide (that even adults enjoy), a glass-bottom viewing, cookies, temporary tattoos, and more. In the glass bottom room, a few kids or adults can take a peek at what’s underwater, without actually having to get into the water. 

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the maui itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Maui.

9. Maui Snorkel Tours

This is a unique guided snorkeling tour. They offer shore-based tours , meaning no boats are involved at all. You’ll head out in a very small group with a guide (or a private tour) after a briefing on land about marine biology and how to snorkel. 

Why is this great for the family? On a tour boat, there’s no one available to teach you how to properly snorkel. With a guide, they are taking you step by step through how to snorkel, where to snorkel, and equipping you with the knowledge that you can use on future shore snorkeling trips. Whether it’s kids or adults learning, everyone in your family can have a great time underwater and walk away with knowledge about snorkeling and the ocean. 

If you want to look for even more tours, head to our Tours & Activities page for Maui for a full list of our recommended snorkeling, whale watching , ziplining, and more tours. 

Maui Snorkeling Tour FAQs:

If you’re heading out on your first snorkeling trip or trying to decide if paying for a trip is worth it, we have you covered with some FAQs. 

Are snorkeling tours on Maui worth it?

I used to find myself squarely on one side of this debate: snorkeling tours were not worth the money. However, as I’ve done more of them (and gone on great tours), I’ve come to really appreciate that a good snorkeling tour is definitely worth the time money for a number of reasons: 

• You can snorkel in hard-to-access areas: Some tours will take you to spots that are easily accessible from the shore. But others treat you to spots that would be challenging (or impossible) to reach without a boat, like Molokini, spots off the coast of Lana’i, Coral Garden, and Namalu Bay.  
• Access to a naturalist: You’re there to snorkel and have fun, but there’s also something to be said about actually learning more about Hawaii, the ocean, and sea file while you’re on your tour. The best boats come with fantastic naturalists who can educate you on what you’re seeing and answer any questions that you have.
• A crew dedicated to keeping you safe: Snorkeling is a fun activity but there are times when it isn’t so safe. When you head out on a quality boat tour, you have a crew that is dedicated to making sure their passengers stay safe. That means providing you with good gear, having people in the water to help anyone in distress, and making sure to take you to places that are safe. 
• Excellent gear: We own our own snorkeling gear but we almost always leave that at home and use what our tour provides. Why? The quality of the equipment is great, they take away any hassle of cleaning it, and we get to try out new brands. 

• Easy and all-inclusive: Beach days require some planning — bringing the gear, finding a spot, packing enough food and water. A snorkeling tour requires a lot less planning. They take care of the food and drink for you. Just bring your towel and your favorite reef-friendly sunscreen!
• Better reef and environmental protection: Protecting the reef and the sea life in Hawaii is very important. When you travel on a guided snorkeling tour, there is little chance that you’ll find yourself stepping on and damaging coral or violating any of the animal protection laws that are in place. 

While there are a lot of benefits of snorkeling with a tour, that’s not to say that you should skip snorkeling from the shore. If you are an experienced snorkeler and want to visit some of Maui’s best snorkeling spots , you will have a great time. 

But we think that doing one good, quality snorkeling tour on Maui is worth it for just about everyone. 

Is snorkeling at Molokini Crater worth it?

Molokini Crater is one of the most popular snorkeling destinations in Hawaii. It’s a crescent shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater located just a few miles off Maui’s south shore. It’s also a marine life sanctuary and a Hawaii state seabird sanctuary. 

Molokini is a very popular spot, but is it worth it? We think that with the right tour, a trip to Molokini is absolutely worth it. The water is incredibly clear, you’ll see a wider variety of fish than you would snorkeling on the beach, and most tours include additional snorkeling stops, which means you’re not just snorkeling the crater. 

That said, not every Molokini Crater snorkeling tour is equally as good. We’ve listed our favorites (and why we picked them) to help you find the right tour for you. 

Is a snorkeling trip to Lana’i worth it?

I have to be honest: we love snorkeling on Lana’i. So we are firmly in the camp that thinks a snorkeling trip to Lana’i is worth it . And there are a few reasons why. 

First, it’s another island which is just a fun adventure in itself. Second, there are fewer people who make the trip out there compared to other snorkeling spots. Third, you will often see spinner dolphins along the coast and finding your boat in a pod of dolphins is a memorable experience. 

Check out our video of our trip to Lana’i with Ultimate Whale Watch & Snorkel. It was an adventure on a small power raft and one that we can’t wait to go on again soon. 

What can you expect on a snorkeling tour?

While all snorkeling tours are a little bit different, there are some things that you can generally expect to find on your tour

• A naturalist or experienced guide: These guides can educate you on what you’re seeing as well as how best to keep you and the marine life safe. They are extremely knowledgeable, so when they talk be sure to listen!
• Snorkeling gear: If you don’t have snorkeling gear (maks, snorkel, fins) your trip will usually provide you with a high-quality set. And they’ll make sure it fits you well so you can have the best experience possible. 
• Food and drinks : It can be a long day out on the water and the tour will usually provide everything you need to stay happy and hydrated. There’s a range as to what you’ll find on board — some tour operators focus on food and drinks as a selling feature while others provide good food, but the meal and bar isn’t their focus. 

Prefer to get out on the water without snorkeling? Check out our list of the best sunset cruises on Maui . We have a range of options, including a lively luau cruise, a champagne toast sail, or a full dinner cruise.

Before you head to Maui, read our Maui Guide. It’ll make your trip planning so much easier. From where to stay, what to do, and where to eat, we have you covered. Check out our Maui Guide for everything you need to know for a great vacation . 

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If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, we’ve got you covered. Our island itineraries help you navigate the planning process and make your trip smooth once you’re on-island. Thousands of customers have loved them, whether they were planning for a trip that was a year away or a trip that was a day away. 

“This is not a question but simply a “thank you”.  Our original European vacation plans fell through last minute.  So we had 2 weeks to plan something else…your Vacation Guide was a LIFE SAVER.  We had no idea how to begin planning, which island, where to stay, what to do.  Your honest reviews of the islands led us to Maui for 8 days….Mahalo!!.  You guys are awesome!!” – Eva M.

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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Maui Snorkeling tours to Molokini, Coral Gardens, and Turtle Town. All ages and abilities. Food & Drinks Included.

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Book a Private Boat Charter on the Lani Kai II. All-inclusive for up to 67 guests.

Snorkel Trips to Molokini Crater, Coral Gardens, and Turtle Town.

Maui snorkeling tours.

Since 1985, Maui Snorkeling has run thousands of Maui Molokini Snorkel Tours, hundreds of Private Boat Charters, watched tens of thousands of Humpback whales during their annual migrations and has provided the opportunity for people to swim with the most peaceful and beautiful Sea Turtles that Maui has to offer. It’s an honor to be considered one of the best snorkeling boats in Maui and we spend each and every day maintaining that reputation. We certainly understand and appreciate the responsibility that goes along with carrying the Maui Snorkeling name!

Our boats, Lani Kai I (retired) and Lani Kai II, have carried close to 1 million passengers and have served families, honeymooners, senior citizens, young children, military personnel, and vacationers from every country on the globe. Lani Kai was retired in March 2020 and we welcomed Lani Kai II in August 2020. Lani Kai II is a 53-foot vessel that can accommodate up to 67 passengers. Our whale watching, snorkeling, and turtle tours leave out of Ma’alaea Harbor and travel to Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.

Since her launch in August 2020, Lani Kai II has hosted major Hollywood productions, professional athletes and celebrities, and thousands of Maui visitors. We are committed to protecting our marine life and celebrating the beauty of Hawai’i!

Whether you are two honeymooners looking for a breathtaking snorkeling experience, a couple celebrating 25 years of marriage, or a young family hoping for an unforgettable experience, Maui Snorkeling is one of the top things to do in Maui and Molokini. We are happy to provide the best all-inclusive packages in Maui that includes a morning snorkeling tour, afternoon snorkeling tour, and group & private charters.

Maui Snorkeling is proud to offer BYOB service to our guests. We listened to our customers and realized that everyone has their own specific requests for alcohol. The only limitations are no glass and no drinking until you are done snorkeling, swimming, and sliding!

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The Lani Kai II

Enjoy a breathtaking Maui snorkeling experience with outrageously personal attention from our experienced and dedicated crew!

A 53-foot, double-decked boat that carries up to 67 passengers. Large enough to handle the seas, but small enough to avoid the “sea of humanity”!

Snorkeling, Whale Watching, Turtles

Why Lani Kai II?

• 9 Veteran Captain & Crew
• 9 7 Days A Week
• 9 5 Hour Morning or 3 Hour Afternoon Tours
• 9 Snorkeling, Whale Watching, Turtles
• 9 Molokini Crater | Turtle Town | Coral Gardens
• 9 Food and Drinks Included
• 9 All Necessary Equipment Included
• 9 Kids Under 4 Are Free

• Adventure Activities

Tested and Approved: Best Snorkeling Tours in Maui

With its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, Maui is a paradise for snorkelers. But with so many snorkeling tours available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve researched for you and compiled a list of the nine best Maui snorkeling tours tested and approved by experts and travelers alike.

Our list includes a variety of tours, from snorkeling at the famous Molokini Crater to exploring the coastline of Lanai on a power raft. We’ve also included eco-friendly options and tours that cater to families with young children. Each tour has been carefully selected based on factors such as safety, quality of equipment, knowledgeable guides, and overall customer satisfaction.

Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or an experienced diver, a tour on our list will suit your needs. So, pack your sunscreen and get ready to explore the underwater world of Maui on one of these top-rated snorkeling tours.

The 9 Best Maui Snorkeling Tours

• Pacific Whale Foundation  – Known for its eco-conscious tours and focus on marine wildlife conservation.
• Redline Rafting  – Offering small-group tours to Molokini and other lesser-known snorkel spots around Maui.
• Pride of Maui  – Provides a variety of tours, including afternoon snorkeling adventures and sunset cruises.
• Four Winds Maui  – Popular for their family-friendly Molokini snorkeling tours, which include a glass-bottom boat experience.
• Trilogy Excursions  – Well-regarded for their tours to Lanai, featuring snorkeling and dolphin sightings.
• Blue Water Maui  – This operator offers personalized snorkeling tours to less-visited West Maui and Lanai spots.
• Kai Kanani Sailing  – Renowned for their luxury catamaran tours, including an early morning Molokini snorkeling trip.
• Aloha Blue Charters  – Offers a variety of tours, including snorkeling trips to Molokini and Turtle Town.
• Maui Adventure Cruises  – Provides an array of ocean tours focusing on dolphin discovery and snorkeling trips.

Table of Contents

Exploring the underwater world of maui.

Maui is home to some of the most breathtaking snorkeling spots in the world. From coral gardens teeming with tropical fish to the diverse marine life, there’s something for everyone to discover beneath the surface. Here are some of the best snorkeling tours in Maui that offer unforgettable experiences:

Molokini Crater Experience

The Molokini Crater is a partially submerged volcanic crater that is home to an abundance of sea life. This snorkeling tour takes you to the back wall of the crater, where you can see an incredible array of marine creatures, including octopuses, moray eels, and colorful tropical fish. You’ll be amazed at the clarity of the water, which can reach up to 150 feet in some areas. This tour is perfect for those who want to explore the underwater world of Maui in a unique and unforgettable way.

Turtle Town Adventure

Turtle Town is a popular snorkeling spot in Maui where you can swim alongside Hawaiian green sea turtles. This tour takes you to some of the best locations to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the coral gardens and see a variety of tropical fish. This tour is perfect for families and those who want to experience the beauty of Maui’s sea life up close.

Honolua Bay Exploration

Honolua Bay is a marine reserve that is home to a diverse range of sea life, including colorful coral and tropical fish. This snorkeling tour takes you to some of the best spots in the bay, where you can explore the underwater world and see a variety of marine creatures. You’ll be amazed at the vibrant colors and unique formations of the coral gardens. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Maui’s underwater world in a peaceful and serene setting.

Lanai Discovery

Lanai is a small island located off the coast of Maui that is home to some of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii. This tour takes you to some of the most beautiful locations around the island, where you can see a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, colorful tropical fish, and even dolphins. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the coral gardens and see some of the most unique formations in the world. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Maui’s underwater world in a more secluded and intimate setting.

Overall, Maui offers some of the best snorkeling experiences in the world. Whether you want to explore coral gardens, see tropical fish, or swim with sea turtles, there’s something for everyone to discover beneath the surface. Book one of these snorkeling tours today and experience the beauty of Maui’s underwater world for yourself.

Choosing the Right Snorkeling Tour

Maui is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect destination for snorkeling. With so many Maui snorkeling tours available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for you and your group. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a snorkeling tour.

Family-Friendly Tours

If you’re traveling with kids or looking for a more relaxed experience, consider a family-friendly snorkeling tour. These tours typically have a slower pace and offer amenities like onboard restrooms and freshwater showers. Look for tours that provide snorkeling gear in children’s sizes and have a shallow snorkeling area for beginners. The Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkeling Adventure is a popular option for families, as it offers a kid-friendly snorkeling area and a chance to see sea turtles up close.

Adventure Seeker Tours

For those seeking a more exciting and adventurous experience, consider a snorkeling tour that includes activities like catamaran rides or rafting. These tours often take you to less crowded areas and offer a chance to see more marine life. The Small-Group Molokini Snorkel is a great option for adventure seekers, as it includes a thrilling ride on a high-speed raft to the snorkeling destination.

Luxury Tours

If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, consider a private or small-group snorkeling tour. These tours often offer amenities like gourmet food, top-of-the-line snorkeling gear, and a more personalized experience. Look for tours that offer a catamaran or boat tour with a small group of people for a more intimate experience. The Molokini Snorkeling Tour is a popular option for a luxury experience, as it includes a private catamaran tour and a gourmet lunch.

When choosing a Maui snorkeling tour, it’s important to consider your group’s needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly experience, an adventure-filled tour, or a luxurious outing, there’s a Maui snorkeling tour that’s perfect for you.

What to Expect on a Snorkeling Tour

When planning a snorkeling tour in Maui, it’s important to know what to expect. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect before, during, and after your snorkeling tour.

Before the Tour

Before the tour, it’s important to check the weather and sea conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Most tours provide all the necessary snorkeling gear, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own if you have it. It’s also recommended to wear a rash guard or wetsuit to protect your skin from the sun and any potential jellyfish stings.

Some tours offer a guide to accompany you on your snorkeling adventure, providing valuable information about the marine life you’ll encounter. Additionally, some tours offer breakfast or a buffet lunch, while others may provide a deli lunch or snacks.

During the Tour

During the tour, you’ll board a boat and head out to the snorkeling destination. The boat ride can vary in length, depending on the location. Some tours offer beer or other beverages on board, but it’s important to drink responsibly and stay hydrated.

Once you arrive at the snorkeling site, you’ll receive a safety briefing and instructions on how to use the snorkeling equipment. Then, it’s time to jump in and explore the underwater world! Keep in mind that it’s important to respect the marine life and their habitats by not touching or disturbing them.

After the Tour

After the tour, you’ll head back to shore and return the snorkeling gear. Some tours offer free cancellation up to a certain time before the tour, so be sure to check the cancellation policy when booking.

Overall, a Maui snorkeling tour can be a memorable and exciting experience. Just remember to be prepared, stay safe, and have fun!

Marine Wildlife in Maui

Maui is home to a diverse range of marine wildlife, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island are teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating creatures. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the marine wildlife you can expect to encounter on the best Maui snorkeling tours.

Dolphin and Whale Watching

Maui is one of the best places in the world to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. Spinner dolphins are a common sight in the waters around the island, and many snorkeling tours offer the opportunity to see these playful creatures up close. Humpback whales are another popular attraction, with tours available during the winter months when these majestic creatures migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii to breed and give birth.

Sea Turtle Spotting

Green sea turtles are a beloved symbol of Hawaii, and Maui is home to a thriving population of these gentle giants. Snorkeling tours to Molokini Crater and other popular spots often include the chance to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. It’s important to remember that sea turtles are protected by law in Hawaii, and it’s illegal to touch or harass them in any way.

In conclusion, Maui is a snorkeling paradise with an abundance of marine wildlife to discover. Whether you’re looking to spot dolphins and whales or swim with green sea turtles, the best Maui snorkeling tours offer an unforgettable experience. Remember to respect the natural environment and the creatures that call it home, and you’re sure to have a fantastic time exploring the underwater world of Maui.

Essential Gear and Safety Measures

When planning for a snorkeling trip, it is important to ensure that you have the right gear and take necessary safety measures. This will ensure that you have a fun and safe time exploring the beautiful underwater world of Maui.

Choosing the Right Gear

The right gear can make a huge difference in your snorkeling experience. A good snorkel set typically includes a mask, snorkel, and fins. It is important to choose a mask that fits snugly and comfortably on your face, with a good seal around the edges. A snorkel with a purge valve can help you clear any water that enters the tube. Fins should fit comfortably and snugly, allowing you to swim efficiently and without discomfort.

Sun Protection

Maui has a sunny and tropical climate, making sun protection an essential part of your snorkeling gear. A hat can protect your face and head from the sun’s harmful rays. Additionally, it is important to use a reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and the fragile marine ecosystem. Look for sunscreens that are free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can harm coral reefs.

Safety Precautions

While snorkeling is a fun and exciting activity, it is important to take necessary safety precautions. Always snorkel with a buddy, and never venture too far from shore. It is also a good idea to wear a flotation device, such as a life jacket or inflatable snorkel vest. This can provide added safety and help you conserve energy while swimming.

In conclusion, choosing the right gear and taking necessary safety measures can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable snorkeling experience in Maui. Remember to wear a hat, use reef-safe sunscreen, and take necessary safety precautions while exploring the beautiful underwater world.

Best Time to Go Snorkeling in Maui

When planning a snorkeling tour in Maui, it’s important to consider the best time to go. The weather and seasonal changes can greatly affect the quality of your snorkeling experience. In this section, we’ll explore the best time to go snorkeling in Maui and what to expect during different seasons and daily weather patterns.

Seasonal Changes

The best time to go snorkeling in Maui is during the shoulder months of April, May, September, or October. During these months, the weather is still favorable, the costs are lower, and the crowds are fewer. However, it’s important to note that you may miss out on certain events, like whale season, which typically runs from December to May.

During the summer months of June through August, the water temperature is warmer, but the ocean can be rougher due to trade winds. Winter months from November to March can be rainy and windy, but the ocean is calmer and clearer. If you’re looking to snorkel with sea turtles, they can be found year-round, but are more commonly spotted during the summer months.

Daily Weather Patterns

When planning your snorkeling tour, it’s important to consider the daily weather patterns. Mornings are typically calmer with clearer water, making it the best time to go snorkeling. Afternoons can be windier with rougher conditions, which can affect visibility and make it more difficult to snorkel.

It’s also important to check the weather forecast before heading out on your snorkeling tour. If there are high winds or storms in the area, it’s best to reschedule your tour for another day. Safety should always be a top priority when snorkeling in Maui.

Overall, the best time to go snorkeling in Maui is during the shoulder months of April, May, September, or October. However, it’s important to consider the daily weather patterns and check the weather forecast before heading out on your tour. With the right planning and preparation, you can have an unforgettable snorkeling experience in Maui.

Maui’s Top Snorkeling Spots

Maui is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, making it a prime destination for snorkeling. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, Maui has a variety of snorkeling spots that cater to all skill levels. Here are some of the top snorkeling spots on Maui:

South Shore Spots

The South Shore of Maui is home to some of the island’s most popular snorkeling spots. Kihei Boat Ramp is a great place to start, as it provides easy access to the water and is a popular spot for sea turtles. Just a short drive away is Wailea Beach, which is known for its calm waters and colorful fish. Further south, La Perouse Bay offers a more rugged snorkeling experience with lava rock formations and unique marine life.

West Maui Locations

West Maui is home to some of Maui’s most iconic snorkeling spots. Kapalua Bay is a great place to start, as it offers calm waters and a wide variety of marine life. Another popular spot is Honolua Bay, which is known for its vibrant coral and crystal-clear waters. Just off the coast of Lahaina Harbor is the famous Molokini Crater, which is home to an abundance of marine life and offers some of the best snorkeling on the island.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

For those looking to get off the beaten path, Maui has plenty of options. Maalaea Harbor is a great place to start, as it offers access to some of the island’s less crowded snorkeling spots. Olowalu is another great option, as it offers a variety of marine life and is a popular spot for sea turtles. Finally, Haleakala National Park offers a unique snorkeling experience, as it is home to freshwater pools that are filled with unique marine life.

Maui has a variety of snorkeling spots that cater to all skill levels and interests. From the iconic Molokini Crater to the off-the-beaten-path destinations, there is something for everyone. Be sure to do your research and choose a snorkeling spot that suits your needs and skill level.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best maui snorkeling tours for non-swimmers.

If you’re not a strong swimmer, it’s important to choose a snorkeling tour that offers flotation devices and has a guide who can assist you in the water. The Trilogy Discover Molokini tour and the Maui Magic Molokini Snorkel Adventure both provide flotation devices and have guides who can help non-swimmers.

What is the best time of day to go on a Maui snorkeling tour?

The best time of day to go on a Maui snorkeling tour is in the morning, when the water is usually calmer and clearer. The Trilogy Discover Molokini tour and the Four Winds II Molokini Snorkel Tour both depart in the morning.

Which Maui snorkeling tour offers the best chance to see marine life?

The Molokini Crater is known for its diverse marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. The Molokini Wild Side Snorkel tour is a great option for those who want to see a variety of marine life, including dolphins and whales during the winter months.

What should I bring on a Maui snorkeling tour?

It’s important to bring sunscreen, a towel, a waterproof camera, and a change of clothes. If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s also a good idea to bring medication. The snorkeling tour company will usually provide snorkeling gear, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own if you have it.

Is Molokini Crater worth visiting on a Maui snorkeling tour?

Yes, Molokini Crater is definitely worth visiting on a Maui snorkeling tour. The crater is a marine sanctuary and offers some of the best snorkeling in Maui. The water is crystal clear, and the marine life is abundant.

What Maui snorkeling tour company has the best reviews?

The Trilogy Discover Molokini tour consistently receives great reviews for its knowledgeable guides, quality snorkeling gear, and overall experience. The Maui Magic Molokini Snorkel Adventure is also highly rated for its small group size and personalized attention.

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Pride of Maui

Snorkeling Tours

Limiting our capacity at 60% for greater comfort to elevate your experience.

Please note: Your safety is our number one priority! Fortunately, Mother Nature nearly always cooperates, and we do go to Molokini and Turtle Town. On days of inclement weather, our Expert Captains reserve the right to select alternate locations where the conditions are safe and offer the best overall conditions.

#1 Molokini snorkel tour

Pride of Maui is the most spacious and stable vessel on Maui. She boasts an expert crew with many amenities on our world-class trips and cruises.

From Maui snorkeling tours to private charters and whale watching, we want to make sure yours is the experience of a lifetime.

We are committed to providing our guests with the best possible experience, which is why we have limited our capacity to about half. This allows for greater comfort and enjoyment for all on board.

Molokini Snorkel Tour

Five Hour Maui Snorkeling & Diving Adventure

Our famous Five Hour Maui Molokini Snorkel Adventure is considered Maui’s best snorkeling trip which takes you to two exceptional sites — Molokini Crater and Turtle Town (weather dependent). The Molokini tours aboard our world-class catamaran are simply unmatched in features and amenities. We limit our capacity to about half for greater comfort so you have the best experience possible. You’ll enjoy top-notch snorkel locations and memories not soon forgotten with a crew second to none.

• 2 World-class Snorkel Sites
• All Snorkel Gear Provided

Onboard Amenities

• Impeccable Service
• Limited Capacity
• Free Breakfast
• Expert Crew

65ft Catamaran

50ft Uniflite motor yacht

A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

I am proud to announce that we are the first passenger tour company limiting the guests we serve to 60% of our US Coast Guard capacity to support sustainable tourism and elevate your ocean adventure. With this new business model, we continue to build on 40 years of unsurpassed guest service, inspired by a renewed commitment to enhancing your time with us.

Read the full statement regarding limited capacity .

Pride of Maui Trips

It’s a journey to another world and one that you’ll never forget.

Molokini Snorkeling Tour

DURATION: 5 Hours, 8:00 am to 1:00 pm

• Free Breakfast & BBQ Lunch
• Fully-stocked Open bar
• Flotation & Wetsuits
• SNUBA Diving
• Expert Crew & Service
• Fun Water Slide

Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise

DURATION: 2 Hours, 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

• Live Entertainment
• Panoramic Photo Opportunities
• Freshly Prepared Dinner
• Fully-stocked Open Bar
• Hawaiian Cultural Experience
• Fewer passengers which allows guests to move around freely
• Refreshments served immediately after departure
• Panoramic Sunset Views

Private Boat Charters

DURATION: ANY

• Private Boat Charter
• Custom Decor
• Expert Crew & Bar Service
• Personalized Attention
• Video/Photo Services Available
• Elaborate Weddings
• Corporate Events

Whale Watching Snorkel Tour

DURATION: 3.5 Hours, 2 pm to 5:30 pm

• 2 Hours Whale Watching
• 1 Hour Snorkeling
• Guaranteed Whale Sightings
• Sprawling Observation Deck
• Onboard Naturalist
• Hydrophones

Leilani Molokini Snorkeling Tour

• Fun on the water with fewer passengers
• Turtle and marine wildlife sightings
• Relaxed snorkeling at Molokini Crater and Turtle Town
• Professional sanitized snorkel equipment
• Freshly prepared breakfast & delicious lunch

Leilani Private Boat Charters

• Perfect for family, business and friends
• Private Maui Snorkeling Charter
• Exceptional service
• Snorkeling at Molokini Crater & Turtle Town
• Dive Master Available For Divers In Your Group

Splash into an ocean of fun and see some of the most magnificent marine life you can imagine.

Whale Watch

Destinations

• Turtle town
• Coral gardens

Molokini Crater

Molokini Crater is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. As one of only a few partially-submerged volcanic cones of its kind in the world, it offers sights and experiences that you probably didn’t even know you were missing.

We’ve been diving Molokini for 30 years and never grow tired of its clear blue water and incredible sea life. Come see why many consider Molokini the best snorkeling Maui has to offer.

Olowalu is one of the most amazing spots to explore marine life among all the Hawaiian Islands. Enjoy crystal-clear blue waters, a decorated coastline, impressive coral reef formations, and an abundance of Hawaiian ocean marine life.

Venture through calm waters with your family and friends, enjoying all the beauty of the Pacific. Be an eye witness to a myriad of tropical fish, colorful seabeds, the Hawaiian green sea turtle, and more. Olowalu is an adventure worth seeking; a perfect ocean activity from beginner to novice.

Turtle Town

Turtle Town is considered one of the best Maui diving locations, offering a rare glimpse into the world of the Hawaiian green sea turtle. These gentle creatures have been honored and loved by Hawaiians for centuries and you’ll be given the chance to share their home with them as you snorkel Turtle Town.

This is an opportunity that few people will ever have and will likely be one of your most memorable experiences in Maui. Snorkel with and closely observe the Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Coral Gardens

Coral Gardens is on the West Side of Maui and best reached by boat, explore one of the most unique and protected bays in Hawaii. Home to a host of tropical fish, Octopus, Eels, and the Hawaiian green sea turtles, Coral Gardens does not disappoint.

The natural reef formations are incredibly beautiful, vibrant in color, and bustling with ocean marine life. The clear and shallow waters reflect gorgeous Hawaiian sunlight, making for amazing visibility, and ideal conditions for snorkeling in Maui.

Why Choose Us?

Pride of Maui has unique features that enhance the comfort & fun of your trip

Impeccable Service & Experience

Adventure, Fun & Safety

Stability & Comfort

Ocean & Reef Safe Initiatives

Experienced Crew & Impeccable Service

A first class boat traveling to exceptional destinations is a great start. We build on that by offering impeccable service from an experienced crew dedicated to making your Maui adventure a special one.

We are the only large vessel that caters to a broad range of ocean interests in addition to offering world class snorkeling.

A first class boat traveling to exceptional destinations is a great start. We build on that by offering impeccable service.

Coral Reef Initiative

No other vessel on Maui offers as much. 360-degree panoramic viewing, warm showers, and a super water slide are a few of the amenities.

Pride of Maui is the largest and most stable catamaran on Maui. Her sprawling deck boasts unobstructed panoramic views.

The last two years presented many challenges and learning opportunities. Everyone was forced to slow down, revisit priorities and take stock of what’s important.

We made significant operational changes with a limited guest capacity of 50%. We were afforded the opportunity to improve our onboard amenities and refine the guest experience. We’ve listened to our guests and our repeat Ohana, who welcome the limited capacity and appreciate the upgraded service.

We recognize that capacity limits allow for more attentive and personalized service, with the added benefit of greater room to roam our spacious vessel comfortably at a relaxed pace.

On behalf of our crew and employees, we thank our repeat Ohana for your support and look forward to serving you soon.

CEO Scott Turner

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10 Epic Snorkeling Spots on Maui (+ Map & Tips)

Maui offers tons of incredible experiences to enjoy, from adventurous hikes and whale-watching excursions to lively luaus and delicious culinary experiences. But if there is one thing you have to do while visiting Hawaii — it’s snorkeling!

Hawaii has some of the best snorkeling in the world, and out of all the Hawaiian Islands — Maui offers arguably the best (and most!) spots for snorkeling. From calm, shallow waters in protected bays teeming with tropical fish to offshore destinations that are perfect for spotting sea turtles, manta rays, and even dolphins and whales in the distance — there are tons of unique snorkeling experiences to be had on the island of Maui.

Fortunately, you don’t have to search far to find the best snorkeling spots in Maui — they are scattered all across the island’s west and south coasts. Choose any of the spots from the list below for an incredible snorkeling experience!

Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!

Map of the Best Snorkeling Spots in Maui

The best snorkeling spots in Maui are concentrated on the island’s west and south coasts. You can read more about each snorkeling destination below — the list starts with the northernmost destination and ends in the south.

Best Snorkeling Spots in Maui – West Maui

1. honolua bay.

Honolua Bay is not a beach you’d typically want to go for sunbathing — the shore is somewhat rocky, there’s an agricultural property nearby that can sometimes be smelly, and the water directly offshore is often murky. However, if you’re willing to work a bit, Honolua Bay deserves a spot on your  Maui itinerary , offering some of the very best snorkeling and scuba diving on the island. 

The bay is part of a Marine Life Conservation District, meaning fishing or any other activity that would remove wildlife is strictly prohibited. Accordingly, you’re usually guaranteed to see thousands of tropical fish, colorful coral, and even cute sea turtles underwater. You must swim quite a bit offshore from the beach for the best visibility, but you’ll be rewarded with crystal-clear water teeming with wildlife. 

You’ll need to hike about 0.3 miles (one-way) along a flat trail that weaves through the rainforest to access the beachfront. Luckily, there’s plenty of parking at the trailhead. As you might imagine, for a beach that you have to hike to, there are no facilities to speak of, including showers, bathrooms, lifeguards, or a place to rent snorkeling equipment — so be sure to bring your own gear! 

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

2. Mokuleʻia Beach (Slaughterhouse Beach)

Despite its less-than-attractive name, Slaughterhouse Beach is one of the best beaches in Maui to go snorkeling. Slaughterhouse Beach is located in Mokule’ia Bay, just between Fleming Beach and Honolua Bay.  

The beach is stunning, and the array of tropical sea life you can discover always brings locals and some “in the know” tourists. If you have  five days in Maui , add this to your snorkeling bucket list! 

You can expect to see the state fish of Hawaii, Humuhumunuhunhuapu’a, among other tropical fish. On top of that, green sea turtles are often spotted here. Admittedly, there are 87 steps to climb down before you get to the beach — but the views you will be greeted with are well worth it.

Snorkeling here is family-friendly, especially during low tide, where you can walk out to parts of the rocks. Parking is available on the nearby street, but due to its popularity, you will want to get there as early as possible to secure your spot. Unfortunately, you can’t rent snorkeling gear and must bring your own. 

Another thing to remember before visiting is that this is a Marine Life Conservation District, so you should pack a garbage bag if you bring anything you may need to dispose of. The area should be kept as clean as possible. You also can’t bring corals, shells, and sands home from this area.

Recommended by Samantha of Find Love and Travel

3. Kapalua Bay

One of the very best snorkeling spots in Maui is Kapalua Bay Beach. Not only is this one of the most beautiful beach spots in Maui, but its calm waters and crescent-shaped beach make it ideal for a perfect beach and snorkel day. The calm and clear waters and onsite changing room and bathroom make it very kid-friendly, which is why Kapalua Bay Beach is not just one of the best snorkeling spots on Maui, but it’s also one the  best things to do on Maui with kids of all ages .

Kapalua Bay Beach is one of the best places to see so much of Maui’s famed marine life since it is a protected bay with a shallow reef. From the resident green sea turtle to the famous  humuhumunukunukuapua’a ( a triggerfish known as Hawaii’s state fish), often spotted here, you will see plenty of colorful fish and coral.

You don’t have to go far to see some of the bay’s notable residents, as the coral begins in the shallow waters right off the beach. Just walk in and start snorkeling to see a range of tropical fish, eels, and an assortment of coral. Please note it is against Hawaiian law to go within ten feet of sea turtles or to harass or touch any marine life, and be careful not to touch or bump into the coral.

You should bring your own snorkel gear, but a site onsite rents floaties and snorkel sets if you forget yours. However, they often run out, so bringing your own is best. The beach is also ideally suited for sunbathing, though you will want to bring food, water, and towels. There are several hotels near Kapalua Bay, and one of the best places to eat in Maui, Merriman’s, right beside the beach.

Parking is available, but it fills up quickly, so it is best to arrive early. There is no doubt that Kapalua Bay is one of the best snorkeling spots in Maui, where you can see a lot of Maui’s underwater world, and it should be on your Maui itinerary.

Recommended by Keri of Bon Voyage With Kids

4. Napili Bay

If you plan to explore  the west side of Maui Island , you’ll have plenty of snorkeling venues to choose from. One of the most underrated places to snorkel is Napili Bay. Napili Bay is very tranquil. Most visitors tend to be locals, even though there are condos and other places to stay nearby.

You’ll get a perfect sandy beach and entry into Napili with calm waters to swim and snorkel around the reef area, located just offshore and filled with turtles, tropical fish, and other underwater life to check out. Napili Bay is less crowded than the other beaches in the Kapalua or Ka’anapali beach area, which is ideal to avoid crowds.

Bathrooms, showers, and restaurants surround the bay area, or you can pack a nice meal and find a perfect spot on the beach or under a shady tree to enjoy the fantastic views. Parking is definitely tricky since only street parking is available on most days. The trick is to come here earlier in the morning or later in the day when most of the day trippers have left from spending the day at this fantastic beach area.

Recommended by Noel of This Hawaii Life

5. Black Rock Beach

Located right in front of the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa — one of the best places to stay in Maui — is Black Rock Beach. Black Rock Beach is easily one of the best snorkeling spots in Maui. During our trip to Maui, we visited multiple snorkeling spots, and this one was our favorite by far — we went back multiple times because the snorkeling was so good!

Black Rock Beach is just north of Ka’anapali Beach, so it is pretty easy to reach if you are staying at any of the resorts in Ka’anapali. We walked from the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa so we wouldn’t have to worry about parking, and it was a 20–25 minute walk. There are a few free parking lots near Black Rock Beach, but they do fill up quickly. If you’re driving, you will want to plan on parking in the paid parking garage at Whaler’s Village. You can get your ticket validated by stopping for lunch or dinner here after a day of snorkeling — some of the best spots to eat are Monkeypod Kitchen and Lelani’s on the Beach .

Once you arrive at Black Rock Beach, you will see a stretch of golden sand and a black rock that reaches into the ocean — hence the name of the beach. While the black rock is a popular spot for cliff diving, it also attracts an abundance of marine life — making it one of the best snorkeling spots on Maui!

We saw a ton of marine life in the crystal-clear water, including several sea turtles, tropical fish, eels, and even a barracuda that swam right past my leg. There are tons of crevices in the black rock filled with coral reefs that are fun to explore. The water is shallow enough near the shore but gets deep quickly, making it easy to swim around and see the beautiful underwater life that is teeming beneath the surface. We even heard (and saw!) dolphins swimming about a hundred feet in the distance when we were snorkeling here!

Only experienced swimmers should attempt snorkeling at Black Rock Beach. The strong undercurrents can sweep you away from the shore easily. Always snorkel with a buddy, and if conditions feel unsafe — stay on the shore. There are no lifeguards stationed at Black Rock Beach. There are also no public restrooms. I recommend using the restroom before and after snorkeling at Whaler’s Village. However, for confident swimmers, snorkeling at Black Rock Beach is easily one of the best things to do in Ka’anapali and, arguably, one of the best things to do in Maui!

Recommended by Brittany of Travel by Brit

6. Oluwalu Beach

Oluwalu is a popular surfing and snorkeling beach on the road to Lahaina. A fabulous spot to see coral, turtles, and fish of all shapes and sizes, Oluwalu is far less touristy than many other beaches on the island. Avoid snorkeling if the waves are big enough to surf. In those conditions, visibility is low, and it can be dangerous. For these reasons, Oluwalu is best suited for adults and confident swimmers rather than families. 

There are no facilities at the beach, so be sure to bring your own snorkeling equipment and refreshments. It’s also highly recommended that you wear water shoes as the shoreline is rocky, and sharp thorns are embedded throughout the sand. Unfortunately, this also means that Oluwalu isn’t ideal for sunbathing. 

Free parking is available along the highway, ideally after Mile Marker 14. However, avoid parking in the sand under the trees, as vehicles can easily get stuck there. 

After a fun day at the beach, drive just a few minutes down the road to grab some shave ice or boiled peanuts (a local speciality) from the Oluwalu General Store. Also nearby is one of the most popular places to eat in Maui — Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop — famous for its key lime pies, red hot dogs, and banana bread. 

Recommended by Kara of  Travel Britain Better

Best Snorkeling Spots in Maui – South Maui

7. ulua beach.

Ulua Beach is a fabulous spot for snorkeling if you stay at any of the Maui resorts in Wailea. The beach is located between Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort – a Concept by Hyatt and Grand Wailea Waldorf Astoria Hotel . However, if you’re driving from another part of the island, there is free public parking near Ulua Beach — we didn’t have any trouble finding a spot in the afternoon when we snorkeled at this beach!

The best place for snorkeling at Ulua Beach is on the right side, near the rocky part of the beach. This is where Ulua Beach meets Mokapu Beach. This part of the beach houses a reef system with colorful tropical fish, including butterflyfish, humuhumunukunukuapua’a (triggerfish), goatfish, and more. If you’re lucky — you might even see a green sea turtle! Some snorkelers have seen eels, octopus, and manta rays here. Though we didn’t see a turtle here, we did see a small eel, which was cool.

This beach is sandy, so it’s a great spot for sunbathing, and getting in and out of the water is relatively easy. There are also restrooms and showers right on the beach, which is convenient as well. If you’re spending any time in South Maui — definitely pay a visit to Ulua Beach, one of the best snorkeling spots in Maui.

8. Maluaka Beach (Turtle Town)

Maluaka Beach is undoubtedly one of the best snorkeling spots on Maui! This stretch of beach in Maui is popularly called Turtle Town, and yes, that name arose from the fact that you are very likely to see Hawaiian green sea turtles here!

One of the  best beaches in South Maui , Maluaka Beach is famous with tour companies that bring boats here and snorkelers wanting to explore from shore. While the south end of the beach is considered the preferred area for snorkeling, you can also snorkel at the north end. You will see many colorful tropical reef fish, such as tangs and butterflyfish, sea urchins, and, of course, turtles. You may have to swim a little farther out, about 200 to 400 feet, to see the turtles.

Maluaka Beach is considered a family-friendly snorkeling spot: the south end is all sand, and the water is easy to enter. Of course, always assess conditions before choosing to enter the ocean.

There are parking lots at the north and south end of Maluaka Beach. The south lot fills up quickly, so plan to arrive early. Maluaka Beach is located near Wailea, where you will find several stores for snorkel gear rentals if you plan to snorkel from shore and don’t bring your own gear!

Recommended by Sam from Travel Hawaii with Us

9. Makena Beach (Big Beach)

Makena Beach, also called Big Beach, is often overlooked as one of the best snorkeling spots in Maui because of the bigger waves, but if you can visit on a calmer day, you’ll be in for a treat!

Less than twenty minutes south of Kihei, this gorgeous golden sand beach is a beautiful place to snorkel with sea turtles and tropical fish. It’s also a big beach (hence the same) with plenty of space to spread out, making it feel way less crowded than the more popular Maui snorkeling spots and beaches.

As mentioned above, the waves can be a little bigger here than the calmer beaches typically popular with snorkelers. With that in mind, only competent swimmers with snorkeling experience should get into the water here. It can also be helpful to check the surf report beforehand to understand what it will be like.

For the best snorkeling, head to the north end of the beach near the cliffs. Of course, you’ll need to be aware of your surroundings and not get too distracted by the majestic sea turtles and vibrant fish to avoid being pushed into the cliffs. 

Big Beach is a bit far from town, and there is nowhere to rent snorkel gear nearby, so be sure to add a snorkel, mask, and fins to your  Hawaii packing list !

Recommended by Annie of Your Friend the Nomad

10. Molokini Crater

Molokini Crater is one of the best snorkeling spots in Maui. It should be added to any  Maui itinerary  and is one of the most popular places for snorkeling. Not only is the water gorgeous, but it is teeming with wildlife and usually has good visibility. 

You can see a wide variety of fish and, if you are lucky, even turtles! You will most likely see whales during your journey to and from the crater during whale season. If you visit as part of a tour, you do not have to bring your own snorkel gear, as it is included in the tour. When you start the tour, there is plenty of parking at the dock. 

The only way to get to the Molokini Crater is by boat. Many different tour companies will take you to the Molokini Crater. The  Pacific Whale Foundation  is one of the best options as they are a non-profit organization that helps to research and protect whales. 

The swimming here is mild, and the tour companies will have plenty of life jackets available for those who want to use them. Thus, it is good for swimmers of all ages and very family-friendly. While there will most likely be a lot of snorkelers at the crater, everyone is very spread out, so there is plenty of room for everyone. You will not be sorry visiting the Molokini Crater. It is one of the best snorkeling spots in Maui!

Recommended by Francesca of Homeroom Travel

Helpful Maui Snorkeling Tips

Regardless of which of the best snorkeling spots in Maui you choose to visit during your vacation to Maui, be sure to keep the following snorkeling tips in mind:

• Snorkel with a friend . It’s smart to snorkel with a buddy, so you can look out for each other and ensure you’re not getting too far away from the shore. When you’re so immersed in the aquatic life underneath the surface, this can happen more easily than you might think! From personal experience, it was nice to have someone watching my back — my husband was able to direct me away from a barracuda that swam right past my leg!
• Find the coral reefs . Most marine life (including fish, turtles, and eels) will congregate around coral reefs and do not stray far from them. Coral reefs tend to form on hard structures, like rocks or other submerged objects. That’s why from the shore, you’ll tend to see snorkelers hanging out around the edges of the beach — like at Black Rock Beach, most snorkelers will stay near the rock. That is where the fish will be!
• Do not touch the marine life . It should go without saying but do not touch the coral reef or sea creatures while you’re snorkeling. Remember, you are visiting their home — not the other way around. Several of the best snorkeling spots in Maui are protected as conservation sites under the federal and state governments, and you can be fined thousands for removing coral from the beaches or touching animals (like sea turtles). Also, please be careful to not step on the coral.
• Wear sunscreen . When you’re snorkeling at these best snorkeling spots in Maui, you’ll be spending a considerable amount of time in direct sunlight. Be sure to lather up with sunscreen (especially your shoulders, back, and the back of your legs, since this skin will be most exposed to the sun). Also, remember to pack sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate, as these chemicals are harmful to coral reefs and banned under the Hawaii 104 Reef Act.
• Bring your own snorkeling equipment . Although many of the best snorkeling spots in Maui have snorkeling gear nearby that is available to rent, it’s much smarter to purchase and pack your own snorkeling gear. It’s worth taking up the extra space in your suitcase — I promise! You will save a ton of money on rentals and have the convenience of being able to snorkel wherever and whenever you want in Maui.
• Pay attention to the crowds. See a large group of snorkelers congregating in a certain area? It’s probably smart to swim over that way. There is usually something really cool to see, like a sea turtle! While it can be tempting to get close, remember to leave plenty of room between yourself and the sea turtles — ten feet is a good buffer.

Best Maui Snorkeling Tours

Though many of the best snorkeling spots in Maui can be discovered just off the beach without a snorkeling tour, some snorkeling spots, like Molokini Crater and Turtle Town, are best explored on a tour. Many snorkeling tours in Maui also include other fun perks, like a boat ride, kayaking, lunch, and more! Here are some of the best snorkeling tours in Maui:

• Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkeling Tour — With over 500 reviews and a 4.5/5 rating, this tour by Mahalo Molokini Snorkeling Charters is easily one of the best snorkeling tours on Maui! It includes breakfast, lunch, and snorkeling at two of Maui’s best snorkeling spots — Turtle Town and Molokini Crater. Snorkeling equipment, showers, and restrooms are included.
• Molokini Snorkel and Performance Sail with Lunch — Depart on a catamaran to Molokini Crater, where you’ll be able to snorkel and swim with tropical fish and other marine life. During the whale-watching season from December to April, you might even see humpback whales on the way! After your snorkeling excursion, you can enjoy a full buffet lunch with drinks, including local beer and wine. Snorkeling equipment is included. This tour from Sail Maui has 4.8/5 stars and more than 150 reviews.
• Turtle Town Kayak and Snorkel Tour — During this three-hour snorkeling tour in Maui, you will be able to go on a two-mile kayaking tour through Turtle Town, where you can snorkel to encounter the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle. You might also have the chance to see manta rays, dolphins, Hawaiian monk seals, and even humpback whales during Maui’s whale-watching season. This tour offered by South Pacific Kayaks Maui has 4.7/5 stars with nearly 300 reviews!
• West Maui Snorkeling & Sailing Day Trip with Lunch — On this snorkeling tour, you will depart from Maalaea Harbor in Maui. You will have the chance to encounter fish and other captivating marine wildlife off the coast of West Maui or along the sparkling cliffs on the coastline of Lāna’i. This five-hour tour by Sail Maui has 200+ reviews and an excellent rating of 4.8/5 stars.

What to Pack for Snorkeling in Maui

Before heading out to one of these best snorkeling spots in Maui, here are a few things you’ll want to bring with you:

• Snorkeling equipment — Unless you plan to rent snorkeling gear, be sure to bring a snorkeling mask and fins with you to the beach. This snorkeling kit package that includes an anti-fog mask, fins, a dry-top snorkel, and a mesh carrying bag is a fantastic deal. If you snorkel more than one time — it will pay for itself!
• Swimsuit — Of course, you’ll need to wear a swimsuit while snorkeling at the best snorkeling spots in Maui. Though it’s not essential, many snorkelers prefer wearing a rash guard for extra sun protection.
• Sunscreen — Wear sunscreen while exploring the best snorkeling spots in Maui, and if you’re spending several hours in the ocean, you should reapply often. Remember to bring sunscreen without oxybenzone or octinoxate. Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen Spray is my favorite sunscreen and is compliant with the Hawaii 104 Reef Act.
• Beach towels — I recommend bringing two beach towels for snorkeling in Maui. You will want to keep one on the beach to sit on (unless you choose to bring a beach chair) and another to dry off with.
• Water and snacks — Be sure to bring plenty of cold water in an insulated cup, like a Hydro Flask or a Stanley Quencher , to stay hydrated, and some snacks to keep you full while snorkeling.
• Underwater camera — If you want to capture photos of marine life while snorkeling in Maui — purchase a high-quality waterproof camera, like the GoPro HERO12 . This is something I would consider bringing next time. We saw tons of sea turtles and eels that I would have loved to capture on camera!

FAQs – Best Snorkeling Spots in Maui

Which part of maui has the best snorkeling.

The west side of Maui (Ka’anapali, Lahaina & Kapalua) and the south side of Maui (Wailea-Makena) have the calmest waters and, therefore, the best snorkeling. The gentle waves, protected bays, and abundant marine life make for excellent snorkeling conditions!

Is Molokini Crater worth it?

If you are interested in seeing as much marine life as possible, yes — Molokini Crater is worth it . The crater attracts a diverse array of aquatic animals, including fish, sea turtles, and even whales during whale-watching season (December to April). Some travelers consider the boat ride to Molokini Crater to be an extra expense and prefer to snorkel at one of the popular (and plentiful!) snorkeling spots right off the beach. It’s completely up to you!

Where is the best place to snorkel in Maui for beginners?

Beginner snorkelers in Maui should look for a protected bay right off the beach that offers calm waves, shallow waters, and accessible coral reefs, like those found at Kapalua Bay on the west side of Maui. Kapalua Bay is widely considered one of the best beaches and safest snorkeling spots in Maui for beginners and kids.

Marvel at the Underwater World at the Best Snorkeling Spots in Maui

Regardless of whether you’re staying in the ritzy resorts in Wailea or the family-friendly accommodations in Ka’anapali — you are sure to find one of the best snorkeling spots in Maui nearby. So, while you’re visiting Maui, be sure to check out at least one (or more!) of the best snorkeling spots in Maui. You won’t regret it!

Save the Best Snorkeling Spots in Maui on Pinterest for Your Hawaiian Vacation

Looking for more things to do in Hawaii? Check out these other posts from Travel by Brit:

• 12 Best Luxury Beachfront Resorts in Maui, Hawaii
• 16 Best Resorts on Oahu for a Luxurious Beachfront Vacation
• 5-Day Itinerary for Oahu, Hawaii 
• 10 Best Things to Do in Waikiki
• Perfect Day Trip to North Shore from Waikiki 
• 15 Fun Free Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii 
• 16 Best Places to Eat on Oahu, Hawaii
• Is Oahu in Honolulu? The Difference Between Oahu, Honolulu & Waikiki

About the Author

Brittany Sawyer

Hi, I'm Brit! I'm a writer from Phoenix, AZ who loves coffee, golden retriever puppies, and obviously, travel! I help ordinary women (like me!) dream, plan, and do extraordinary travel experiences.

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Snorkeling and Sailing Charters in Wailea, Maui

Popular maui tours.

• User All ages
• Hour Glass 3.5-4.25 Hours

Sunrise Deluxe Snorkel

The most exclusive tour on Maui, snorkeling Molokini before any other snorkel boats arrive. Hot cinnamon rolls, a three-course breakfast, plus an open bar make this the best morning of your visit to Maui.

• Hour Glass 2-2.75 Hours

Adventure Whale Watch

Sail with our attentive crew and naturalists as we welcome Pacific humpback whales to their winter home. Our beach-loading location gets you on the water and in nature easily.

MOST POPULAR

Signature Deluxe Molokini Snorkeling Tour

FROM $249.46

Snorkel Molokini and enjoy up to 200 ft. of visibility on our classic Maui adventure. An open bar, Maui Brewing beers and full-service deli lunch in three courses complete the perfect day!

About Kai Kanani

We are a family-owned, 30+ year-old company committed to the quality of your experience in our marine sanctuary. South Maui and the Wailea-Makena area are prized for their beautiful beaches, calm and clear emerald-blue waters, and near perfect weather year round. We gratefully acknowledge our kuleana (responsibility) as caretakers of this South Maui paradise. As a company, we treat each other, our guests and our neighbors with Aloha and respect and we believe that is what keeps Maui such an amazing and beautiful place to visit and to live.

The Kai Kanani II is the only commercial catamaran that lives in South Maui, moored off of Maluaka Beach in Makena. Seven days-a-week, she takes passengers on the short cruise out to Molokini Crater, just 3 miles away, to swim and play in the clearest water in all of Hawaii. Five nights-a-week, the Kai Kanani II raises her sails, taking advantage of our famous afternoon trade winds on our Adventure Sunset Sail. These trips and other special offerings are all crewed by the best group of men and women to grace the blue channels of these islands. Their goal is to create the best memories you’ll take home after your time on Maui.

We feature fresh island foods, all curated by Wailea’s own Spoon & Key Market, a chef-inspired deli and restaurant using ingredients that are locally-sourced and house-cured. Our bar features Maui’s Organic Ocean Vodka, Kula Rum, Fy Gin and wines from MauiWine in Ulupalakua. Kai Kanani’s tours are saturated in local experience and cuisine so that you go away feeling connected and refreshed.

The Beach-Loading Pros

South Maui has a unique beauty unlike anywhere else on the island. For a boat company, there’s one very important feature: there are no boat harbors!

Because of this, Kai Kanani’s passengers “beach-load,” walking through the surf and up on to our gorgeous 65-foot catamaran. Our crew are experts at beach-loading, taking pride in our ability to get everyone of our guests on board as dry and safe as possible for your upcoming tour

For us, it’s part of the adventure! So come prepared to get a little wet while getting on-board. Then sit back and relax while our crew takes care of your every need during your adventure in Maui. Kai Kanani Sailing Charters staff is here to help you and make your adventure on the Kai Kanani II memorable, safe & fun. Let us know if you have any questions or concerns about any part of your excursion with us or any other part of your Maui vacation . We look forward to seeing you out on the water and we’ll see you on-board!

What shoes should you wear? We suggest sandals or flip-flops, shoes that are easily removed as you walk across the beach barefoot. And please bring a towel! Once on board, you’re welcome to wear your sandals or whatever type of shoe you’re comfortable in.

Over 1,000 5-Star Reviews on TripAdvisor

Such a great time. We had so much fun with Capt Anthony, Mikey, Eric, Adam, and Dwight. The food was fabulous. Sounds crazy, but true. Great drinks. Beautiful music. A little slice of paradise in the evening. Highly recommend!

The sunset adventure cruise was fantastic. The captain and crew were welcoming, fun, and informative. Four light courses were served during the cruise and champagne was passed around during sunset. Would recommend for couples or friends looking for a chill evening.

We had an amazing day! We were picked up at our hotel and taken to the beach to meet our catamaran. Then -Crater, fish eel, turtles - breakfast, snack, lunch, ending with cocktails. Service was outstanding! Highly recommend!!!!

A true highlight of our trip to Maui! This tour was wonderful! The crew was beyond friendly & helpful, the snorkeling at the crater & additional stop to swim with sea turtles was truly amazing! The food was fabulous too! Would not hesitate to do this tour again!

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Sailing Tours in Maui: A Journey through Oceanic Wonders

Welcome to the serene and spectacular landscapes of Maui, a place where the ocean unveils its secrets and the winds whisper tales of the seas. Sailing Tours in Maui are a gateway to a world filled with azure waters, vibrant marine life, and heavenly sunsets. Whether you’re an avid sailor or a marine enthusiast yearning for new experiences, the sailing tours here offer an array of unforgettable adventures.

The Enchanting Beauty of Maui

Maui, the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and marine wonders. It’s a place where the mountains meet the sea, creating breathtaking landscapes that leave visitors in awe. The island’s diverse ecosystems and rich cultural heritage make it a sought-after destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

The warm tropical climate, coupled with the gentle breezes of the Pacific, provides ideal conditions for sailing. The crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make every sailing tour a unique experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the enchanting beauty of the ocean.

Embark on Diverse Sailing Adventures

Maui offers a plethora of sailing tours tailored to cater to the diverse preferences of its visitors. Whether it’s the thrill of snorkeling or the tranquility of a sunset cruise, there’s something for everyone.

Maui Snorkeling Tours

Delve into the underwater paradise of Maui with Maui snorkeling tours . Witness the vibrant coral reefs teeming with a myriad of fish species, sea turtles, and other exotic marine creatures. The clear waters offer excellent visibility, ensuring a mesmerizing snorkeling experience.

Guided by experienced instructors, even beginners can safely explore the underwater world and get up close to its inhabitants. The snorkeling spots are carefully chosen to offer the best conditions and marine life sightings, making the tours suitable for both novice and experienced snorkelers.

Sunrise Snorkel Maui

Experience the serene beauty of the ocean at dawn with sunrise snorkel in Maui . As the first rays of the sun light up the sky, the ocean reveals its true colors, offering a unique and tranquil snorkeling experience.

The early morning calm provides ideal conditions for snorkeling, allowing you to explore the reefs in peace, without the crowds. The rising sun enhances the underwater scenery, illuminating the coral formations and marine life in a soft, golden glow. It’s a magical experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it.

Wailea Sunset Cruise

Conclude your day in Maui with a magical Wailea sunset cruise . Sail along the picturesque coastline as the setting sun paints the sky in vibrant shades of orange, pink, and purple. The gentle sea breeze and the soothing sound of the waves create a romantic and relaxing atmosphere, making it a perfect way to end your day.

As you cruise along the calm waters, keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and other marine life that frequent the area. The panoramic views of the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean are truly mesmerizing, offering ample photo opportunities to capture the moment.

Expert Guidance and Safety

Whether it’s your first time on a sailing tour or you’re a seasoned sailor, the experienced and friendly crews ensure your safety and enjoyment throughout the journey. They share interesting facts and stories about the local marine life and ecosystems, enriching your sailing experience.

All necessary equipment and instructions are provided, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone on board. The crew’s local knowledge and expertise allow them to choose the best spots and routes, maximizing your chances of witnessing the diverse marine life and scenic beauty of Maui.

Conclusion: A Nautical Journey Like No Other

Sailing tours in Maui offer an unparalleled opportunity to explore the pristine waters and witness the vibrant marine life of the island. The diverse range of tours available caters to all preferences and skill levels, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.

Whether you’re exploring the colorful coral reefs, witnessing the serene beauty of a sunrise, or enjoying the romantic ambiance of a sunset cruise, sailing tours in Maui promise a nautical adventure like no other. So come, set sail, and let the winds guide you through the enchanting waters of Maui, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore the Magic of Molokini Crater Snorkeling

Discover the enchanting world beneath the waves with molokini crater snorkeling , a must-do adventure for anyone visiting Maui. This crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater offers crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a plethora of marine life, making it an ideal destination for snorkelers of all levels.

Why Molokini Crater is Unique

Molokini Crater, a protected marine conservation area, is renowned for its exceptional water clarity, with visibility often exceeding 100 feet. The crater’s unique geography creates a natural sanctuary for hundreds of fish species, many of which are endemic to Hawaii. From the colorful parrotfish to the elusive octopus, Molokini offers an underwater spectacle that is second to none.

What to Expect When Snorkeling at Molokini

When you embark on a molokini snorkeling adventure, you’re in for an experience of a lifetime. The crater’s calm and clear waters make it perfect for beginners, while the diverse marine life and underwater terrain offer plenty to explore for the more experienced snorkeler.

Preparing for Your Snorkeling Trip

Before you dive into the waters of Molokini, it’s important to prepare. Make sure to choose a reputable snorkeling tour that prioritizes safety and environmental conservation. Additionally, familiarize yourself with Maui snorkeling techniques and equipment to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Environmental Conservation Efforts

Preserving the natural beauty of Molokini Crater is a top priority. As visitors, it’s our responsibility to respect and protect this delicate ecosystem. By choosing eco-friendly tours and adhering to conservation guidelines, we can help ensure that Molokini remains a pristine snorkeling destination for generations to come.

Additional Snorkeling Spots Around Maui

While Molokini Crater is a jewel in Maui’s crown, the island offers numerous other snorkeling spots worth exploring. From the vibrant coral gardens of snorkeling in Maui to the serene waters of Kapalua Bay, each location offers its own unique charm and marine life.

As you plan your snorkeling in Maui adventure, remember that the island’s beauty extends beyond its beaches. The rich cultural heritage, lush landscapes, and warm Aloha spirit make every visit to Maui an unforgettable journey.

Embarking on a Molokini Crater snorkeling trip not only offers an opportunity to explore one of the world’s most exceptional underwater environments but also invites you to become part of a community dedicated to preserving the beauty and diversity of Maui’s marine life. Dive in and discover the magic that lies beneath the surface.

Imagine riding on a large power catamaran or kayaking on the open ocean. When you reach your destination, you slip into the water and experience an underwater world that looks like something out of a movie. That’s what you can expect from Maui snorkel tours.

When it comes to booking Maui snorkel tours, there are five main locations to consider. Our favorite place to snorkel is Honolua Bay with Gemini Charters . However, you can’t go wrong with any of these locations, as they all offer stunning underwater environments to explore.

• Honolua Bay Tours – Diverse fish, stunning corals, pristine bay
• Lanai Island Tours – Secluded, dramatic cliffs, vibrant reefs
• Molokini Crater Tours – Unique volcanic formation, abundant marine life
• Olowalu Coral Gardens Tours – Expansive coral gardens, turtle haven, blacktip reef sharks
• Turtle Town Tours – Sea turtles galore, lush coral, lava arches

Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or new to the underwater world, these Maui snorkel tours offer a fantastic experience for everyone. So, grab your snorkel gear, and let’s dive into the magical underwater landscape that awaits you in Maui.

Honolua Bay Snorkel Tours

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Snorkeling at Honolua Bay is a personal favorite for us. It’s in West Maui (where we like to stay), so it’s an easy trip for anyone near Ka'anapali. This area is also a Marine Life Conservation District with no fishing allowed, making the ocean life abundant and diverse. It’s one of the few places I’ve consistently seen large schools of fish, as pictured above.

Honolua Bay is surrounded by lush green cliffs and dense tropical vegetation, creating a stunning backdrop for your snorkeling adventure. Its crystal-clear waters are home to 300 species of fish and a common gathering spot for green sea turtles.

It’s possible to snorkel here without booking Maui snorkel tours. However, it requires a small hike and then a not-so-small swim to where the coral is at. Your best bet is to sit back and relax on a boat while they take you directly to the best spots to snorkel. Trust us, it’s worth it!

Gemini’s Afternoon Snorkel Tour

We’ve done Gemini’s tour with family and friends many times, and it’s one of our favorite boats in one of our favorite locations. This tour is great for late risers as it’s one of the few that doesn’t start first thing in the morning. Included is a delicious hot buffet lunch and refreshing drinks from the complimentary open bar once you’ve finished snorkeling for the day.

Sea Maui’s West Maui Snorkel Tour

Join Sea Maui’s half-day snorkel tour from Ka'anapali Beach. Cruise to top snorkel spots with an experienced captain and discover green sea turtles, tropical fish, and the chance to see dolphins or whales in season. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and drinks onboard. Snorkel gear is provided. Please note this tour may visit a different location based on the day’s conditions.

Lanai Island is one of three outer islands you can see off the coast of Maui. It’s renowned for being remote and secluded, with dramatic cliffs and vibrant reefs. The waters surrounding Lanai are known for their exceptional clarity, making it an ideal destination for underwater exploration.

If you’re looking to escape the crowds, a snorkel tour to Lanai Island is a great choice. It’s not as heavily trafficked as some of the other snorkel locations because it’s much further out. However, I’ve seen some people complain that you spend more time on the boat than snorkeling. Personally, I didn’t find that to be an issue, especially during whale watching season!

There are a few different locations that your tour may take you to, depending on the day’s conditions, including Shark Fin Cove and Manele Bay. On your way back to Maui, keep your eyes peeled for a chance to spot a pod of spinner dolphins playing in the water. We were fortunate enough to see dolphins the last time we were out there, and it was a real treat!

PWF’s Lanai Snorkel Tour

Join Pacific Whale Foundation’s 5-hour dolphin watch and snorkeling adventure from Ma’alaea Harbor. Sail to Lanai’s renowned dive spots, spotting Hawaiian Spinner, bottlenose, and spotted dolphins. Dive into vibrant coral reefs, equipped with provided gear. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and refreshments on this eco-friendly catamaran, with chances to see humpback whales (Dec-Apr).

Trilogy’s Lanai Day Trip and Snorkel

Embark on the ultimate day trip with Trilogy Excursions, sailing from Maui to the enchanting Lanai Island. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Hulopo’e Bay for snorkeling, hike to Sweetheart Rock, explore tide pools, and relish a scrumptious breakfast and BBQ lunch. Enjoy 3 hours of free time at the bay, with options for swimming, volleyball, and soaking up the sun. Don’t miss this fantastic Lanai adventure, departing from central Maui’s Ma'alaea Harbor.

Molokini Crater is a small, crescent-shaped volcanic crater located off the coast between South Maui and the island of Kaho‘olawe. It’s designated as a Marine Life Conservation District with calm and protected waters that make it an ideal location for snorkeling and diving.

I’ve heard mixed reviews about snorkeling at Molokini Crater , including poor water clarity and being too crowded. So I was shocked when we visited, and it ended up being some of the clearest water we’ve snorkeled in Maui (see the pics above). This was also confirmed by our captain, who said the visibility is typically an incredible 150 feet!

Sure, Molokini is one of the more crowded snorkeling spots in Maui, but I didn’t find that to be an issue. There’s plenty of space to spread out, and you don’t have to swim far to see some of the 250 species of marine life that call this area home.

An added benefit of snorkeling at Molokini Crater is that most tours also make a second stop at a location near Kihei we’ll discuss below called Turtle Town. If you’re looking to maximize your time in the water by snorkeling at two locations, a Molokini snorkel tour might be for you.

Pride of Maui’s Molokini Snorkel Tour

Adventure to not one but two snorkeling locations with this Molokini Crater and Turtle Town tour from Pride of Maui. Cruise on a large power catamaran as you explore the underwater lava formations and abundant marine life at these exceptional snorkeling sites. Enjoy the convenience of an all-inclusive trip with meals, snacks, and drinks provided on board, including alcoholic beverages.

Calypso’s Molokini Snorkel Tour

Experience the ultimate snorkeling adventure to Molokini and Turtle Town aboard Calypso Charters’ spacious catamaran, equipped with a glass-bottom viewing area, water slides, and multiple amenities. Enjoy a delicious breakfast and deli lunch while exploring the vibrant marine life and clear waters of these two premier snorkel locations.

Olowalu is home to one of the most expansive coral reef ecosystems in all of Hawaii. It gets the name Coral Gardens because it boasts over 100 acres of diverse coral formations, and it’s a sight to behold. Just check out the drone shot above, and you’ll see what I mean!

The Coral Gardens are home to an impressive variety of marine life. In addition to a kaleidoscope of tropical fish, snorkelers may also see a turtle cleaning station, manta ray cleaning station, eels, octopuses, and blacktip reef sharks.

Snorkeling at Olowalu’s Coral Gardens can be done from the beach without booking Maui snorkel tours. It’s actually one of our favorite non-resort beaches near Ka'anapali, as you can pull your car right up to your spot. However, if you are interested in a tour, most are kayak tours and are a fun way to get some exercise while exploring with a guide that knows the good spots.

Olowalu Kayak Snorkel Tour

Paddle along the picturesque Olowalu coastline on a guided kayak tour from South Pacific Kayaks. Snorkel with vibrant tropical fish, encounter Green Sea Turtles, and keep an eye out for manta rays, dolphins, and even the elusive Hawaiian monk seal. With provided gear, light refreshments, and encounters with marine wildlife, this tour is perfect for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

Olowalu Clear Kayak Snorkel Tour

Experience the wonders of the sea with Ohana Ocean Adventures’ Olowalu Coral Gardens snorkel tour in Maui. Glide through the crystal-clear waters on a clear kayak and explore the vibrant marine life, from colorful fish to graceful sea turtles. With provided equipment, snacks, and bottled water, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure for an unforgettable journey under the waves.

Turtle Town is a snorkeling hotspot known for its abundance of sea turtles located off the southern coast of Maui, near the town of Makena (south of Kihei). It’s not an officially designated site but rather a term used to describe the general area where sea turtles are commonly found.

Beyond the sea turtles, snorkelers can encounter an array of tropical fish species while exploring Turtle Town. The waters surrounding Turtle Town boast vibrant and diverse coral reefs, providing a rich habitat for a variety of marine life.

If you’re taking a trip to snorkel at Molokini Crater, there’s a good chance you’ll end up here as a second stop. We’ve included one combo tour below. If you’re looking to only snorkel at Turtle Town, then we’d recommend a kayak snorkel tour, which is perfect for this area.

PWF’s Turtle Town & Molokini Snorkel Tour

This Pacific Whale Foundation snorkel tour stops at both Turtle Town and Molokini Crater, giving your two locations to explore for the price of one! The tour starts out with breakfast followed by a flavorful lunch grilled onboard once the snorkeling is over. Premium snorkel gear, snorkel instruction, and a Junior Naturalist Program for kids are provided, ensuring an unforgettable and educational experience.

Maui Kayak’s Turtle Town Snorkel Tour

Paddle through the calm and clear waters of South Maui on this Turtle Town kayak snorkel tour with Maui Kayaks. This small-group eco-adventure ensures a personalized experience as you spot not only turtles but also dolphins, rays, octopuses, and eels. All necessary equipment, snacks, and bottled water are included, making it a family-friendly tour suitable for ages five and up.

Maui Snorkel Tours Map and FAQs

The locations where you can take a snorkel tour are spread out across West Maui and South Maui , and the neighboring islands. While a location might not be close to where you’re staying, don’t rule it out. Many snorkel tours depart from either Lahaina Harbor in West Maui or Ma'alaea Harbor in South Maui, making them accessible no matter where you’re staying.

Only reef-safe sunscreens are allowed in Maui. Look for mineral-based sunscreens with the ingredients zinc oxide or titanium dioxide . Only those are allowed. All others contain chemicals that are harmful to the coral reef and cause coral bleaching .

While Maui’s waters are teeming with marine life, including sea turtles, encounters with specific animals cannot be guaranteed. There’s always a chance that you won’t see a turtle. However, the chances of spotting turtles or other fascinating marine species are quite high. It ultimately depends on nature and the specific conditions of the day.

In the event of unfavorable weather conditions, the captain may choose a different location or reschedule the tour altogether. It’s more common that the location will change than a complete reschedule, but it can happen. If the location does change, it’s usually to a comparable location that’s better protected from the wind.

Many snorkel tours accommodate children of all ages, and some even have a Jr. Naturalist Program for kids. Each child’s swimming abilities and comfort level should be taken into account before deciding to include them. It’s best to check with individual tour operators before booking.

Maui sees thousands of visitors a year, straining the ecosystem. Here are three main things you can do to help and keep Maui’s coral reef beautiful for years to come.

• Only use reef-safe sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
• Avoid touching or standing on the coral reef. It’s fragile, and doing so can kill it.
• Don’t touch marine life, especially turtles which carry a hefty fine.

Meet the Authors

Aloha! We’re Justin and Katie, the owners of Maui Hideaway. We’ve been visiting Hawaii together with our family for 20 years and would love to share the experience of the islands with you. Whether you’re looking for a place to stay or just some vacation advice, we’re here to help!

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Malolo Molokini

Molokini, maui snorkeling tours, whale watching, marine life, history and more, our maui snorkeling tours, scenic and whale watching adventures:.

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Afternoon Molokini or Coral Gardens Snorkel Tour

Join us on our awesome afternoon snorkeling adventure of Coral Gardens or Molokini Crater aboard our fun catamaran, the Malolo!  All your gear, drinks and food included.

Molokini Crater & Turtle Town, Maui Snorkeling

Experience Maui’s famous snorkeling and diving destinations Molokini Crater and Turtle Town on a snorkeling catamaran!

Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise

Come join us aboard the Malolo for a delicious meal and cocktails while you watch the world-famous Maui sunset.

Maui Whale Watching Tour

Enjoy an amazing, narrated whale watching tour in Maui during whale season (Dec – April) for a lifetime experience!

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Aloha, and Welcome to the Malolo Molokini Maui Snorkeling Tours!

Dive into the backstory of Molokini, a volcanic formation, including its geology, mythology, history, and wildlife. How did that little islet get out there, and what is it made of? What are the details of the tragic, romantic legends surrounding the crater? Can you really find artifacts from World War II in the middle of the coral reef?

The answers to these questions and many more are now at your fingertips. Check out the “Molokini Info” tab to learn more. But, how do you get to the crater after you read about it? Well, no matter how well you can swim, Molokini is really only accessible by boat.

We will tell you about several boats that can bring you out there. The underwater visibility at the crater is incredible. The ocean adventure while voyaging there is so much fun. Plus, the sights you’ll see beneath the surface are unparalleled! Enjoy whale watching in Maui, a sunset cruise, snorkeling and more. Book your Molokini Crater adventure today!

Maui snorkeling tours are – plain and simple – endless fun!

Maui activities.

In addition to a visit to Molokini, you will find a variety of fantastic Maui activities. See all of the other great activities you won’t want to miss when you visit Maui!

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Deluxe Maui Snorkel Rentals Set Includes 1 Top Quality Silicone Mask This premium silicone mask features a 100% silicone skirt with tempered glass lenses.

Turtle Town

Turtle Town is an amazing destination off the south coast of Maui and with our awesome snorkeling tours you’ll get to see them up close and personal!

Our Maui Whale Watching Tours, Sunset Cruises, Snorkeling and More Are ★★★★★

My friend and I had a great time on this tour. The food was very tasty (continental breakfast & sandwich lunch) and the drinks available for purchase were strong & very reasonably priced. The snorkeling was amazing & I could've snorkeled all day long. Staff was very professional, efficient & friendly. I highly recommend this tour.

This was a very fun day! We first stopped at Molokini crater to snorkel. The water was very clear and we saw a good variety of fish in the ree Overall this was an excellent trip! We saw much larger boats with a lot of people, but this boat was a good size with an excellent mooring space. I would highly recommend this trip!

Great crew and experience! I've snorkeled before but my boyfriend hadn't and they made him feel super comfortable. You get about 1 hour in the actual water but the water around Molokini was clear and calm even though getting out there was a little rough. The drinks at the end were a nice touch! Would go back with this crew next time!

Our family had a wonderful experience with the sunrise Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkeling adventure. The staff were casual, friendly, and fun. The trip was well organized and the snorkeling was fantastic. We saw 7 sea turtles and they offer lots of mechanism (e.g. boogie boards and floatation belts) that supported my son feel comfortable.

Snorkeling Tours Maui

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WIKI WIKI MOLOKINI SNORKEL

MA'ALAEAWIKI

This 3.5 hour tour brings you to the crystal clear waters of the Molokini crater offering visitors a snorkeling experience among a kaleidoscope of coral and more than 250 species of tropical fish. Includes a light breakfast and lunch!

Adults (Ages 13 and older): $136.45

Children (Ages 5- 12 ): $94.95

Ages 7 and older only

CAPTAIN’S CALL AFTERNOON SNORKEL

The highlight of your adventure awaits below the surface at one of Mauiʻs most pristine snorkel sites, such as Coral Gardens, Olowalu or even Molokini. With a maximum capacity at just 34 guests, you’ll enjoy a personal and custom experience, made just for you.

Adults (Ages 13 and older): 104.95

Children (Ages 5- 12 ): Regular price $74.95

Ages 7 and up only

MOLOKINI & TURTLE ARCHES SNORKEL

Molokinii is a protected marine conservation area and is known for it’s beautiful reef with crystal clear waters, abundant coral, colorful fish, and resting seabirds. You second snorkeling spot is Turtle Arches with its underwater lava formations, coral reefs and frequent Green Sea turtle sightings.

20% Discount

Adults (Ages 13 and older): $199.94 Discount price $159.95

Children (Ages 5- 12 ): Regular price$137.44 Discount price $109.95

Age 0-4 free, one per paying adult

MOLOKINI & TURTLE TOWN SNORKEL

Molokini is the most ideal spot for snorkeling in the clearest water in the world, where you can see hundreds of species of fish. Your 4-hour Molokini Crater excursion also includes a second spot in turtle town – home to Hawaiian green sea turtles

Duration 4 Hours

Adults (Ages 5 and older): $159

  LANAI SNORKEL & DOLPHIN WATCH

Cruise to the scenic coastline of Lanaʻi island and snorkel a dazzling coral reef, home to abundant sea life. Wild dolphins are found in bays and offshore, including acrobatic spinner dolphins, friendly bottlenose dolphins, and curious spotted dolphins. Humpback whales are also common from Dec. to April.

Duration 5 Hours

Adults (Ages 13 and older):

Regularly $199.95   Discount price $167.95

Children (Ages 12 and under): Regularly $137.44 Discount price $115.45

Age 0-4 one free per paying adult

MOLOKINI WILD SIDE SNORKEL MA'ALAEA

Snorkel the iconic volcanic crater and its beautiful reef known for crystal clear waters, abundant coral, colorful fish, and resting seabirds. A flexible itinerary includes visiting a second snorkel location, determined by our expert crew based on conditions of the day.

Duration 6 Hours

Adults (Ages 13 and older): Regularly $188.95

Children (Ages 7-12 ): $146.95

Minimum Age 7 Years Old

MOLOKINI EXCLUSIVE SNORKEL SAIL

This is our only cruise visiting Molokini aboard our sailing cat, Ocean Spirit. With this small group setting operating at 50% capacity, you’ll enjoy Maui’s most popular snorkel destination without the crowds.

Adults (Ages 13 and older): $239.95

Children (Ages 7-12): $188.95

Children under 4 are free

HONOLUA BAY SNORKEL SAIL

Come aboard Ocean Spirit, a luxury sailing catamaran, and cruise the beautiful Kaʻanapali coastline to the breathtaking waters of Honolua Bay.

Adults (Ages 13 and older): $178.45

Children (Ages 7-12): $125.95

One per paying adult

MOLOKINI SNORKEL & PERFORMANCE SAIL-MA'ALAEA

The wonders of nature have blessed this spectacular, crescent shaped crater. Molokini, a natural marine preserve and bird sanctuary, is one of the most visually stimulating snorkel experiences.

Adults 13 and older $185

Children ages 3-12 $130

Children 2 and under free

Get ready to encounter the majestic Hawaiian giant green sea turtles, known as Honu, along with a variety of vibrant marine life including reef trigger-fish, star-fish, butterfly-fish, octopus, rays, eels, and more at Turtle Town, Coral Garden, and/or Olowalu Reef.

Duration 3 Hours

9:00 am to 12:00 pm 3-hour tour, includes breakfast, appetizers, snorkeling

1:00 pm to 4:00 pm 3-hour tour, includes lunch, appetizers, snorkeling

HONOLUA BAY SNORKEL SAIL LAHAINA

Congratulations, Early Riser! Molokini Crater is yours alone! Kai Kanani’s Sunrise Deluxe Snorkel is truly the most exclusive and beautiful snorkeling tour on Maui.

Duration 3.5 Hours

Departing from Makena

Adult 13+ $279.79   Child 2-12 $229.03 Infant Free

Transportation Available

Experiencing Molokini’s pristine reef and marine life without the crowds is Kai Kanani’s privilege due to our exclusive South Maui location, timing our 65-foot luxury catamaran

Adult 13+ $249.46 Child $198.92 Infant Free

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Snorkel On Ali'i Nui

Molokini deluxe snorkel.

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[2024] Best Snorkeling in Maui – Self-Guided and Boat Tours

Last Updated January 8, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Attractions & Experiences » [2024] Best Snorkeling in Maui – Self-Guided and Boat Tours

If you’re planning a trip to the island of Maui in Hawaii, no doubt a dip into the warm turquoise waters is on your mind. What better way to explore the underwater oasis than to know where you can find the best snorkeling in Maui.

Whether these are self-guided spots on the island you can jump in yourself or guided experience, we’re going to show you must-do spots from well-known to secret.

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In This Article

Kapalua Bay Beach

Ahihi kinau natural area reserve, honolua bay, napili beach, black rock on ka’anapali beach, molokini and turtle town boat tours, dolphins and snorkeling cruise to lanai, kayak and snorkel tour, sup and snorkel turtle town, map of all snorkeling spots, things you need to pack, how to protect marine life, beaches, and coral, frequently asked questions, best snorkeling in maui.

Created from volcanic eruptions 20,000 years ago, the surrounding waters of Maui are teeming with aquatic life, colourful reef, and crystalline waters.

In between walking the streets of Lahaina and waking up early in the morning to see the sun rise from Haleakala, snorkeling is right up there when it comes to the top things to do in Maui .

With each location, we’ll jump straight into the need-to-know details including a handy summary.

BEFORE YOU CONTINUE 

Find out how you can plan an amazing 5 days in Maui with this detailed itinerary.

5 day Maui itinerary

Self-Guided Snorkeling in Maui

There are so many good snorkeling spots in Maui but since you won’t be able to go to them all, lets focus on the best snorkeling locations.

As one of the most popular beaches on the island and regularly named “best beach in the world” , this crescent shaped cove is ideal for snorkeling.

Here, you’ll find excellent swimming conditions, sandy beach, and tons of marine life. Chances of seeing sea turtles is good, just make sure you’re on the look out.

Beyond snorkeling, the large beach is also just great for kicking back and relaxing. Depending on the time of day, there can be some shade here but you might be better off bringing a beach umbrella .

The only challenge here is that it gets really busy so most people recommend that you come here early before the rush or late in the day closer to sunset.

Lastly, combine your time here with a bit of hiking along the spectacular Kapalua Coastal Trail .

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Location: West Maui

Address:  Kapalua Bay Beach, Kapalua, HI 96761

• Primary free small lot adjacent to the street, Bay Street Pl..
• Street parking along the main Lower Honoapiilani Rd. but beware of which side you park on.
• Merriman’s Kapalua restaurant has a lot and they charge $10 for valet parking.
• Kapalua Tennis Garden charges $10 for their lot.

Size:  Large

Depth: 0-12 feet

What you will see: Mainly fish (Scorpion Fish, Cornet Fish, Jacks, Butterflyfish, Parrotfish, Goat Fish, Moorish Idol, Box Fish, Perch, Triggerfish, Chub) , limited coral, and a good to see turtles.

Entrance:  Sandy

Difficulty: Easy

Great for kids?: Yes

Best time to visit: Before 9AM or after 4PM.

Closest hotels: Montage Kapalua Bay , Napili Kai Beach Resort , The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua

Rental: Beach chairs and umbrellas available for rent.

Facilities: Lifeguards, change rooms, and restrooms.

Nearby activities: Kapalua Coastal Trail

This area is believed to be one of the youngest eco-reef zones on Maui. With its jagged coastline, lava rock, and coral reef, this is a natural haven for tropical fish.

You won’t need to venture out too far here as most of the fish tend to hang out in the shallow water. There are also plenty of coves (Ahihi Cove) to explore here, making this a top spot for anyone visiting Maui.

As a reserve, not only will you see plenty of fish and turtles, but you might also be lucky enough to spot octopus, eel, and lobster.

One thing to note is that there is no real sandy beach here so this is not the kind of spot where you’ll be able to comfortably lay out your towel and umbrella.

To keep you safe, the reserve has signs featuring a Tang fish that show you where it’s safe to enter.

With its volcanic rock, it’s highly recommended that you wear swim socks or water shoes.

Location: South Maui

Address:  7750 Makena Rd, Kihei, HI 96753

Parking: There is a new and free (used to be $5) parking lot for the reserve with lots of spots.

Depth: 0-10 feet

What you will see: Lots of fish (tang, squirrelfish, goatfish, jacks, needlefish, chub, butterflyfish, parrotfish, and sea cucumbers), plenty of coral, and a high chance of encountering turtles.

Entrance:  Sandy and volcanic rock

Difficulty: Intermediate (tricky entrance)

Great for kids?: No

Best time to visit: Early in the morning when the water is the clearest.

Closest hotels: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Rental: None

Facilities: Bathrooms at the parking lot.

Nearby activities: Makena State Park and La Perouse Bay (lava fields)

There’s something magical about this place. This used to be a hidden spot best known as a killer surfing spot but it’s becoming more and more popular for snorkeling as well.

The experience starts from the access trail where you descend into a tropical enchanted forest. After the short walk (5-10 minutes), you’ll arrive at the rocky bay surrounded by high rocky cliffs.

On the right side of the bay is the renowned surf break but it’s pretty far out that it shouldn’t affect your snorkeling.

In terms of entering into the water, don’t go in near the center. Instead, go either to the right hand side (north) where there’s more coral and fish. Alternatively, the left side (south) is also a hot spot for sightings.

While not necessarily for advanced snorkelers, the current, rocks, and the crashing of waves on both sides of the bay means you need to be careful. When the weather causes rough water conditions, this isn’t a great spot to be.

There’s almost no sand here so this is the kind of place where you come specifically for the snorkeling. Bring your own gear and snacks!

You’ll also commonly find boats moored here for as part of guided snorkel experiences.

Address:  Lahaina, HI 96761

Parking: There is a small (free) parking lot that fills up quickly. You can also park roadside along Honoapiilani Hwy in a few areas.

Depth: 0-30 feet

What you will see: Lots of fish, decent amount of coral, and a high chance of encountering turtles.

Entrance:  Rocky

Difficulty: Intermediate

Closest hotels: The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua

Facilities: Porta-potties in the parking lot.

Nearby activities: Kapalua Golf

Nestled between Kahana and Kapalua is this residential community, this is a comfortable and peaceful beach.

Great places to snorkel here are near the edges of the bay where you’ll find some of the reef. Here, you’ll see needlefish, surgeonfish, and Humuhumunukunukuapua’a . If you’re lucky, you’ll also encounter green sea turtles that usually make their appearance near sunrise and sunset.

This beach is great for families because of the sandy shoreline, making it great for lounging, using the boogie board, digging in the sand, and running around.

The sunsets here are absolutely stunning.

Address:  53 Hui Dr, Lahaina, HI 96761

Parking: There are a couple of options for parking similar to Kapalua Bay and just as limited:

• Small lot at the end of Napili Pl..
• Park at Snorkel Bob’s lot and walk to the beach.
• Similar paid parking options for Kapalua Bay.

There is a small (free) parking lot that fills up quickly. You can also park roadside along Honoapiilani Hwy in a few areas. You could also use the Kapalua Beach lot.

Size:  Medium

What you will see: Lots of fish but without much coral, and some chance of encountering turtles.

Best time to visit: Early in the morning and on weekdays when it’s less busy. Afternoons for sunsets are great as well.

Closest hotels: Hale Napili , Napili Sunset Beach Front Resort , Napili Surf Beach Resort , and Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger .

Rental: Activity cabana (if not available, you can go to Napili Shores that has full-service rental)

Facilities: Bathrooms, activity rental cabana but no public change rooms or showers. (You can try to use showers at the north end of the beach for Hale Resort guests)

Ka’anapali Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Maui. With its close proximity to Lahaina, white sandy beach, boardwalk, resorts, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, it’s a great place to stay for awhile.

While the whole of Ka’anapali Beach is somewhere that is great to sunbathe on the sand but a bit of a hidden gem is on the far north side of the beach – Black Rock.

Typically known for “that rock you jump off of”, the secret is that there is quite the cluster of reefs right below. Combine that with crystal clear waters, diverse sightings of fish, and Hawaiian green sea turtles, it’s no wonder that people keep coming back here.

To find the best snorkel spots, swim along the lava rock’s edge.

The beach is perfect for families and kids but I’d say that the snorkeling is better for those that have snorkelled a couple of times before.

Parking: There isn’t parking specific for Black Rock Beach but access to Ka’anapali Beach has the following parking options:

• There are 15 spots at the free multi-level public lot shared with the Sheraton.
• There’s free parking for Whaler’s Village but you need to get it validated with purchase (gives you 3 hours and afterwards it’s $2.50/hour). Full day parking here is $20.
• The Westin is said to have free parking for public access to the beach as well but details are a bit sketchy.
• Most other resorts offer resort parking for a fee such as Ka’anapali Beach Hotel where one traveller said if you rent a cabana from Trilogy, they’ll validate your parking at the hotel.

Best time to visit: Early in the morning for parking reasons and on weekdays when it’s less busy. Afternoons for sunsets are great as well.

Closest hotels: Ka’anapali Beach Hotel , Aston at The Whaler , The Westin Maui , and Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club .

Facilities: Showers and bathrooms (you can use them as change rooms) are right on the beach.

Nearby activities: Things to do in Lahaina

Now this is the kind of place that you’d never stumble upon because it’s so off the beaten path (it doesn’t even have a TripAdvisor listing). Typically, this is a spot for scuba divers but experienced snorkelers can come here as well.

This spot is ominously also known as Five Graves for the small graveyard that’s located next to the beach. Don’t worry, it has nothing to do with the snorkel site.

North of Turtle Town, there’s a plethora of unique fish, turtles, eagle rays, and even reef sharks to see here.

Again, we should stress that this is for experienced explorers as the variable ocean conditions and long snorkel distances can make this tricky to so make sure you go with a buddy.

You’re probably wondering about the caves. Unfortunately, most of the caves are out of reach for snorkelers.

Address:  5090 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

Parking: There’s a dirt lot on the side of the road across the street from where you’ll find the small blue beach access sign that’s sandwiched between two houses. Alternatively, you could try Makena Landing parking lot that’s 1/4 mile further down.

Depth: 0-25 feet

What you will see: Great chance to see a bit of everything although not necessarily known for its coral.

Difficulty: Advanced

Best time to visit: The earlier the better for the best visibility.

Closest hotels: Fairmont Kea Lani , Makena Surf Hyatt Residence , and Direct Oceanfront House (epic luxury home rental).

Facilities: None

Nearby activities: Chang’s Beach, Makena Landing, and Maluaka Beach.

Guided Snorkeling Maui Tours

So far we’ve listed all of the best snorkeling spots on the island of Maui that you can get to from land but I haven’t been able to touch on the most well-known spots like Turtle Town and Molokini and that’s because you can only access those by boat.

Let’s get into the best tours you can book for some incredible snorkeling in Maui.

This is unquestionably the most popular tour to book in Maui. This tour starts with the crescent-shaped crater that’s 2.5 miles off of Maui’s south shore – Molokini Crater .

As a Marine Life Conservation District Seabird Sanctuary, you’ll have an incredible view of the volcanic crater as you make your approach by boat (15 minute ride) but where you’ll be exploring is the submerged volcano islet (one of very few in the world).

Snorkeling here will allow you to see a sample of the 250 species of endemic Hawaiian tropical fish and colorful reef formations in superbly clear waters.

To set expectations, I will say that these are large group boat tours and so when you’re dropped into the water, you’ll want to find your own space to explore but at the same time, keep an eye on your group so you don’t get left behind. You’ll also be around other boat tours dropping in.

The second spot you’ll visit is Turtle Town . As the name aptly describes, this is the place to be if you want to see Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Before jumping in, you’ll learn about why these turtles are protected, why they are endangered, and the importance of things like reef safe sunscreen .

There are typically two options for this tour. One is to go in the morning where continental breakfast and deli lunch is included . The second departs slightly later in the morning and includes a buffet lunch .

This entire experience is family friendly and hands-down the best tour you can do while you’re in Maui.

Location: Ma’alaea Harbor

Address:  192 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793 (Maui Ocean Center)

Parking: Maui Ocean Center has free parking by the harbor. Paid parking available at the harbor.

Total tour time: 5.5 hours (Start time: 6:30AM for breakfast or 7:30AM for buffet lunch tour )

Snorkel time: 1 to 1.5 hours

What’s included: Guide, snorkel gear, life jackets, soft drinks, and meals.

Rental: Wetsuit and underwater cameras.

Facilities: Catamaran has bathrooms and showers

Reviews: Molokini Crater

A lesser known snorkeling cruise is this one that takes you out to the neighbouring small island of Lanai.

After a relaxing 45 minute boat ride to the isolated coast of Lanai, you’ll be able to spend 1.5 to 2 hours snorkeling to see a variety of fish, sea turtles, and if you’re lucky, dolphins that swim circles above the reef.

Some of the sites you’ll be able to snorkel are Shark Fin Rock and Manele Bay.

Included in the journey is breakfast and lunch.

What I like about this experience is that it departs from Lahaina which can be a huge bonus for many if you’re staying in the area.

This tour is also great for kids with the water slide off the boat and the water toys that are included.

Location: Lahaina

Address:  675 Wharf St, Lahaina, HI 96761

Parking: Since this is right in the heart of Lahaina, you’ll have to look for parking in town. You can find free parking at the corner of Prison Street and Front Street but it has a 3 hour limit. The largest lot is the parking lot f or Outlets of Maui where you can stay as long as you like and will be a better option for this tour.

Start time: 7:00AM

Total tour time: 5 hours

Snorkel time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Rental/extras: Wetsuit, underwater cameras, and SNUBA.

If you’re looking for the unique combination of kayaking and snorkeling all-in-one, this is it.

With this guided experience, you’ll be able to explore Maui’s West Shore. In either a single or tandem kayak, you’ll paddle with views of Ukumehame Valley while your instructor provides commentary.

For the snorkel portion of the tour, you’ll jump straight into the water from your kayak where you’ll have a chance to see coral, schools of fish, and turtles.

Location: Ukumehame Beach Park

Address:  615 Honoapiilani Hwy, Lahaina, HI 96761, United States

Parking: The beach park has its own free parking lot right off the highway.

Start time: 7:30AM or 11AM

Total tour time: 2.5 hours

Snorkel time: 45 minutes

What’s included: Guide, kayak, snorkel gear, life jackets, and light refreshments.

Rental/extras: Photography package

Facilities: Ukumehame Beach Park has 6 picnic tables, 4 BBQ pits, and 2 porta-potties for restroom facilities.

If stand-up paddleboarding is your thing or if you’re looking to learn and try it for the first time, you’ll love this tour that brings you right into Turtle Town.

This experience is made for everyone from 3 years to 83 years old. As a small and private tour, you’ll have the advantage of having a guide teach you how to paddleboard and also take you to the best spots to snorkel.

For many, this is the highlight of their time in Maui with extremely high chances of seeing green sea turtles. You’ll probably lose count of how many you’ll encounter.

If you’re travelling with a small child, they can be your “ocean babysitter” with your child sitting safely in front of the paddleboard with the guide.

Location: Makena Landing Park

Address:  5083 Makena Rd, Kihei, HI 96753

Parking: The beach park has its own free parking lot.

What’s included: Guide, stand-up paddleboard, snorkel gear, life jackets, water bottle, and snacks.

Rental/extras: Souvenir photos

Facilities: Bathroom facilities at Makena Ladning Park.

See all of the best snorkeling in Maui together with the map below.

TIP: You can make a copy of this map in Google by opening it in a new tab (click on the full screen icon). Once you make a copy, you’ll be able to then access this on the Google Maps app on your phone.

Tips for Snorkeling in Maui

Before your trip, there a few things you need to know to make sure you’re prepared.

• Beach towel – Most hotels are pretty specific about not using their towels on the beach. You could use their designated beach towels but it’s always a good idea to have your own. Microfiber towels are versatile and quick to dry.
• Snorkel gear – While many resorts and tours will have free snorkel gear rental, you might as well pack your own if you plan on doing a lot of snorkeling. The full face snorkel is something that’s becoming really popular too.
• Water shoes – Coral and volcanic rock isn’t something you want to mess with.
• Sunglasses – A no-brainer here. The industry’s leading sunglasses in clarity is Maui Jim (I have the Chee Hoo ) and they’re highly recommended. They even have an HQ store in Lahaina you can visit (721 Wainee St. Lahaina, HI 96761).
• Croakies – These are sunglass retainer straps that is super helpful to make sure you always have sunglasses on you and won’t fall off.
• Reef safe sunscreen – Sun Bum is the leader here and is critical not only to protect your skin but also the reef and aquatic life. I recommend a minimum of 50 SPF.
• Beach umbrella – If you have space for this in your suitcase, this is a good investment.
• Portable beach chair – I highly recommend the Helinox super lightweight and compact chairs.
• Beach mat – Getting sand all over your beach towel sucks so use these specialized sandproof mats instead.
• Beach bag – Backpacks work but when you’re packing snorkel gear, mats, chairs, and other gear, you need a large beach bag/tote.
• Waterproof case – If you want to carry some valuables and your phone with you as you snorkel, make sure to get one of these waterproof phone cases.
• Dry bag – Another way to keep your valuables from getting wet is by using these large dry bags.
• Flip flops – A good pair of flip flops is always important for Hawaii. I’ve had my pair of Rainbows for a long time and swear by them.

Over-tourism and years of neglect has resulted in coral dying, sea turtles being injured and diseased, and coastal erosion.

When you go to Maui and the rest of Hawaii for a vacation, remember that you’re a guest of the land and as a visitor you need to respect the fragile ecosystem. Here’s how you can do your part.

• Use reef safe sunscreen – This is something we learned from our Molokini snorkel cruise . Aerosol sunscreen is the worst offender here but essentially when you enter the water, those chemicals mix with the water and they interact with all the aquatic life. Science has proven that this leads to coral bleaching and also tumors on turtles .
• Don’t leave anything behind – Keep the beaches and waters clean from garbage.
• Look but don’t touch – Especially when it comes to turtles, don’t touch them because it is straight up illegal as they are federally and state protected creatures. Beyond that, touch them causes unwanted stress and sets a bad example for others. Keep a respectful distance.
• Tread lightly – When snorkeling, it’s easy to not watch where you fins and hands are. Avoid hitting the coral.
• Don’t feed the fish – Marine life have their own diets. Feeding them bread and other human food is not a good thing.
• Leave what you find – Don’t take or pick coral, sand, or volcanic rock. This destroys the natural ecosystem no matter how small.

The best time is early in the morning because water is the clearest and you also beat the crowds of people that come in later. This means showing up to your snorkel spot before 9AM.

No, Molokini Crater isn’t a beach and isn’t attach to the island of Maui. As a volcanic caldera, 3 miles off the coast, you’ll need to get there by a boat tour like this one .

Whale season in Maui is typically between mid-January and March.

You can spot sea turtles all year round but the absolute best time is in the summer thanks to calmer waters. In the winter when it gets colder, there are larger waves which is less ideal for turtles.

The most common way of seeing dolphins is out on a boat between Lahaina and the island of Lanai. Spinner dolphins patrol this area which is why you need to do a boat cruise .

Turtle Town is far off the coast of Makena and not easy to swim to because of the distance. This is why you need to get there by boat cruise or water craft like a stand-up paddleboard .

No, it is illegal to touch green sea turtles by law. It is recommended to stay 30 feet from turtles. Fines start at $1,000 USD.

There’s so much snorkeling in Maui you can do. This gives you all of the best places you need to incorporate into your itinerary. If you have a favorite snorkeling spot in Maui and would love to see it added, make sure to drop a comment below!

What you should read next

• Best Week in Maui – Things You Have To Do
• Top 5 Hotels in Hawaii’s Southern Islands
• Conrad Maldives – The Amazing House Reef Snorkelling
• Top 12 Things You Absolutely Must Do In Iceland

Featured social image via Flickr by aftab

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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Snorkeling in Maui: 12 Best Places to Snorkel in Maui (+ Safety and Packing Tips)

last Updated: April 24, 2024 hawaii maui

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Hawaii and looking for the best places to snorkel in Maui? Today, I’ll be sharing all of my favorite spots to go snorkeling in Maui, including popular places for beginners as well as hidden gems many first-time visitors don’t know of! Plus loads of very important safety info. 

Swimming in crystal-clear waters. Tropical fish as colorful as they get. Rainbow coral along the seafloor. Hawaiian green sea turtles! Chances to spot larger animals like spinner dolphins and octopi and maybe even humpback whales. Those are just a few reasons that make snorkeling in Maui an absolute dream come true.

And I can’t get enough! 

Ever since moving to California , we’ve been to Hawaii more times than we can count. Meaning I’ve gone snorkeling in Maui oh so many times! I’m sharing all my insider tips and tricks to ensure you have the best possible Maui snorkel experience! 

Check out the snorkeling tours I recommend as well — some of Maui’s best snorkeling spots are only accessible via boat!

Without further ado, here are my absolute favorite places to snorkel in Maui, including spots perfect for first-timers as well as sites meant for seasoned underwater explorers.

But before we get into the best places to snorkel in Maui, there’s a lot of other important info I need to share with you first!

Essential Info About Maui Snorkeling 

Best time to go snorkeling in maui .

The best time of year to go snorkeling in Maui is during the summer months, from May through September. The water will be comfortably warm, the waves are minimal (although always confirm beforehand!), and there’ll be less wind. 

Not visiting in summer? Don’t fret! It’s always a good time to go snorkeling in Maui! We’ve been to Maui in all four seasons, and loved snorkeling each and every time! 

Regardless of when you visit, I always recommend snorkeling in the morning, as the waters are the calmest. And whatever you do, always snorkel in daylight hours – NEVER at dawn, dusk, or at night.

What to Pack for Snorkeling in Maui 

You honestly don’t need much to go snorkeling in Maui (just throw on a bathing suit and mask and snorkel), but come prepared with some extra essentials and you’ll be way more comfortable. 

• Mask and Snorkel : While snorkeling tours in Maui typically provide the necessary equipment, you’re always better off with your own. Planning to do some snorkeling off the shore? You’ll probably save some cash by bringing your own mask and snorkel . 
• Snorkel defog spray: You can always use your own spit to defog your mask (true story — just swish it around and then dunk your mask into the water), but there’s also snorkel spray for that! Tours will have spray for you, but worth it to get your own if you’re snorkeling off shore.  
• Rash guard : Prone to getting sunburned? A rash guard is the way to go! Make sure to buy one that’s UPF 30 or higher. Here’s a great rashguard for women (with a built in bra and bottoms) and one for men as well.
• Non-slip bathing suit: Snorkeling is not the time to wear your itsy-bitsy bikini – you want something that can withstand some waves and hauling yourself back onto a boat (with a ladder of course). Plus, the last thing you wanna worry about while swimming with all the fish is an unfortunate nip-slip! I typically wear a one piece or a top that has more coverage. Save your other bathing suits for the pool!
• Fast dry towel : 100% necessary afterwards! Especially if it’s a bit windy. 
• Underwater camera : All my underwater photography tips and gear here . I’d check out an underwater phone case too if you don’t wanna make an investment in an underwater camera or GoPro. 

• Bonine : If you’re taking a snorkeling tour in Maui and are prone to getting seasick, take some Bonine to combat the nausea on the boat. It doesn’t make you drowsy and it’s recommended to take the night beforehand and the morning of your boat tour.
• Hat/s : The sun is strong here! I recommend bringing along a hat that won’t fly off your head while hanging out on the catamaran. Fun trucker hats are great for that!
• A waterproof kindle or other e-reader for reading on the boat (I’d be worried a physical book may accidentally get wet!)
• Reusable water bottle : better for the environment and a must to stay hydrated. 
• Reef Safe sunscreen (always use when in the water, as other sunscreen is harmful to marine life): We love ThinkSport (make sure the bottles are less than 3.4 ounces if you’re bringing them in your carryon)! Don’t forget about SLP lip balm as well!
• Portable battery charger : Charge your phone on the go (even on the boat!) and never run out of a charge.
• Tote bag : Plastic bags are banned in Maui, so bring your own for everything you’ll need at the beach or your Maui snorkeling tour! I love this collapsible reusable tote bag that hardly takes up any room in your suitcase.

How to Protect Marine Life and Coral 

Snorkeling in the beautiful turquoise waters of Maui comes with a lot of responsibility. Due to Maui’s fragile ecosystem and crazy amounts of over-tourism, we need to be sure we’re doing everything we can to protect the ocean waters and all the marine life found inside. 

PLEASE keep wildlife WILD. NEVER attempt to chase/touch/pet/feed ANY wild animal. This can potentially do harm to these beloved creatures, and possibly cause unnecessary distress. 

A few other important tips:

Wear reef-safe sunscreen: Chemicals in regular sunscreens can wash off our bodies and harm coral (including coral bleaching) and other marine life (like causing tumors on turtles which is oh so sad). 

Because of this, you need to wear reef-safe sunscreen, which is made from minerals (like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) as the active ingredients instead of harmful chemicals. 

Since October 2022, you’re not even allowed to bring non-mineral sunscreens into Maui! If your sunscreen contains the chemicals oxybenzone and/or octinoxate do NOT bring those into Maui or Hawaii in general. They’re known to harm the coral reef and local fish. 

Leave those regular sunscreens at home to use when you’re not swimming in the ocean.

As noted earlier, we love ThinkSport (make sure the bottles are less than 3.4 ounces if you’re bringing them in your carryon)! Don’t forget about SLP lip balm as well!

Never touch any sea life, and never step on any coral: Touching sea turtles (honu) are actually illegal, and can even result in a hefty fine (which I 100% endorse!). 

And steer clear of stepping on coral – they’re fragile, living creatures and stepping on them or even kicking them can damage or kill them.

Leave no trace: This goes without saying, but never leave garbage on the beach, always cut up plastics and rope (which can get tangled up around animals and/or get stuck around the necks of sea turtles), and always keep wrappers secure in your bag so they don’t accidentally end up in the ocean. 

Shy away from plastic straws and other unnecessary plastic when on the island (it’ll most likely end up in the ocean eventually). If you buy a pack of drinks (whether it be POG juice, beers, etc), always make sure to cut up that silly plastic holding all the drinks together. Thank you.

Don’t take anything with you: Leave the shells, rocks, sand, and coral you find behind. I used to take home shells, but now I know better and just take photos of them instead. 

Avoid feeding the fish: Feeding fish (or any other marine animal for that matter) disrupts the delicate balance of the fragile ecosystem and changes the normal behavior of the sea life. Plus, adding food to the water changes the nutrient levels which can then in turn damage the coral reefs by increasing the amount of harmful algae.

I despise when companies do this to attract more fish for their customers — not cool at all. I highly recommend you investigate, do your due diligence, and ask questions before signing up for a snorkel tour.

Best Maui Snorkeling Tours 

While you can totally go snorkeling in Maui right off the coast, in order to swim and snorkel in the clearest waters, you’ll need to get further ashore. This means taking a boat! 

Thankfully, there’s a whole slew of Maui snorkeling tours to choose from. Here’s some recommended favorites:

Turtle Town and Molokini Snorkeling Tour: This is probably the most sought after snorkeling tour in all of Maui. Why? Because it visits two of Maui’s best snorkeling spots on the same day – the underwater paradise of Molokini and the most epic spot for sea turtles, Turtle Town. If you only have time for one snorkel tour in Maui, make it this one. 100%.

Afternoon Snorkel to Coral Gardens : Don’t have all day? Don’t fret! This snorkel tour leaves in the afternoon, meaning you can either wake up late or get in another activity beforehand. It visits either Coral Gardens or Molokini (whichever has better conditions that day), and you get to chillax on a 55-foot catamaran.

Underwater Submarine Adventure : Did someone say SUBMARINE? Yup – you don’t even need to get your hair wet to see all the underwater life. You’ll visit coral reefs, learn about Hawaii’s underwater world from a naturalist, and get up close to a replica shipwreck brimming with marine wildlife while staying warm and dry! This is still on my Hawaii bucket list , because how cool would it be to spend the morning in a SUBMARINE?!

Turtle Town Snorkel and Kayak Tour: Kayakers, this is for you! An expert guide will take you on a 2-mile kayaking adventure through Makena Bay to see green sea turtles, tropical fish, and other marine wildlife endemic to Hawaii. It’s also very common to see manta rays and dolphins, and if you’re extra lucky, a Hawaiian monk seal! 

Lahaina to Lanai Dolphin Watch and Snorkeling : Once you’ve done some snorkeling in Maui, it’s time to discover another island! Head off on a catamaran cruise to Lanai and snorkel with the amazing marine life of the reef gardens. Look out for spinner dolphins on the way – I saw tons when I did this tour!

Turtle Town Snorkel and Whale Watching Cruise : Visiting between November and April? Booking a combo whale watching cruise and turtle town snorkel is the way to go. Two epic experiences in one day! And it’s a really good value, too. Not only will you see nenue (lowfin chubs), goatfish, octopus, black durgon, and frogfish, but you’ll learn about the fascinating behavior of humpback whales and their place in Hawaii as well!

Safety When Snorkeling in Maui 

Snorkeling in Maui is a real treat – BUT you need to do your part in order to stay safe. This is the open ocean we’re talking about – there’s rip currents, strong waves, potentially harsh winds, and of course marine life! 

Before heading into the water, make sure conditions are safe – and if you aren’t sure, ASK! 

• Tides and rip currents are real : Always pay attention to posted signs and never enter the water should it not be safe. The current ocean conditions are posted for a reason (as well as any recent shark sightings)! Pay attention. Rip currents are powerful, narrow channels of fast-moving water — they can bring you far out to sea and it’ll be extremely hard to make it back to shore. 
• Know your limits: While many tours provide life jackets or flotation noodles, it’s advisable to be able to swim when snorkeling in Maui. Some snorkeling spots are better for beginners, while others are more intense and should be left for experienced swimmers/snorkelers only. Before wading into any body of water, know (or ask) about the conditions.
• Always snorkel with a buddy : This goes without saying, but never snorkel alone! In case of an accident, you always want some support with you!
• Never snorkel before sunrise or after sunset : You should only snorkel during daylight hours, for a myriad of reasons. At night, you’re more likely to encounter a shark, underwater visibility decreases, and help/assistance is limited (if you unfortunately find yourself in danger).
• Be aware of sharks : Yes, there are sharks here in Maui. They’re most commonly found further out to sea, but can congregate near the shore at dawn and dusk. Another reason to only snorkel during daylight hours!
• Snorkel close to shore/stay with your group : More accidents occur further out or when you leave your snorkel group. Guided boat trip tours know where to safely snorkel. 
• Never snorkel in murky, brown, or brackish waters : Not only will you have a much harder time seeing the wildlife, but sharks are known to be attracted to the nutrients found in these waters. Stay away! Visibility will be best in clearer waters anyways. 

Other FAQs About Snorkeling in Maui 

Why are all the fish swimming away from me/why don’t I see many fish? Fish are scared of us humans — we’re so much larger than them and kinda look like prey. Whenever you make sudden movements, you scare away all the fish! Stay calm and swim slowly – you’re bound to see more marine life. 

Mimic the flow of the ocean — you never want to panic, show stress, or flap your arms/legs in an erratic manner. Move slowly and gently, and you’ll have the best chance to see all the fish and other sea life. 

How to see sea turtles? Some are disappointed and unsuccessful when on the lookout for turtles.  It’s important to know that the turtles hide in caves or under big rocks, and sometimes just sit in the sand on the bottom. Basically, they’re not always visible at first, and you must wait patiently for them to come up for air (which they need to do since they don’t breathe underwater).  

Look all around you: below, in front, behind, etc… you never know when they’ll come up and surprise you. Feast your eyes on the seafloor too much, and you may see a shark (which may be a good or bad thing depending on your anxiety levels…)

Can you touch sea turtles? NOPE! Note that it’s ILLEGAL to touch a honu; these Hawaiian green sea turtles are federally protected and it’s harmful (and ILLEGAL) to touch, feed, or harass them. 

No one likes a fine on vacation! Just don’t do it. For the sake of the sea turtles, keep your distance as much as possible.

When can you see whales in Maui? Whales migrate south and can be seen off the coast of Maui between November and May, but peak whale watching season is January through March. You may get lucky and see a whale or two as early as October, but don’t count on it.

Marine Life You’ll See While Snorkeling in Maui

Thanks to the fact that Maui was formed by volcanic eruptions, sea life thrives around its shores. 

Snorkeling in Maui will give you the opportunity to see unique marine life that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Manta and Eagle Rays are a favorite site for visitors, and they’re not exactly afraid of gliding by snorkelers! 

Another unique species I’m sure you’re dying to see are Honus, which are Hawaiian green sea turtles endemic to Hawaii that weigh over 200 pounds! Back in the 70s, these gentle giants were extremely endangered, but thanks to conservation efforts, they’re back and thriving near the shores of Maui and other Hawaiian islands. You can easily spot them at certain places while snorkeling, but they’re also known to show up right at the beach.

Moray eels are another favorite of mine. They may look a bit scary and intimidating, but they’re actually harmless as long as they don’t feel harassed (they’re best watched from a safe distance).

As for tropical fish, it’d be impossible to list all the species you may see while snorkeling in Maui. Some interesting ones include Bigfin Squid (you’re most likely to spot them in Honolua Bay), Striped Belly Puffer Fish, and the Humuhumunukunukuāpua’a (yup, that’s the name!), which is Hawaii’s official fish.

Best Places to Snorkel in Maui

Finally — what you probably came here for! All the best Maui snorkeling spots!

1. Molokini Crater

Molokini Crater is easily the #1 snorkeling spot in Maui, and one of the most unique you’ll find on the island! It’s actually the first place I ever snorkeled in Maui, way back in 2013 before we even moved to the West Coast.

What makes it so special?! The fact that the water around the crater is so clear that spotting animals is super easy! The visiblity is spectacular of up to 150 feet – no wonder all the guidebooks urge visitors to check it out!

It’s not your typical snorkel spot – Molokini Crater is actually a teeny tiny volcanic island shaped like a crescent moon, about 3 miles off the southwest coast of Maui. How was it created?! By a volcanic eruption that happened some 230,000 years ago! Whoa!

Over 250 different species of fish endemic to the region live here, not to mention other marine life such as manta rays, whitetip reef sharks, and white spotted puffers. Morrey eels are rather common here as well, although difficult to spot since they spend their time hiding out in the reef and blend in quite nicely.

Expect to see some pink tail durgons, black triggerfish, red pencil urchins (so cool), yellow tangs, 4-spot butterflyfish, and cornetfish, as well as a kaleidoscope of coral along the ocean’s bottom. 

What’s best? Because the animals around Molokini are so used to humans, they’re not very skittish and getting close to them is very easy! But remember — for the safety of the animals and yours as well, keep your distance!

Molokini Crater can only be reached by boat, which means you’ll need to schedule at least half a day for the adventure. Once you get there, though, you’ll be guaranteed snorkeling like you never have before. Thankfully, there’s daily tours available to Molokini that also stop at a few other snorkeling spots in Maui.

When booking a Molokini Crater snorkel tour, it’s important to look at the approximate hotel pick up time. The water is at its calmest in the early morning, so book a tour that aims to get you into the water as soon as possible (with pick-ups between 6-7am). 

Come too late and the waters will be a bit choppy and you’ll be snorkeling with hundreds of other tour-goers. Not the worst thing in the world (it’ll still be pretty!), but worth the early morning wake up call for sure!

2. Turtle Town (Maluaka Beach)

You haven’t officially been snorkeling in Maui until you spot your first turtle! 

Swimming with sea turtles is such a magical experience, and something I could do every single day and still be ridiculously giddy. And Maluaka (Turtle Town) is easily the best snorkeling spot to find sea turtles in Maui. 

Made up of lava formations that were created hundreds of thousands of years ago by underwater volcanoes, Turtle Town, as its name suggests, is one of the best places to go snorkeling in Maui. Especially if you want to see Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Known as “Honus”, these turtles are only found in Hawaii. Back in the 1970s, they were incredibly endangered — but these days, they’ve made quite a comeback thanks to protective laws and conservation efforts. Seeing them swim about is a truly heartwarming experience!

Turtle Town is actually just a nickname for all the spots along the Makena or Wailea coast, due to common turtle sightings. A real place with the original name of Turtle Town? It had to be too good to be true. And it was. But I did see turtles (quite a few) — so I guess the fake name shouldn’t really matter.

It’s literally crazy how incredibly close the sea turtles came near me. In more instances than one, I had to swim away in fear that I would accidentally touch its fin or shell (a huge no-no in Hawaii).  These “fly-by”‘s left me breathless, instantly hoping to see more Honu’s in my near future. Spoiler alert – I did!

Every time I was about to get out of the water, another turtle swam right by me. I was literally the last one in the water, and my husband had to persuade me to come join everyone back on the boat. I could have stayed out there for hours watching the honu’s, anxiously awaiting the arrival of another. 

If you haven’t been swimming with turtles before, the experience will leave you breathless, I promise. Just don’t forget to breathe through the snorkel, haha.

Like Molokini, plenty of tours take visitors snorkeling at Turtle Town, including this combo Molokini and Turtle Town tour. If you’re visiting during the winter and wanna do some whale watching as well (HIGHLY recommended), there are combo tours Turtle Town and whale watching tours!

3. Ho’okipa Beach Park

This spot is for all my turtle lovers. Come at sunset — you won’t be disappointed. 

If you don’t wanna book a boat tour (or simply can’t find time on your Maui itinerary ), head over to Ho’okipa Beach Park! You’ll find an insane amount of Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles resting right here on the sands at sunset. YOU DON’T EVEN NEED TO GET WET TO SEE THEM!

Walk to the far end of the beach (towards the right past all the rocks covered in slimy green algea), and they’ll be right there! I swear we spotted at least 20 on our last visit. Look closely – at first glance they’ll look like rocks, haha. They tend to congregate here and start heading to the shore (from the water) around sunset.

As noted above, PLEASE keep your distance and don’t approach the turtles. Follow all posted signs. 

It’s illegal to touch a honu (sea turtle), and you need to stay the necessary 10 feet away from them. Take a zoom lens if you want closer photos. 

There’s also guards here at times as well. Trust me – it’s taken super seriously since so many people break the rules. Don’t be one of them. This is their land and water – protect them and respect nature. 

Fun fact: “ho’okipa” translates into “place of welcoming comfort”, and it seems turtles took the name quite seriously! These little friends have made Ho’okipa Beach Park one of the favorite hangout spots around the island, and a simple snorkeling session just off the beach will almost guarantee you’ll get to swim amid dozens of them.

While you can snorkel here depending on the tide (only at low tide), it’s far from the best place to snorkel in Maui. Why? Because there’s loads of rocks on the shore/under the water. If you do decide to snorkel here, be extremely careful – the rocks and coral aren’t in very deep water, so it can be pretty difficult to navigate water that shallow. Visiting at high tide? Stay out of the water and plan to watch the surfers and turtles instead.

My recommendation, bring a mask, hang close to shore, and simply pop your head into the water from time to time. You may get lucky and a turtle may very well swim right up to you while wading in the water. There’s also an overlook above where the turtles go to rest – this is a great place to see them afar!

Psst – Looking for more things to do around here? Stop by the cute beach town of Paia . It’s a great place to stay if you’re planning on getting an early start to the Road to Hana .

4. Black Rock at Kaanapali Beach

The snorkeling at Black Rock in Kaanapali (right in front of the Sheraton and Kaanapali Beach Hotel) is A++, so you don’t need to go super far to swim around with the fish and turtles! Mornings tend to be easier since the waves and tradewinds aren’t as high yet. 

Black Rock is located at Ka’anapali Beach, with picture perfect warm white sand and gorgeous views. This is the Maui you’re thinking of. Even though it does get quite busy, you’ll never really have trouble finding a space to snorkel because it’s a pretty big place.

Ka’anapali is a pretty popular beach in Maui, but Black Rock itself is located at the very end of the beach on the north hand side. In Hawaiian, the name of Black Rock is “Pu’u Keka’a”, which translates into “rolling hill”, and it’s considered a historical area and a sacred spot because it’s believed that souls leap into eternity from the top of the hill.

Snorkeling-wise, Black Rock is an excellent spot to find plenty of different fish and a bit of coral on the rock wall. As a warning, currents can get strong here at certain times of the day, so make sure the water is calm before you go in.

Note that the beach can be somewhat crowded and you’ll be sharing the waters with lots of other beach goers. Because of this, the water can appear a bit dark and dirty (from everyone kicking the sand on the ocean floor below). I always attempt to stray away from people, but never too far as I feel safer when others are around. 

5. Napili Bay

Even though it’s quite popular and does tend to get packed during the high season, Napili Bay is another wonderful place to go snorkeling in Maui if you want to stay on the island rather than take a tour.

Something I love about Napili?! The fact that there’s coral and rocks right under the surface super close to the shore! AND the water is very clear, so you can usually see plenty of fish and other underwater creatures even on the shoreline, especially on the left side of it. The water at Napili is also extra calm, so it is one of the best places to snorkel in Maui for kids and beginners.

Past — don’t leave Napili without having some lunch at the Gazebo Restaurant. Order the white chocolate macadamia nut pancakes, and a large fried rice – two things they’re known for. The portions are huge so I recommend sharing! And make sure to eat after snorkeling — no one likes swimming on a full stomach!

6. Kapalua Bay Beach

Ohh — Kapalua Bay! One of our favorite places to snorkel in Maui! First off, it’s perfect for beginners, and secondly, doesn’t require much effort, haha. Since the crescent-shaped bay is sheltered, snorkeling at Kapalua Bay on the north west side of Maui is easy and calm – there’s hardly any waves!

Many people visit Kapalua Beach in order to sunbathe on its white sandy beaches, but it’s also a wonderful place for a quick snorkeling session. The water is very calm and clear, which makes spotting animals right by the shore a super easy task. You’ll get to see coral, colorful fish, and even a few sea turtles gliding by!

There’s actually two snorkeling spots over here at Kapalua Bay – one on the left side of the beach (for more advanced snorkelers), and one on the right hand side (much easier without many rocks). If you’re a confident swimmer, be on the lookout for octopus, crabs, and trumpet fish towards the left hand side.

Regardless of which side you pick, the further you swim out from shore the more sea life and coral you’ll find. But remember – don’t go too far; trade winds may bring you out further than you’d like so always be aware of where you are in the water. 

Local Tip: Don’t waste your time snorkeling in the middle of the bay – it’s mostly sand over here so not many fish hang out (although it’s a great place to practice your freediving skills).

This beach was actually ranked as the best beach in America back in the 90s, and even though the title now belongs to a different one, it’s still absolutely gorgeous. Backed by lucious green lawns and swaying palm trees, we head over everytime we visit Maui. We can’t get enough!

7. Slaughterhouse Beach (Mokuleia Bay)

Located close to Napili, Slaughterhouse Beach (also known as Mokuleia Bay) is another wonderful place to go snorkeling in Maui. Perfect if you’re looking for a bit more solitude and consider yourself a good swimmer and seasoned snorkeler (I wouldn’t recommend it for first-timers, though!)

And no, I have no idea why this spot is called Slaughterhouse Beach, haha.

One of the main reasons Slaughterhouse Beach remains so quiet – you need to walk down a few flights of asphalt steps once you park (in the tiny lot or on the side of the road). Meaning you’ll need to eventually climb back up, ultimately deterring some from visiting! 

Hey, I get it – that’s not everyone’s idea of fun on an otherwise relaxing vacation! If you’re able and have the energy, I highly encourage you to make the short trek down. Because it’s one of the best places to snorkel in Maui!

This dramatic cliff-framed beach is made up of caves, tunnels, and drop offs, which provides a very interesting underwater experience. 

There are tons of creatures swimming in the bay, so sightings are guaranteed, especially tons of silver fish, sea turtles, zebra moray eels, parrot fish, and if you’re lucky, possibly even white tip reef sharks! Don’t fret – I willingly swam with white tip reef sharks in Bora Bora and they’re perfectly safe if you don’t threaten them.

Psst – super experienced swimmers/snorkelers can even swim around the rocky point of Slaughterhouse Beach and snorkel right into Honolua Bay (coming up next on this list of where to go snorkeling in Maui).

I wouldn’t recommend snorkeling here if it’s your first time as swells can get rough sometimes. If you’re a beginner and really want to snorkel here, make sure to stick to the rocky walls near the shore. Not recommended in winter as the swells can get too large and become unsafe.

8. Honolua Bay

Honolua Bay is a Marine Life Conservation District and fishing is forbidden here, so it’s essentially a paradise filled with a huge diversity of marine life. The water stays super calm (and is sheltered from the wind) due to the high rocky cliffs which surround the bay on both sides.

To reach the bay, you’ll need to head out on a short hike through the forest, which is a beautiful adventure in and of itself! There are two trails available, both of which are pretty flat and equally stunning (you can wear flip flops for the hike). There’s no facilities at the beach, so make sure to bring along anything you may need for the adventure. I don’t recommend bringing beach chairs as there won’t be many places to put them, especially at high tide!

The bay is quite big and the “beach”, which isn’t really a beach at all, is completely made up of rocks and boulders. You’ll be able to see marine life just about anywhere, but the best spots require swimming away from the shore (yes! You can get here independently, but if you’re not a super strong swimmer, you can also book a snorkeling tour to Honolua Bay).

Head over the rocks and into the water slowly – they can be slippery! Local Tip: you’ll find most of the fish on the right side of the bay since that’s where most of the coral is!

Don’t leave the area without seeing the bay from above! The colors of the water are even more stunning and vibrant from a higher vantage point. And thankfully, the views are super easy to find. There’s a bunch of designated viewpoints right off the road — can’t miss them! I make my husband take pictures here every time we visit Maui, haha. It’s one of my favorite spots on the island!

9. Kahekili Beach Park (Airport Beach)

Another of the best spots to snorkel in Maui is Kahekili Beach Park, commonly referred to as “Airport Beach”. Why? Because in the 1960’s and early 1970’s, this spot served as West Maui’s only airport!

There are plenty of amenities and facilities all over the beach, plus easy parking, which also means you don’t need to plan a lot or bring many things along.

What makes Airport Beach a wonderful snorkeling spot in Maui is the fact that there’s a reef right by the coastline, so you don’t need to swim very far in order to spot plenty of marine life. Among the creatures you may get to see are colorful fish, eels, and maybe even a few green sea turtles! Plan to head into the water right in front of the north towers of the Westin Ocean Resort Villas.

Bring a beach chair and umbrella – with all the amenities here you can easily spend all day! There’s public restrooms, fresh water showers, picnic tables, and even grills for public use.

As a bonus, if you happen to be visiting Maui during the winter months (November to March), make sure to keep your eyes out for migrating whales as sightings are very common at this time of the year.

Exhausted your snorkeling in Maui itself? Head on over to Lanai, a lesser-known island located just a short boat ride away! It makes for a great day trip that will also give you the chance to explore a new Hawaiian island – didn’t think you’d be going to another island during your 5 days in Maui , now did you?!

Hulopoʻe Bay is usually the best spot in Lanai for a snorkeling session. The water here is pretty calm and perfect for swimming, not to mention it’s located inside a protected marine preserve and is home to lots of tropical fish, turtles, eels, and more.

On my last trip to Maui, I opted for a guided trip to Lanai and had the time of my life. Not only did they bring us to a spectacular snorkeling spot, but we saw so many spinner dolphins along the way. Such a magical experience — I almost cried!

Getting to Lanai from Maui only takes about 50 minutes on the ferry if you want to do things independently (there are five daily round trips available). However, I recommend booking a tour instead, especially if you’re short on time and don’t wanna rent a car on Lanai for the day. 

This guided catamaran tour to Lanai takes you to Lanai on a decked-out catamaran and also gives you access to some hidden spots on the island that aren’t quite as popular among visitors! Plus dolphins!

11. Coral Gardens

Home to the largest reef in Maui at over 100 acres, Coral Gardens is a wonderful spot to snorkel in Maui and even all of Hawaii! A true kaleidoscope of coral on the ocean floor.

Here, you’ll find a plethora of giant coral everywhere you look, some of which are as old as 500 years! The area was created by lava flows in the ocean some half a million years ago, and because of its unique geology, marine life absolutely thrives here.

You’ll spot thousands of different fish species that come in all colors of the rainbow as well as other creatures such as Hawaiian green sea turtles, eels, and octopi. Expect to see Hawaiian tropical fish including angelfish, butterflyfish, triggerfish, and giant parrotfish.

Because Coral Gardens is so big, it caters to beginners as well as seasoned snorkelers in the different areas. The best way to make the most out of your time here is by booking a tour to Coral Gardens , as guides will be able to help you find the best spots to see animals! Most tours leave from the Lahaina and Maalaea Harbors.

So there ya have it – a whole slew of the best spots to go snorkeling in Maui! What underwater marine life are you most excited to see? 

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So glad our family did this! We swam along with schools of beautiful fish and the majestic turtles. The turtles were absolutely incredible to watch in their natural habitat!! The gear was quality and the crew totally made the experience! Relaxing and floating was so amazingly peaceful. One of the lesser expensive excursions, and ended up being one of the best highlights for our family of 4, with two teens!

We have been in Maui for 2 weeks, and this was by far my favorite excursion, and the cheapest too! The crew was so awesome! I felt safe because they come in water with you. We saw so many turtles and sharks (reef sharks but I’d say 4ft long).The drinks were yummy (mai tai)! After snorkeling, we jumped off the boat and we did the slide as well. My kids are 12 & 17….they had a great time. I HIGHLY recommend this trip!

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• Molokini Crater Snorkeling (17)
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Sea Maui Kaanapali Deluxe Snorkel Cruise with Meals & Open Bar

For sure would do this again!

Lots of fun, 4 - 5 hour(s), available daily, pick-up not available, what to expect.

• Honolua Bay - The perfect summer time snorkel spot. This north facing bay is a protected marine sanctuary teeming with life. In the winter, this bay is one of the most famous surf spots Maui and is mostly un-snorkel-able during this time.
• Cliff House - Also known as Namalu Bay , this snorkel location full of amazing marine life. Similar to Honolua Bay, this is primarily a summertime snorkel spot due to winter time surf.
• Oluwalu - Also known as Turtle Reef for a very obvious reason. This spot is accessible from shore, but worth noting you may have to swim out really far (200-400 yards) to get to the clear water. The best way to snorkel this reef is from a boat. Most snorkelers from shore never make it out far enough to reach the clear waters this site is famous for.
• Mala Wharf - This reef was a functioning pier that was destroyed by Hurricane Iniki in 1992. Now, the pilings from the old pier are scattered about the sea bed and have created a vibrant and healthy artificial reef system.

Morning Premium West Maui Sail: Snorkel, Breakfast, Lunch & Open Bar

Price per Adult :

Afternoon West Maui Sail: 1 Snorkel Stop & Appetizers [May- Dec]

Check-in at Sea Maui kiosk at Whaler's Village Kaanapali Beach

You'll be offered breakfast and coffee prepared by Chef Joey, as the captain set off in search of some of the best West Maui's snorkel sites to visit that day based upon current water conditions. Along the way, keep your eyes open for Hawaiian spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins.

Some popular Maui snorkeling sites include Honolua Bay, Cliff House, Oluwalu, Mala Wharf, and more. *Please note: No guarantee a specific site as the weather and water conditions change daily.

Once back on board, you will enjoy a buffet lunch prepared by Chef Joey with premium beers, handcrafted cocktails and other soft drinks and juices as the catamaran set sail back to Ka’anapali Beach.

Transportation add-ons

Pick-up/check-in time & location.

Drop-off/Check-out Time & Location

• Located between Leilani's and Hula Grill along the beach walk at Whaler's Village Shopping Center.

Parking information

• - Sea Maui do validate parking for The Whaler’s Village parking structure for up to 4 hours. Please bring your ticket with you so they can validate upon check in. Additional time in the lot runs at $3 per half hour. - Please note there will be a charge to exit the parking lot if you are scheduled on one of the 4.5 hours snorkel trips. - Sea Maui is not responsible for any additional parking fees that may be incurred.

Important activity information

Restrictions.

• Participants must be able to walk up a small flight of stairs through ankle deep water.
• Children of all ages can participate in this activity.

Other requirements

• Participants are required to sign a liability waiver at the time of check-in.
• Minors are required to have a parent or guardian sign their liability waiver.

Booking requirements (# of participants, vehicles, hours, etc.)

• You can book a maximum of 48.

Required items to bring & attire

• Guests who will be consuming alcohol will be required to present a valid, government-issued photo ID.

Additional notes

• Throughout your trip, a photographer will take a number of HD photos. These photos are then loaded onto an 8-gigabyte waterproof USB wristband that you can take home with you for an additional fee of $25.(*Price subject to change without notice.)
• The lunch menu changes daily and is freshly prepared by Chef Joey. Every effort is made to create gluten and allergen free menu items, and specific restrictions should be notated at the time of booking.
• The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
• The menu is subject to change without notice.
• The activity provider does not assume any responsibility for your valuables and/or personal belongings.
• This activity may be changed or canceled for your safety, medical issues or comfort.
• All participants who go in the water must wear a flotation device.

Snorkel at one of West Maui’s most popular snorkeling locations (depending on conditions). Here you’ll likely be up close and personal with the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, colorful tropical fish, and beautiful coral reef. Appetizers and an open bar are included!

• Parking information - Sea Maui do validate parking for The Whaler’s Village parking structure for up to 4 hours. Please bring your ticket with you so they can validate upon check in. Additional time in the lot runs at $3 per half hour. - Please note there will be a charge to exit the parking lot if you are scheduled on one of the 4.5 hours snorkel trips. - Sea Maui is not responsible for any additional parking fees that may be incurred.

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Traveler's photos.

Overall rating

This was a fantastic outing. A beautiful day for a fun cruise. I had a blast snorkeling. The crew was friendly and extremely knowledgeable. The food was very good. Thank you.

The cruise staff was excellent and the snorkeling was great.

Amazing experience

The crew were great & I would highly recommend to others

Activity Provider Sea Maui

Activity provider, payment / cancellation policy.

• Credit card payment

• Any cancellations made after 15:00 local time, 2 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.
• Any changes made after 15:00 local time, 2 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/ time, package, the number of participants, etc.

Payment Methods

Cancellation Policy

Change policy, is parking available.

Validated parking is available for 4 hours at Whaler's Village. If your tour lasts longer than 3-4 hours, you will need to pay an additional $3 per half hour. Free parking is also available at the beach on a first-come, first-served basis.

Please visit VELTRA Support page to send an inquiry about this activity.

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36 Hours on Maui

By Shannon Wianecki April 25, 2024

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By Shannon Wianecki Photographs by Michelle Mishina Kunz

Shannon Wianecki grew up in Hawaii and writes about the islands regularly.

Maui is the Goldilocks island: It is neither too big nor too small, and for its three million annual visitors, its perfect year-round temperature, rainbow-splashed volcanic summits and sugary beaches are just right. But last August, Maui’s equilibrium met disaster. Catastrophic wildfires reduced the historic town of Lahaina to ash, claiming more than 100 lives . Conflicting messages urged visitors to stay away and let the island heal, but also to come and help sustain the economy. Eight months later, the message is more unified that Maui is ready to greet tourists again. Housing remains a critical need for displaced residents. Lahaina will take years to rebuild. But Maui’s inherent beauty and hospitality remain as vibrant as ever. It’s a great time to explore Central and South Maui, where new cocktail bars, outrigger canoe tours and Indigenous art exhibits reveal the community’s creativity and resilience.

Recommendations

• The 10,000-foot summit of Haleakalā National Park (pronounced with an emphasis on “la”) has a view of the rising sun, volcanic vistas and some of the planet’s rarest plants and birds.
• The Hale Hō‘ike‘ike museum showcases Hawaiian artwork, carved deities and a redwood plank surfboard owned by the legendary swimmer and surfer Duke Kahanamoku.
• Balai Pata is a new restaurant that celebrates Filipino flavors with savory soups, desserts big enough for two and monthly karaoke nights.
• The Wailea Beach Path meanders along South Maui’s photogenic coast between posh resorts and the deep blue Pacific.
• The hiking trails at ‘Īao Valley State Monument (pronounced EE-ow) penetrate the lush West Maui Mountains, winding past waterfalls and taro patches.
• Enormous murals by Small Town Big Art , a public art project, in colorful and historic Wailuku town, are worth taking a stroll to see, and they’re navigable by an online map.
• Blue Water Rafting ’s exhilarating tours of the Kanaio Coast explore hidden coves, sea caves and charismatic marine life.
• Ho‘okipa Beach Park , one of the world’s top surf spots, is also a great place to spy on napping sea turtles.
• Oao Sushi Bar & Grill offers beautifully prepared Japanese fare, such as inventive sushi rolls and purple-yam pot de crème, in a Wailea shopping center.
• Tikehau Lounge serves seasonal craft cocktails made with local spirits and garnished with tiny katana swords and surfboards.
• Kaohu Store is a mom-and-pop grocery that produces the island’s best poke, raw fish mixed with traditional seasonings such as ground kukui nuts and seaweed.
• Tails Up Maui , a partnership between a local chef and a fisherman, serves excellent fish sandwiches and chicken plates.
• Wailuku Coffee Co. is the place to stop for Maui-grown coffee or espresso while exploring Wailuku.
• Esters Fair Prospect , a charming tropical bar on Wailuku’s Main Street, serves daiquiris made with a choice of three dozen rums and appetizers featuring fresh marlin.
• Mama’s Fish House , a celebrated restaurant on a secluded lagoon, lists the names of the fishermen who caught the snapper and octopus on its menu.
• On Saturday mornings, the Upcountry Farmers Market is a miniature street fair with live music and vendors offering a bounty of Maui-grown produce and prepared foods.
• ‘Oko‘a Farm Store sells a cornucopia of organic tropical fruits and vegetables in fresh, dried and powdered form.
• T. Komoda Store and Bakery , which has served the Maui community for more than a century, sells out of its cream puffs and butter rolls daily.
• Sabado Art Gallery is where the local artist Philip Sabado paints, teaches workshops and sells his color-saturated impressions of Maui landscapes and hula dancers.
• Native Intelligence offers a wealth of Hawaiian art and fashion: Locals come here for Aloha shirts and sarongs, fine jewelry and fresh flower leis.
• Four Seasons Resort Maui sets the standard for service with poolside spritzes, immaculate housekeeping and a terrific complimentary kids’ camp. Guests can book spa treatments in oceanfront huts and outrigger canoe excursions that launch from the resort’s adjoining beach. Rooms start at $1,095 a night.
• Hotel Wailea is an adults-only boutique hotel on a hill overlooking South Maui. While not directly on the beach, it’s only a short shuttle ride away. Elegant suites are spacious (750 square feet with kitchenettes) and the Birdcage lounge is a prime spot for toasting the sunset. Rooms start at $799.
• Maui Kamaole is a condo complex across the street from Kama‘ole Beach Park III, between Wailea and Kihei on Maui’s south shore. One- and two-bedroom units feature full kitchens, laundry facilities and lush landscaping. Rooms start at $500.
• Since the recent fire intensified the housing shortage, visitors should avoid short-term rentals in residential areas. Instead, book hotels that offer in-room kitchens, such as Fairmont Kea Lani or Mana Kai Maui .
• The best way to explore the island is by car . The major rental companies each have kiosks at Kahului Airport. Taxis and ride-hailing services are available, but long distances between destinations make this an expensive option. Maui’s public transit is limited. The Maui Bus operates 12 routes, including two that stop at the airport. One-way fares cost $2; day passes are $4.

Wailea Beach Path

The Wailea Beach Path , which meanders along the island’s southern coast, reflects Maui’s almost contradictory personas: On one side, opulent resorts flaunt swim-up bars and nightly torch-lighting ceremonies. A subtler drama unfolds on the opposite side, where native flora like honey-scented naio bushes, spiky hala trees and hibiscus blossoms flourish along the rocky shoreline. Sit and listen to the sea rush through the lava rocks as the sun drops between three islands: Lanai, Kahoolawe and tiny Molokini. In the 1970s, nine Native Hawaiians occupied Kahoolawe in defiance of the U.S. military, which had been using the island as a bombing range for decades. Their daring protest sparked what is now known as the Hawaiian Renaissance — a revival of Indigenous culture that continues today.

Head to Oao Sushi Bar & Grill in the Wailea area for beautifully prepared Japanese fare. The owner and head chef, J.R. Oao, sharpened his knife at Maui’s best sushi bars (including a stint at Nobu Lana‘i) before opening his first brick-and-mortar restaurant last year (he also has a food truck in Kihei, a few miles north). His signature rolls are balanced and inventive: Try the baked California roll ($22), served hot and loaded with shrimp and scallops. Juicy seared lamb chops rest on a smear of umami-rich red miso ($42). Even the salads impress — bright cilantro vinaigrette with a hint of horseradish enlivens a simple mix of Maui-grown greens, roasted corn and goat cheese ($16). For dessert, the ube pot de crème ($14), made from purple yam, is luscious, light and almost cartoonishly bright.

The name of Tikehau , a new lounge in Wailea, means “peaceful landing.” The bar, which opened in November and is quietly raising the standard for craft cocktails statewide, was true to its name for Mari Howe, its manager, and other staff who came to work here after losing jobs or homes to the Lahaina fire. Everything is thoughtfully selected, from the gold-leaf wallpaper to the crystal stemware. Garnishes are coveted souvenirs; a tiny surfboard floats atop the Thousand Peaks ($19) — a lagoon-blue Paloma topped with jasmine-tea “sea foam.” The Hawaiian Samurai ($50), a top-shelf-whiskey libation, comes with a miniature katana sword. Ms. Howe’s seasonal menu incorporates local spirits and mixers: fresh pineapple juice, Kō Hana rum and okolehao, a moonshine made from Hawaiian ti plants. Upscale snacks include poisson cru, a raw-fish dish ($25), and smoked taro hummus ($15).

Explore the rugged Kanaio Coast’s hidden coves and sea caves with a rafting tour.

This morning mission requires preparation. First, book a sunrise reservation at Haleakalā National Park well in advance ($1 permit, $30 park entrance). Then pack really warm clothes. In the darkness, drive slowly up the 10,000-foot volcano; fog often obscures cattle and native geese loitering in hairpin turns. Your efforts will be rewarded at the peak — first by the velvet sky awash with stars, then by the sun’s rays spilling across the fire-forged mountain. Notice how the silverswords (hedgehog-like plants that grow only here) sparkle in the golden light. As you descend, stop at Hosmer Grove , where a short hike leads to a forest full of Hawaiian honeycreepers , birds that are among some of the planet’s rarest.

Midway down Haleakalā, stop at the Upcountry Farmers Market . Every Saturday morning, the Kulamalu Town Center parking lot turns into a miniature street fair with live music and vendors offering a dizzying array of Maui-grown produce and prepared foods. You’ll find things to eat immediately — fresh coconut, vegan sweet-potato cheesecake and Venezuelan arepas — as well as things to stash in your suitcase, like passion-fruit butter and macadamia nuts. Don’t miss the ‘Oko‘a Farm Store , which migrated from the market into an adjacent storefront. The store’s 46-acre farm supplies a cornucopia of tropical fruits and vegetables; its shelves teem with jars of pickled, powdered, and freeze-dried treats and tonics.

Baldwin Avenue

Take the scenic drive back to sea level through historic Makawao and Paia towns. Bordered by a rodeo arena and a polo field , Makawao is the charming headquarters of the paniolo, Hawaiian cowboys who continue to rope and ride across the island’s lush ranchlands. On the corner of Makawao and Baldwin Avenues you’ll see T. Komoda Store and Bakery ; this beloved family-run business, which has served the community since 1916, sells out of its cream puffs and butter rolls daily. Follow Baldwin past the defunct sugar mill to Paia. Once a busy sugar plantation hub surrounded by green cane fields, it’s now home to surfers and artists. As you pass Baldwin Beach, admire the view of the rain-carved West Maui Mountains. The morning light often reveals the hidden interior of ‘Īao Valley, your next destination.

Wailuku River

Head to Kaohu Store in Wailuku for lunch to go. This mom-and-pop grocery offers the island’s best poke — raw fish mixed with traditional seasonings such as ground kukui nuts and seaweed (from $18 a pound). Add two scoops of rice and crunchy fern salad for a truly local meal. If you prefer a cooked lunch, visit Tails Up Maui for a classy fish sandwich ($19) or mochiko (rice flour) fried chicken ($17). Take your picnic to Kepaniwai Park , where model houses commemorate the diverse cultures of Hawaii’s sugar plantation era, and dip your feet into the Wailuku River. Continue to ‘ Īao Valley State Monument (out-of-state visitors need reservations; $5 entrance fee, $10 parking). Paved walkways wind through a traditional lo‘i kalo (taro patch), past multiple waterfalls and up to a stunning lookout.

Peruse the art and artifacts at Hale Hō‘ike‘ike , a captivating repository of Hawaiian culture in the former home of the missionary-artist Edward Bailey. Exhibits showcase Hawaiian feather work and quilts, carved deities, and paintings depicting 19th-century Maui. Imagine trying to paddle the legendary swimmer and surfer Duke Kahanamoku’s redwood plank surfboard into the waves (entry, $10). From there, stroll through Wailuku, Maui’s somewhat sleepy seat of local government. Narrow side streets yield many treasures: See enormous street murals (use the online map by Small Town Big Art , a public art project), admire the color-saturated paintings at Sabado Art Gallery and find refreshment at Wailuku Coffee Co. or Esters Fair Prospect , a cocktail bar. After shopping for Hawaiian books and clothing at Native Intelligence , buy yourself a fragrant flower lei to wear for the duration of your trip.

At Balai Pata , a new Filipino restaurant in Kahului, a celebration of the flavors that the chef and owner Joey Macadangdang grew up with is a welcome addition to Maui’s restaurant scene. Plump Kauai prawns sauteed in garlicky fish sauce ($17) set the stage for savory sinigang ($30) — tamarind broth loaded with long beans, okra and fish. For dessert, two can share the halo-halo ($18) — crushed ice topped with avocado, ube ice cream, coconut cream and fruit jellies, served in a coconut shell. The décor reflects a bright, homespun aesthetic, and once a month, local families fill the restaurant for late-night happy hour and karaoke battles — check Instagram for dates.

Jumping into a pool in Kepaniwai Park.

Blue Water Rafting

A trip to Maui isn’t complete without ducking underwater to spy on clouds of striped manini fish, eagle rays and turtles. While most snorkel tours start at Mā‘alaea Harbor, Blue Water Rafting boards at the Kihei boat ramp — offering easier access and one of the only tours of Kanaio Coast’s hidden coves and sea caves ($179, four hours). Climb into the rigid-hulled raft beside two dozen other passengers (fewer than the big tour boats) and watch for dolphins. In winter, close encounters with whales are common. As you peer into the pristine bay formed by Maui’s youngest lava flow, imagine the Polynesian wayfinders sailing here centuries ago, followed by the French explorer La Pérouse in 1786. The ride is exhilarating but bumpy.

Don’t be shy: Wear your flower lei to lunch at Mama’s Fish House . Old-style hospitality reigns at this celebrated restaurant on a sheltered lagoon. Servers greet you in vintage Aloha wear and offer complimentary bowls of poi (pounded taro — a staple of the traditional Hawaiian diet). The menu is pricey but worthy; long before it was fashionable, Mama’s listed who caught each fish and where. A recent menu featured sea bass hooked by Ivan Ventura in Hana ($68). If you ordered only dessert, you’d still leave happy; the Polynesian Black Pearl ($24) is an edible version of “The Birth of Venus”: chocolate mousse and passion fruit ensconced in a cookie seashell. Tables can book up a year out. After lunch, drive two minutes east to Ho‘okipa Beach Park , where surfers carve waves and sea turtles bask on the sand.

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Rise & Shine: 10 Perfect Spots To Watch The Maui Sunrise

T here are plenty of reasons why Maui remains a popular tropical destination for vacation-seeking travelers. The Valley Isle has some of the best beaches in the US and incredible views of natural landscapes, from the breathtaking terrains of Haleakala to the show-stopping attractions on the Road to Hana.

Maui's sunrises (and sunsets) are also pretty epic, with the island offering plenty of viewpoints to witness this beautifully simple phenomenon. Travelers can start their day off early on the island, visiting some of Maui's best beaches and landmarks to catch the tropical sunrise. Out of them all, these are some of the most beautiful places to watch the sunrise in Maui.

Related: Lush Farms And Scenic Overlooks: Here's What To Experience On This Road To Hana Sightseeing Tour In Maui

Kamaole Beach Park

Travelers don't always need to find a "hidden gem" to witness something beautiful like Maui's sunrise! They can easily watch the island's sunrise at the Kamaole Beach Park, which consists of three famous beaches in Kihei.

Sitting along South Kihei Road, the Kamaole Beach Park is an accessible location. It offers visitors a pretty sight of the landscape as it slowly becomes illuminated by the rising sun, earning it a rightful place among the most beautiful sunrise spots in Maui.

• Address: South Kihei Road (the turn-off is found between mile 7 and 9)

Makena Cove

Makena Cove is also known as Secret Cove or Secret Beach . Despite its nickname, this beach is not so much a "secret." In fact, this beach is considered one of the best beaches in Maui for watching the sunset. But travelers can also catch the sunrise at Makena Cove!

They may be able to snap some great snapshots of the sun rising over the lava bed rocks, swaying palm trees, and crashing ocean waves.

• Address: 6468 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753

Koki Beach Park

The dark red sands of Koki Beach lure countless tourists traveling along the Hana Highway. During the day, tourists trickle in and out of this beach to enjoy sunbathing and spectating surfers riding the waves. In the early morning, travelers keen on getting a pretty view of the Maui sunrise may find the view at Koki Beach magical.

Here, visitors can witness the sunrise behind the island of 'Alau, which overlooks the beach's shore.

• Location: 175 Haneoo Rd, Hana, HI 96713

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Waihe'e Coastal Dunes and Wetlands Refuge

Located in Central Maui, the Waihe'e Coastal Dunes and Wetlands Refuge features 277 acres of land . This refuge houses an abundance of wildlife, including several endangered species. It's also culturally significant to the Hawaiians, as it was a former site of two ancient villages, several heiaus, and an inland pond.

This refuge makes for a nature-filled excursion during the day, which starts off with watching the Maui sunrise! The refuge's shoreline faces east, ideal for watching the sunrise. Specifically, visitors can head to the Kalae'ili'ili viewpoint to witness the sun rising over the coast.

• Location: Halewaiu Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793

Hana Bay Beach Park

Travelers can catch a quiet and quaint sunrise in Hana at the Hana Bay Beach Park. Stand at the pier or walk along the small shore to witness the sun rising over the beach's black sand and the surrounding foliage.

Even during a "stormy morning," the Hana Bay Beach Park still offers a pretty sunrise view, especially with the purple skies dancing above the shore overlooking Hana Bay. This makes it one of the top spots to watch the sunrise in Maui no matter the weather.

• Location: 150 Keawa Pl, Hana, HI 96713

Sunrise Whale Watching Tour In Maui

There are dozens of beaches and vistas to admire the sunrise in Maui for a peaceful morning. Alternatively, for something more interactive, travelers can enjoy the sunrise while watching Maui's humpback whales in action! Keen travelers can spot these majestic mammals in their natural habitat as the calm morning waters illuminate under the gaze of the morning sun.

Tourists thinking about doing some whale watching and catching the Maui sunrise can tick off both these activities with this excursion. After all, the early mornings are one of the best times to go whale watching in Maui !

• Location: Tour departures depend on the operator, though many leave from Lahaina Harbor .

Companies like Ultimate Whalewatch & Snorkel or Pacwhale Eco-Adventures offer Maui whale-watching excursions at sunrise, with daily departures from Lahaina Harbor or Ma'alaea Harbor (for the latter).

RELATED: 10 Towns In Hawaii That Make Summer Vacation Worth It

Snorkeling In Maui At Sunrise

At 6:00 AM, start the day bright at early with Kai Kanani's Sunrise Deluxe Snorkel excursion. Fall in love with the Maui sunrise as it floats over Haleakala and Big Island. Afterward, the tour will proceed with snorkeling in Molokini Crater (minus the crowds since Kai Kanani's boat is usually the first snorkel boat in the crater).

Then, depending on the weather, visitors can look forward to snorkeling with Hawaiian green sea turtles in Maui's Turtle Town (one of the best places to see turtles in Maui ) before heading back to their starting destination (Malauka Beach) before 10:00 AM.

• Location: Departures from Malauka Beach in Makena

The tour also includes beverages and snacks aboard the boat.

Wai'anapanapa State Park

Many Maui travel guides and tips on driving the Road to Hana usually recommend a stop at Wai'anapanapa State Park, with good reason. Its black sand beaches are vivid and eye-popping, complimenting the rocky shore and stirring blue-green waters.

This is one of the many must-see attractions and landmarks along the Hana Highway , which means it also experiences plenty of visitors during the day but is quieter at sunrise.

In the early morning, travelers can enjoy a quiet morning at Wai'anapanapa State Park as the sun rises over the park's black sands and craggy coast. Before the rush of visitors comes to admire the state park and its black sands for the day, travelers can watch the sunrise in peace.

Also, visitors can save the hassle of driving for hours along the Hana Highway and stay in Hana overnight to enjoy the early morning at the Wai'anapanapa State Park.

• Location: Hana, HI 96713

Please be aware that the Wai'anapanapa State Park opens daily at 7:00 AM. Reservations for parking and entry are also required for this state park. Camping is also available at Wai'anapanapa State Park for campsites or cabin rentals for additional charges. Consult Hawaii's Departmental of Land and Natural Resources Division of State Parks for more information.

RELATED: Secret & Scenic: 10 Of The Most Unique Hikes You Can Find In Hawaii

Oneloa Beach (Or Ironwood Beach)

Oneloa Beach (also known as Ironwood Beach) is tucked away in the Kapalua resort area among vacation properties and residences. It doesn't get as much foot traffic as other beaches around Maui, so it's a perfect setting to watch the Maui sunrise.

After catching the sunrise, take a peaceful stroll on the Kapalua Coastal Trail between D.T. Fleming Beach and Kapalua Bay Beach.

Oneloa Beach may not have a dramatic landscape compared to other Maui beaches, but its quiet, uncrowded nature makes it one of the most peaceful among the top places to watch the sunrise in Maui.

• Location: Near Kapalua, West Maui, west of the Makaluapuna Point

Oneloa Beach is located along Highway 30 (or the Honoapiilani Highway) towards Kapalua Resort Office Road, near Mile Marker 30.1. Also, travelers who decide to stay at Oneloa Beach for the day should know that there aren't many on-site amenities except for a shower.

Mount Haleakala Summit

Seeing the sunrise at Haleakala National Park is a definite must for Maui tourists. Watching the sunrise from this mind-blowing, epic viewpoint is the quintessential experience for any traveler visiting Maui. Travelers will feel like they're on top of the world here, watching the sun rise from over 10,023 feet over sea level . No wonder Haleakala means "house of the sun!"

Consider the two "rules" when visiting Haleakala: d ress warm and arrive early .

• Location: Haleakala National Park (which travelers can enjoy a scenic drive to) , near Kula

The summit can get chilly (especially in the wee hours), so be sure to keep warm and dress appropriately , which can include a warm sweater, a hat, and long pants. Secondly, watching the sunrise at Haleakala remains one of the top attractions in Maui, attracting a huge crowd to the summit. Arrive early to beat the crowds and get a good viewing spot!

In addition, to see the sunrise (or sunset) at the national park, travelers must book a reservation for any vehicles arriving between 3:00 AM to 7:00 AM . The reservation is a ticket that is charged per vehicle.

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Review: Club Lounge At Hyatt Regency Maui

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The Regency Club Lounge at the Hyatt Regency Maui is on the lobby level of this hotel, and it benefits from a large outdoor terrace with ocean and garden views. The terrace of this lounge is nothing less than idyllic, making this one of the best club lounges on Maui and one of the best club lounges in all the Hawaii Islands .

Hyatt club lounges are available for free to World of Hyatt members with the highest tier of elite status, the Globalists. Lower tier members can sometimes gain access via one-off certificates. If you are not a Globalist and don’t have any of these certificates, you can access Hyatt Club Lounges by booking a Club Room.

The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa is one of the best Hyatt hotels in Hawaii and is situated on the stunning northwest coast of Maui, Hawaii, near the town of Lahaina. Nestled along the pristine shores of Ka’anapali Beach, the resort boasts a prime oceanfront location with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the neighboring islands of Lanai and Molokai. The Ka’anapali Golf Courses are also just a short drive away, offering championship-level golfing experiences amidst lush tropical landscapes.

For those seeking adventure, the Hyatt Regency Maui is close to popular attractions such as the scenic Hana Highway, the iconic Haleakalā National Park, and the picturesque Iao Valley State Park. Additionally, guests can enjoy a variety of water sports and outdoor activities right at the resort, including snorkeling, paddleboarding, and sunset catamaran cruises.

Best Hyatt Hotel In Hawaii: Andaz Maui Vs Grand Vs Regency Vs Centric

Recommended Post In "Tips"

Which is the best Hyatt hotel in Hawaii for earning or spending your World Of Hyatt points? Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort vs. Grand Hyatt Kauai vs. Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa vs. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa vs. Hyatt Centric and Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach? Best For Views: Hana-Maui Resort and Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa Ocean View Rooms (pictured above) Best For Beach: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa and the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort Best For Pools: Grand Hyatt Kauai followed by the Hyatt Regency Maui.

Style & Character

This features over 3,000 ft² of space. The interior is contemporary with wooden flooring, rust-coloured cushions, and inoffensive, if uninspiring, decor. There is a buffet area on one side of the lounge.

The highlight here is the patio with lots of tables with parasols and rattan chairs with provides a gorgeous place to enjoy a bite in the fresh air.

You must book a Regency Club room to access the lounge, but they have better views and are on higher floors of the hotel.

Best Hotel Executive Club Lounge In Hawaii

Which hotels in Hawaii offer the best executive club level lounges? We review lounges across Oahu, including Waikiki, Maui, Kaanapali, Kapalua, Wailea, Kauai, Poipu, and Hanalei, and the Big Island's picturesque Kona-Kohala coast. I have compiled a list below containing the best club lounges available across the best luxury hotels in Hawaii. I list the ones I consider to be the best at the top. I review each of these hotel club lounges in detail so you know what you will get if you book a room with club lounge access.

Food & Drink

Amenities include a morning continental breakfast, refreshments, and snacks throughout the day, with light hors d’oeuvres and desserts in the evening. Alcoholic beverages are chargeable but discounted.

Bearing jet lag in mind, the Regency Club is open from 6:30 to 9:00 am for breakfast. Breakfast usually consists of juices, all the usuals, a selection of cereals, cut fruit (mango, pineapple, and strawberries), pastries, muffins, banana cake, bread, a hot egg dish, smoked salmon, and sliced meats.

There are mid-day snacks, including nuts, fruit, and cookies, as well as soft drinks and juice so it isn’t a full lunch on offer but if you are happy to fill up on their excellent cookies and drinks, it is sufficient.

In the evening, there is a generous salad bar with loads of choices including items like spinach, strawberries and pecans, for a nice salad, along with meats and rolls and snacks like cheese and crackers. Some evenings there is a large bowl of pulled pork with rolls. There are also other appetizers like cheese, crackers, tomatoes, chips, sliced breads, etc.

Dinner for two of these resorts can easily cost close to $150 USD, which means that eating in the lounge is great value. However, remember that you will be paying around $5 USD for a drink. Dessert is available later in the evening.

Overall the food in this lounge is excellent with a lovely breakfast and evening offering, enough to fill you up, and snacks and drinks throughout the day.

Having Regency Club access at the Hyatt Regency Maui is likely to save rather than cost you more when considering resort food and drink costs, so it is worth splurging on.

Copyright Luxury Travel Diary 2014 - 2024. Duplication outside of luxurytraveldiary.com is forbidden.

Image courtesy of Hyatt Regency Maui.

Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing but may be amended at discretion of the vendor. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced.

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Kīhei 4th Friday town party features The Drivers on April 26

The April Kīhei 4th Friday town party will take place at Azeka Shopping Center Mauka on Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

This month’s free celebration features live music by Da Mauiwowee Band with Fatima and The Drivers, as well as a variety of food booths and trucks, art, crafts and local shopping.

Maui’s Classic and Collector’s Cars will be on display near the Keiki Zone. This month also features a Keiki Zone with Face Painting & Balloon Twisting, 4 Kids Quick Science, Huge Yard Games, Tale Magic, Hula Hoops, Rope Bubbles and a Mermaid Photo Booth.

The Azeka Shopping Center Mauka is located at 1279-1280 S. Kīhei Rd. Free parking is located less than one block away at Azeka Makai, Kīhei Plaza.

Main stage entertainment schedule:

• 6 p.m. to 6:10 p.m.  – Intro – MC Kathy Collins
• 6:10 p.m. to 7:20 p.m. – Da Mauiwowee Band with Fatima
• 7:20 p.m. to 7:35 p.m.  – Lucky Number Drawing
• 7:35 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.  – Announcements – MC Kathy Collins                                
• 7:45 p.m. to 8:55 p.m. – The Drivers
• 8:55 p.m. to 9 p.m.  – Closing Announcements – MC Kathy Collins

Food court entertainment schedule:

• 6:15 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. – Curtis Williams

Activities for Keiki and Teens:  FREE Face Painting & Balloon Twisting, 4 Kids Quick Science, Huge Yard Games, Hula Hoops, Rope Bubbles, and a Mermaid Photo Booth.

Food Booths and Food Trucks include:  Molokai Hot Bread, Fiyah Foods, Only Ono BBQ, Thai Esan Maui, Maui Cookie Lab, Taco 8 th  Wonder, Wow Wow Lemonade, Al’s BBQ, Maui Epanadas, Unreal Bobba, Wai Lemi and Yellowbelly.

K4F Retail : Alpha Maui,  Boobie Shack, Babelynn Basey, Bee Nourished,  Eunique Earrings, Glow Goddess, Golden Seraphina, Hanakini Swim, Hawaii Fudge, Healing Hands, Honi Designs, Holly Warrington Photography, Hous of Raven, Hula Cookies and Ice Cream,Hui No’eau, Island Virtual, Jawrsize, Jessie Tepora Art, Kekai Maile, Linx Hawaii, Little Ocean Jewelry, M& D Designs,  Maui Shellery,  Maui Mood Swing, Maui Veterans, Meahanalima, Mishni Bikini, Mystic of the Rainbow, Navea Maui, Objects of Desire, Paia Spice Company, Rowdy Outdoors, Shaka Apparel, Shop Da Abilay’s, Sunflower Gifts, Trende Boutique, Twisted Tailsman, Tropic Trade, Unusual Design, Upcountry Aloha, and Wilikina Creations.

In addition, Azeka Shopping Center has a variety of eateries Mauka and Makai:  Coconuts Fish Café, Diamonds Ice Bar & Grill, Ekolu Kitchen 1279, Fork & Salad, HomeMaid Café, Izakaya Genbe, Java Café, Le Bazaar,  Maui Pie, Miso Phat Sushi, Nalu’s South Shore Grill, Nutcharee’s Authentic Thai Food, Panda Express, Peace Love Shave Ice, Peggy Sue’s, Roasted Chiles,and Wow Wow Lemonade.

Other Azeka Shopping Center Merchants:  AA Oceanfront Rentals, Ace Hardware, Bank of Hawaii, BEK, Inc., Boost Mobile, DK Barber, Hawaiian Cruisers, Hele Gas Station/Mini Mart, Ikaika Construction, Island Art Party, Jonathan Thomas DDS, Kaiser Permanente, Kihei Community Association, Kihei Wailea Flowers by Cora, Maui Mojo Wellness,Maui Pediatric Dentistry, Maui Powerhouse Gym, Maui Toy Chest, Maui VR,  Next Level Marble & Granite ,Ocean Nail Spa, O’Reilly Automotive, ProArts Playhouse, Skyridge Lending, Snorkel Bob’s, Stellamation, The Sun Spot, Susu’s Studio & Design, Territorial Savings Bank, U.S. Post Office, and Zen Tattoo & Art Gallery.

Volunteers and Special Donations:  Kīhei Charter School.

Kīhei 4th Fridays consistently looks for volunteers. For those interested in volunteering for the monthly events, contact the Kīhei 4th Fridays  Facebook page .

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