The Best Beaches for Snorkeling on Maui

By Lauren LaDoux, Maui Sales Director

It is the dream to someday find yourself in the clear, warm waters of Hawai‘i snorkeling with the abundance of sea life that the Pacific has to offer. Maui has some of the best snorkel spots in the islands and we are here to steer you in the right direction. Here is a short list of a few of our favorite spots.

Honolua Bay
After an easy, short trek through the beautiful jungle on the Northwestern end of Maui, you’ll reach the scenic bay of Honolua. The water is warm and calm and the sea life is diverse and abundant. It is a perfect place for a morning snorkel and an afternoon picnic under the trees. This isn’t an ideal beach for sunbathing or building sun castles, but it’s a great place to get in and explore the waters of Mauiʻs west side. 

Turtle Town Maui and Maluaka Beach
This is one of our all time favorite spots to spend the day. Why, you may ask? Well, because of the turtles! Duh! The reef along this white, sandy beach always has turtles scattered along it. One of their favorite treats are the sea urchins living in the coral. Swimming side by side with one of these majestic creatures is such a privilege. The animals are protected so we try to make sure we don’t get too close and we don’t touch them. In addition to the turtles and fish, the beach here is beautiful and also makes for a perfect day to boogie board and build sandcastles with the kids.

‘Ahihi-Kina‘u Natural Area Reserve
This little reserve is just past Makena on the south side of the island. There is no white sandy beach and this area as you enter the water is covered in lava rock, but it is worth the trip and beautiful nonetheless. There is an abundance of beautiful aquatic life here that is protected from fishing. The water is so calm, it makes it a great place for beginners to get in. An ideal place to bring the kids!

Molokini
You will not regret taking this trip! The only way to get to this miniature island out in the middle of the ocean is by boat tour. You can see anything from fish, turtles and even sharks while out there! If you take the trip during whale season, you are sure to see some Humpbacks on your way out. Taking a trip out to Molokini  is a daylong activity and packed full of adventures and fun for all ages.

Don’t forget to rent your snorkel gear! We highly recommend Snorkel Bob’s who has designed and created the highest quality gear that will guarantee you comfort and success in the water. They’ll also help you book a boat tour to Molokini if that’s on your bucket list during your stay! Pick up one of our This Week Maui magazines and find more information on them.