Maui is home to a diverse range of marine life and coral reefs, making it an ideal destination for snorkelers of all skill levels. We spent a week on Maui exploring surroundings and snorkeling. Here are our favorite snorkeling spots on Maui.
Tips to make the most of your snorkeling experience on Maui
- Wearing reef-friendly mineral-based sunscreen
- Go early: The earlier you go snorkeling, the better the visibility will be. Try to get to your chosen snorkeling spot early in the morning, before the water gets crowded.
- Stay safe: Always snorkel with a buddy, and never swim too far from shore. Make sure to stay within your comfort level and avoid swimming in areas with strong currents or large waves.
- Respect the environment: Maui’s marine environment is fragile, so it’s important to be mindful of your impact. Don’t touch or stand on the coral, and avoid disturbing any marine life.
- Get comfortable in the water: If you’re not a confident swimmer, it’s a good idea to get comfortable in the water before you start snorkeling. Practice swimming and breathing with your head under the water.
- Watch the weather: Snorkeling conditions can change quickly on Maui, so it’s important to keep an eye on the weather. Avoid snorkeling in rough or choppy water, and be aware of any currents or waves.
- Respect the marine life: Maui has an incredible variety of marine life, but it’s important to respect the creatures you encounter while snorkeling. Don’t touch or disturb any animals or coral, and avoid standing on the reef.
Best snorkeling spots on Maui
Ahihi Kinau
Ahihi Kinau is a marine reserve located on the southern coast of Maui, near the town of Makena. The reserve is home to a variety of marine life, including vibrant coral reefs, colorful tropical fish, and even sea turtles. You can swim in the crystal-clear waters and see species like parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish. The reserve is accessible by a short walk from the parking lot. Get there early to get a parking spot as no parking allowed along the road.
Honolua Bay
Honolua Bay is a picturesque snorkeling spot located on the northwest coast of Maui, near the town of Kapalua. The bay is known for its healthy coral reefs, and diverse marine life. You can see a wide range of fish species, including reef sharks, octopus, and eels. There is a small parking lot near the trailhead, but you can park along the main road.
Kaanapali
Kaanapali is a popular snorkeling destination located on the western coast of Maui, near the town of Lahaina. The area features a large coral reef system and is home to a variety of fish species. Snorkelers can see species like butterflyfish, angelfish, and trumpetfish.
Coast off Lahaina Pali Trail
The coast off Lahaina Pali Trail is a great snorkeling spot located on the western coast of Maui, near the town of Lahaina. The area features a rocky coastline and a shallow reef system that is home to a variety of fish species. You can see species like triggerfish, tangs, and surgeonfish. We initially planned to take Molokai snorkeling tour, but ended up going to the tour that took us to the reef off Lahaina and the snorkeling there was amazing. We saw a lot of turtles and parrotfish.
Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater is a crescent-shaped volcanic island located off the coast of Maui. The island is a popular snorkeling spot due to its clear waters and diverse marine life. You can see species like yellow tangs, triggerfish, and moray eels.
Enjoy your snorkeling adventure on Maui!
