Maui is a tropical paradise located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, offering visitors a wide range of activities, including snorkeling. With its clear blue waters and vibrant marine life, Maui is a top destination for snorkelers of all skill levels! Lets explore the best snorkeling spots in Maui, so you can make the most of your underwater adventure!
Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater is a popular snorkeling spot in Maui, located about three miles off the coast of Kihei. This partially submerged volcanic crater offers an incredible underwater experience, with crystal clear waters and diverse marine life. You can expect to see a variety of colorful fish, sea turtles, eels, and even the occasional shark. The crater’s crescent shape protects the snorkeling area from strong currents, making it a great spot for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
Honolua Bay
Honolua Bay is located on Maui’s northwest coast, about 30 minutes from Lahaina. This marine reserve is a protected area, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. The bay’s crystal clear waters provide excellent visibility, allowing snorkelers to see a variety of marine life, including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and even octopuses. Honolua Bay’s shallow reefs also make it a great spot for beginners.
Kapalua Bay
Kapalua Bay is located on Maui’s northwest coast, about ten minutes from Honolua Bay. This crescent-shaped bay is known for its calm, clear waters and sandy bottom, making it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. Snorkelers can expect to see a variety of colorful fish and even the occasional sea turtle. The bay’s shallow reefs also make it a great spot for beginners.
Black Rock
Black Rock is located on Kaanapali Beach, one of Maui’s most popular tourist destinations. This volcanic rock formation is a popular spot for snorkeling, with clear waters and diverse marine life. Snorkelers can expect to see a variety of reef fish, sea turtles, and even octopuses. Black Rock is also a popular spot for cliff jumping, so if you’re feeling adventurous, you can jump from the rock and into the water.
Olowalu Reef
Olowalu Reef is located on Maui’s west coast, about 20 minutes from Lahaina. This coral reef is home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. The reef’s shallow waters make it a great spot for beginners, and experienced snorkelers can explore the deeper sections of the reef. Olowalu Reef is also a popular spot for whale watching during the winter months.
Ahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve
Ahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve is located on Maui’s south coast, about 20 minutes from Kihei. This marine reserve is home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even manta rays. The reserve’s clear waters and diverse marine life make it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Ahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve is also a great spot for exploring tide pools and lava formations.
Makena Landing
Makena Landing is located on Maui’s south coast, about 30 minutes from Kihei. This small cove is a popular spot for snorkeling, with clear waters and diverse marine life. Snorkelers can expect to see a variety of reef fish, sea turtles, and even eagle rays. Makena Landing’s shallow reefs also make it a great spot for beginners.
Maui offers a wide range of snorkeling spots so make sure the check them all out and see some incredible local marine life!