Best Snorkeling in Maui: 11 Spots I’ll Never Forget

There’s nothing like snorkeling in Maui. My first time slipping into the water at Ahihi-Kinau, I was surrounded by swaying coral, darting reef fish, and yes a sea turtle gliding right beneath me. Since then, I’ve explored nearly every corner of the island with my mask and fins. Whether you’re a first-timer or a confident snorkeler, this guide will help you find the best snorkeling spots in Maui, choose the right gear, plan around seasons, and discover a few surprises that most guides miss.

Top Snorkeling Spots in Maui (That I’ve Personally Tried)

Molokini Crater (Boat Access Only)

This volcanic atoll lies about 3 miles off Maui’s southern coast and offers some of the clearest snorkeling in all of Hawaii visibility can reach 150 feet on a good day. You’ll snorkel in a partially submerged crater that shelters vibrant coral reefs and schools of tropical fish. Expect to see yellow tangs, raccoon butterflyfish, and possibly reef sharks and moray eels. Because it’s offshore, the area is only accessible by boat. Most tours leave from Ma‘alaea Harbor and include gear, breakfast, and a stop at nearby Turtle Town.

Best for: Clear water, coral diversity, boat tours, underwater photography

Turtle Town (Maluaka Beach)

Located near Makena, Turtle Town is named for a reason green sea turtles (honu) are frequently seen grazing along the reef. It’s a great spot for beginners thanks to the calm waters and soft sand entry. I like to go early in the morning before the wind picks up. Don’t forget your underwater camera seeing a turtle swim beside you is an unforgettable experience. It’s also conveniently close to restrooms and gear rental shops.

Best for: Sea turtles, beginners, calm conditions, photography

Ahihi-Kinau Natural Reserve

This protected area is one of Maui’s most pristine snorkeling zones, with dense coral gardens and crystal-clear shallows. There’s no beach here entry is over lava rocks, so bring reef shoes. Because it’s a conservation area, you won’t find lifeguards or restrooms, but you will find an incredible underwater ecosystem teeming with tangs, goatfish, triggerfish, and the occasional octopus. Go early in the day for the best visibility and least crowding.

Best for: Untouched reefs, marine biodiversity, experienced snorkelers

Black Rock (Kaanapali Beach)

Set at the northern end of Kaanapali Beach, Black Rock is famous for its easy access and dual-purpose vibe you can sunbathe one minute, snorkel the next. The rock wall creates a mini-reef that’s home to colorful fish and occasionally sea turtles. The nearby resorts make it convenient, but it can get busy by midday. It’s also a popular cliff diving spot, so snorkel slightly away from the jumping zone.

Best for: Resort access, casual snorkeling, turtles, cliffside atmosphere

Honolua Bay

This north shore spot is a marine life conservation district and well worth the effort to reach. A shaded trail through the forest opens to a rocky shoreline with limited sand, but the reef more than makes up for it. During summer, when the waters are calm, you can snorkel over coral heads and spot schools of fish, eels, and sea stars. Winter months bring surf, not snorkelers, so plan accordingly.

Best for: Lush scenery, summer snorkeling, serious marine life

Kapalua Bay

Tucked between two lava rock outcroppings, Kapalua Bay is like nature’s swimming pool. The reef starts just a few feet from shore, and the waters are almost always calm, making it ideal for kids or first-time snorkelers. I usually spot butterflyfish and the occasional turtle here. There are restrooms, showers, and even a grassy picnic area, which makes this one of the most well-rounded snorkeling beaches on Maui.

Best for: Families, ease of access, amenities, relaxing snorkel

More Hidden Gems Worth Exploring

While Maui has plenty of famous snorkeling locations, there are some lesser-known gems that I absolutely love for their unique charm, fewer crowds, and rewarding marine life.

• Charley Young Beach: Located at the north end of Kamaole I in Kihei, this beach has a sandy entry and tends to be quieter in the early morning. The reef hugs the rocky outcrop on the right side perfect for beginners easing into their first snorkel experience. It’s also near some of the best beaches in Kihei.
• Keawakapu Beach: Tucked between Kihei and Wailea, this long, golden beach offers calm mornings with decent snorkeling along the rocky outcrops on either end. I’ve had a few unexpected turtle sightings here while floating near the southern rocks.
• Makena Landing: Not far from Turtle Town but often less crowded, this small cove offers great visibility and a mix of coral gardens and rocky terrain. I saw three turtles in one morning here without a tour! It’s easy to access and perfect for intermediate snorkelers.
• La Perouse Bay: If you’re up for a rugged adventure, this bay at the end of Makena Alanui Road takes you into a lava field with a raw, wild coastline. The water can be choppy, so only snorkel on calm days, but the reef and underwater lava formations are unforgettable.
• Five Caves (aka Five Graves): Just south of Makena Landing, this is for confident snorkelers only. You’ll find underwater caves, arches, and a mysterious, almost spooky vibe. Bring a dive light and never snorkel here alone it’s beautiful but intense.
• Ulua & Mokapu Beaches: These Wailea beaches are side-by-side and share the same reef system. Head toward the rocky outcroppings between the two beaches for excellent snorkeling with lots of fish and the occasional turtle. Bonus: free public parking nearby.
• Kahekili Beach Park (Airport Beach): Don’t let the name fool you this West Maui spot is a solid alternative to Black Rock. The reef starts just a few yards from shore and spreads out with minimal crowds. I like it for its easy parking and shaded picnic areas.
  
• Napili Bay: Calm and shallow, this is one of the best places for families with young snorkelers. The reef hugs both sides of the bay, and the center stays sandy. On clear mornings, I’ve watched butterflyfish swim in just knee-deep water.
• Mala Wharf (Lahaina): This sunken concrete pier has turned into an incredible artificial reef. I was blown away by the dense schools of fish here, plus the eerie underwater structure is a favorite for photographers and advanced snorkelers. It’s not the easiest entry, but it’s totally worth it if you’re confident in deeper water. If you’re already in town, check out the full list of things to do in Lahaina.

These hidden spots often deliver just as much if not more than the popular ones, especially if you go early and snorkel respectfully. For even more ideas, don’t miss this guide to places to visit in Maui and the best state parks in Maui.

Marine Life You Might See

Maui’s waters are teeming with wildlife. Here’s what I’ve personally encountered:

• Green sea turtles (honu)
• Parrotfish, butterflyfish, Moorish idols
• Moray eels
• Spotted eagle rays (if you’re lucky!)
• Sea urchins, sea cucumbers
• Octopus
• Occasionally: spinner dolphins offshore

If you’re planning to visit other scenic spots nearby, be sure to check out Waianapanapa State Park or hike through the lush beauty of Haleakalā National Park.

Where to Rent Snorkel Gear

I usually rent from:

• Snorkel Bob’s (multiple locations, prescription masks available)
• Boss Frog’s (budget-friendly, good packages)

Bring or rent:

• Snorkel + mask (or full-face set)
• Fins
• Rash guard
• Waterproof phone case
• Reef-safe sunscreen (required in marine reserves)

Before heading out, make sure your sunscreen is reef-friendly Hawaii has strict rules to protect its coral reefs. You can read my full guide to reef-safe sunscreen in Hawaii for product tips and legal insights.

When to Snorkel in Maui (By Season)

• Winter (Dec–Feb): North shore is rough stick to south spots like Ahihi-Kinau and Maluaka.
• Spring (Mar–May): Shoulder season less crowded, good snorkeling all around.
• Summer (Jun–Aug): Best conditions for Honolua, Napili, and the north shore.
• Fall (Sep–Nov): Calm waters return, visibility peaks in many south Maui spots.

Best time of day: Early morning less wind, fewer people, better visibility.

Snorkeling Difficulty & Amenities Table

Spot	Difficulty	Gear Rentals Nearby	Bathrooms	Turtles Likely?
Molokini Crater	Intermediate	Tour-included	Yes (boat)	Sometimes
Turtle Town	Easy	Yes (Wailea/Kihei)	Yes	Yes
Ahihi-Kinau	Intermediate	No	No	Sometimes
Black Rock	Easy	Yes (Kaanapali)	Yes	Yes
Honolua Bay	Moderate	No	No	Yes
Kapalua Bay	Easy	Yes (Napili)	Yes	Yes
Napili Bay	Easy	Yes	Yes	Occasionally
Mala Wharf	Advanced	Yes (Lahaina)	Limited	Sometimes

Snorkeling Tours I Recommend

If you want to snorkel Molokini or Coral Gardens, tours are your best bet:

• Pacific Whale Foundation – Educational, eco-conscious
• Redline Rafting – Smaller boats, fewer crowds
• Trilogy Excursions – Luxurious touches, great for couples

Final Thoughts: Snorkeling in Maui is Pure Magic

Every time I snorkel in Maui, I leave the water feeling calmer, more connected, and totally amazed by what’s beneath the surface. It’s not just about the fish or turtle, it’s the weightlessness, the colors, the quiet. I hope this guide helps you create your own magical moments, whether you’re paddling out at Molokini or floating lazily in Kapalua Bay. Happy snorkeling!

Related Guides to Explore Next

• Best Waterfalls in Maui
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen in Hawaii
• Things to Do in Lahaina
• Best Beaches in Kihei
• Waianapanapa State Park
• Haleakalā National Park