Top 5 Maui Snorkeling Spots: Complete Guide 2024

Let’s get right into the main topic, the best places to snorkel in Maui, and you’re in for a treat, with famous places like Molokini Crater and more remote, hidden spots like Ahihi-Kinau.

Molokini Crater tops the list of Maui snorkeling spots. This crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater is a snorkeler’s dream located just a few miles off Maui’s coast.

What makes Molokini unique and special is its Marine Life Conservation District status. This means marine life can thrive and the underwater scenery is unlike anywhere else in the world.

When you get in the water, you’ll see over 250 species of fish, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.

The water at Molokini is as clear as it gets, often 150 feet or more. This means you can see every detail of the coral reefs and the fish swimming around you. However, to get to Molokini you’ll need to book a boat tour.

Is it worth taking a tour to Molokini? Absolutely, and you’ll have some of the best snorkeling experiences in your life!

Best time to Visit

The best time to visit Molokini is in the early morning. The water is calmer and the marine life is more active. Plus you’ll beat the midday crowds and have a more peaceful experience in this underwater paradise.

This list wouldn’t be complete without Turtle Town. Located on Maui’s south side, this is where the Hawaiian green sea turtles live.

Turtle Town isn’t a specific location but a stretch of coastline where you can see these amazing creatures. One of the best entry points is Maluaka Beach, also known as Turtle Beach.

As you swim through the water keep your eyes out for the gentle giants swimming by or munching on algae-covered rocks. It’s an amazing sight no matter how many times you’ve seen it.

Remember, while it’s tempting to get close to the turtles, be sure to keep a safe distance. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources recommends staying at least 10 feet away from sea turtles. This keeps them safe and preserves their natural behavior.

Turtle Town Snorkeling Tips

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when coming to Turtle Town in Maui:

• Get there early in the morning for the best chance to see turtles.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect yourself and the marine environment.
• Bring an underwater camera to take underwater photos of the sea turtles (don’t disturb them).

Located on the northwest side of Maui, Honolua Bay is a gem that easily makes it to this list of best spots to snorkel in Maui.

This marine life conservation district is one of the best snorkeling spots on the island, especially during the calm summer months.

Since the bay is a protected marine life conservation district fishing is not allowed. This means the marine life can thrive. You’ll see an incredible variety of fish species from parrotfish to needlefish.

If you’re lucky, you might even see an octopus or moray eel hiding in the rocks.

Honolua Bay’s coral reefs are amazing with large formations providing homes to countless marine life. The visibility here can be great especially on calm days so you can really see the underwater landscape.

To get to Honolua Bay, you’ll need to hike through a lush forest. It’s a rocky beach, so it’s not great for swimming, but the snorkeling is worth it.

Honolua Bay Snorkeling Tips

If you’re planning to snorkel at Honolua Bay, the best time to visit is during the summer months from May to September. For the calmest conditions, try to go early in the morning.

Make sure to bring your snorkel gear, water shoes, and reef-safe sunscreen. An underwater camera, snacks, and plenty of water will also come in handy. For the best snorkeling experience, enter the water on the right side of the bay. Be cautious of slippery rocks when you’re getting in.

Lanai, the secret gem off of Maui, has some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii. Hulopoe Bay on the south side is a favorite. The waters are home to coral reefs and lots of marine life.

If you want an adventure, go to the Cathedrals, two underwater lava tubes that are an amazing dive.

Getting to Lanai is easy with several tour companies offering day trips from Maui. These tours usually include a boat ride, snorkeling gear, and sometimes meals.

Once you get there, local guides will take you to the best spots and make sure you have a safe and fun experience.

Best Time to Visit Lanai

Lanai is great for snorkeling, especially during the summer months May to September. Go out early in the morning for the calmest waters. Bring your snorkel gear, water shoes, and reef-safe sunscreen.

Also, bring an underwater camera, snacks, and lots of water. Lastly, when you get to the snorkeling spots watch out for slippery rocks as you get in the water.

Last on this ultimate list is the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve. This protected area on the south shore of Maui is a bit off the beaten path.

The reserve covers 807 submerged acres of marine ecosystems so there’s a haven for all sorts of marine life. The volcanic landscape here is dramatic with lava fields going right down to the ocean.

This rugged terrain creates many nooks and crannies underwater to discover marine life. How’s that for a unique trip on the island?

Please note that only a small part of Ahihi Bay is open to the public. Be sure to respect the signs and only enter the water in designated areas. We recommend either Little Beach and Oneuli Beach, which are great for snorkeling.

When snorkeling here, you’ll see colorful parrotfish, curious butterflyfish, and maybe even a green sea turtle.

Tips for Snorkeling at Ahihi-Kinau

Ahihi-Kinau is a bit more remote than other snorkeling spots, so come prepared. There are no facilities or amenities nearby so bring water, snacks, and sun protection.

The shoreline is mostly lava rock so water shoes are helpful for getting in and out of the water.

Get directions to Ahihi-Kinau and go snorkeling in a world away from the crowds at the other beaches. The advantage is that there are several beaches, so you can always hop from one to another.

Before you go out to these snorkeling spots, make sure to prioritize safety. Here are the essentials:

• Check the ocean conditions before you get in the water.
• Always snorkel with someone – It’s not only safer but also more fun.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the marine environment.
• Know your limits. If you’re not a strong swimmer consider using a life jacket or sticking to shallow areas.
• Respect marine life. Don’t touch or step on coral and keep a safe distance from sea turtles and other creatures.
• Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed. Snorkeling is more physically demanding than you think.