South Maui Snorkeling: Best Snorkel Spots & Tours 2024

South Maui Snorkeling is a dream come true for ocean lovers. Imagine crystal-clear waters filled with colorful fish and coral reefs. The best spots for snorkeling are Ulua, Turtle Town, and Ahihi Kinau Reserve.

With nearly two decades of annual visits to Maui and a passion for diving and snorkeling that began in 1995 when I earned my PADI Open Water certification, I can confidently say that Maui offers some of the best snorkeling experiences on the islands.

You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy snorkeling here. The calm waters and easy access make it perfect for beginners, too. Pack your gear or rent from local shops, and you’re set for an adventure.

Look out for sea turtles, tropical fish, and even manta rays. Each location offers unique underwater views and experiences.

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Popular Sites for South Maui Snorkeling

• Molokini Crater: A volcanic atoll where you can see colorful coral and fish.
• Turtle Town: Known for its abundance of Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles.
• Ahihi Kinau Reserve: A protected area with various fish and vibrant coral reefs.

You might find parrotfish, butterflyfish, Humuhumunukunukuapua`a, and octopus at these spots. Don’t be surprised to see moray eels peeking out from the coral.

What to Bring

• Snorkel Gear: Mask, snorkel, and fins.
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protects both you and the marine life.
• Floatation Device: If you’re not a strong swimmer.
• Water Shoes: In case you have to walk on rocks or lava rocks
• Beach Towel

Make sure to go early in the morning. The waters are calmer, and you’ll have a better chance of seeing more marine life.

Tips for South Maui Snorkeling

• Stay Safe: Always snorkel with a buddy.
• Respect the Reef: Don’t touch or step on the coral.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water.
• Arrive Early: Avoid the crowds and enjoy the marine life.
• Respect the Wildlife: Don’t feed the fish or other marine life. Please don’t touch them, and leave at least 10 feet between you and them.
• Follow the beach rules.
• Check Weather: Avoid strong currents.
• Watch for Rocks: Be careful entering and exiting the water
• Have the right equipment.
• Use a floatation device if you are not a confident swimmer.
• Never turn your back to the ocean while entering or exiting

Best South Maui Snorkeling Beaches

Makena Landing

Makena offers fantastic snorkeling experiences with its clear waters and abundant marine life. One great spot to start your adventure is near the restrooms, where you can head to the right.

Begin your snorkeling day at Makena Landing. The restrooms are located on the left side of the bay. It’s easiest to enter the water here due to the sandy beach.

Once you’re in the water, head to the right side of the bay. This area is known for coral formations and diverse fish species; visibility is usually excellent.

Keep your eyes open for turtles. They’re often spotted munching on seaweed around the rocky areas. The waters here are typically calm, ideal for beginners and experienced snorkelers. Be mindful of currents and stay close to the shoreline.

Ulua Beach

Ulua Beach offers a wonderful snorkeling experience with clear waters and plenty of marine life. The beach is a favorite spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Start your snorkel adventure by heading to the right side of Ulua Beach. You will find large rocks that serve as a guide. These rocks are home to various fish and coral formations.

You may see butterflyfish, parrotfish, and even sea turtles as you swim along. The water is usually calm, making it easier to navigate.

Feel free to take your time and explore every nook and cranny. Remember to bring your underwater camera to capture the beautiful scenes.

Ulua Beach is perfect for snorkelers of all skill levels. If you’re a beginner, the calm waters make practicing easy. Just remember to stay near the rocky shoreline for safety.

For experienced snorkelers, there are deeper areas to explore where you can find larger fish and more diverse underwater landscapes.

The beach has an easy entry point, sandy and free of obstacles. This makes getting in and out of the water a breeze, especially for kids and less experienced snorkelers.

Wailea Beach

Wailea is a beautiful area famous for its upscale resorts and stunning beaches. The clear water and diverse marine life make it perfect for snorkeling.

When you go to Wailea Beach, you’ll find an extensive reef to the left side of the shore. This reef is home to colorful fish and various types of coral.

The best time to snorkel here is early morning when the water is calm. You might even spot sea turtles swimming nearby.

Bring your snorkeling gear and use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine life.

Maluaka Beach, Aka Turtle Town

Maluaka, also known as Turtle Town, is a fantastic spot for snorkeling. The waters are clear, and there are colorful fish and turtles.

When snorkeling at Maluaka Beach, head to the left side. This area is known for its calm waters and marine life.

You can often see green sea turtles swimming around the coral. Always keep a safe distance from them and do not chase.

The coral reefs here are shallow, making it easy to see the colorful fish without going too deep. Look for parrotfish, butterflyfish, and sometimes even an eel hiding in the rocks.

Ahihi-Kinau Marine Preserve

Ahihi-Kinau Marine Preserve offers some of the best snorkeling experiences in South Maui. This protected area is known for its coral reefs, abundant fish, and unique lava rock formations.

When you snorkel at Ahihi-Kinau, you’ll see various tropical fish. Moorish idols, butterflyfish, and angelfish swim around coral and rocky outcrops. Deeper water areas may reveal larger fish like parrotfish and goatfish. Keep an eye out for colorful schools gliding through the water. This underwater world is bustling with life.

Arriving early in the morning gives you the best experience. The water is calmer, and sea creatures are more active. You’ll see fish, eels, and even manta rays before it gets crowded. The sunlight at this time highlights the beautiful coral formations. Starting early gives you a more peaceful and fulfilling snorkeling adventure.

As you enter the water, head to the right for the best sights. You’ll encounter coral reefs and deeper water with rich marine life. This area is less crowded and gives a clearer view of tropical fish and coral. Snorkeling to the right also brings you closer to rocky outcrops where marine life tends to gather.

The preserve is full of sharp lava rock, which adds to its unique beauty. However, these rocks can be sharp and slippery. It’s crucial to wear water shoes to protect your feet. These shoes help you navigate the rocky shoreline and make getting in and out of the water safer and more comfortable.

La Perouse Bay

La Perouse, located in South Maui, is a great spot for snorkeling. The bay is known for its clear blue waters and abundant marine life.

When you visit La Perouse, remember your snorkeling gear. The water is calm in the early morning, making it ideal for snorkeling.

You might see colorful fish, sea turtles, and occasional rays. The bay is also surrounded by lava rock formations, adding to the stunning scenery.

There are no lifeguards at La Perouse, so be careful while swimming. Always keep an eye on weather conditions and currents.

Bring some snacks and water because there are no facilities nearby. Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.

La Perouse is part of the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve, which means it is protected. Please follow all guidelines and respect the wildlife.

If you like hiking, the trails nearby offer great bay views and the surrounding lava fields.

Parking can be a bit tricky as there are limited spots. Try to arrive early to secure a spot.

In summary, La Perouse offers a beautiful, quiet spot for snorkeling with amazing marine life and views.

Charley Young Beach

Charley Young Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing and snorkeling. Its soft sand and underwater adventures are just a short swim away, offering a unique experience.

Charley Young Beach welcomes you with its golden sand. The sand is fine and comfortable to walk on, making it perfect for laying out your towel or playing beach games. Families often enjoy the shore’s gentle slope, making it safe for kids to splash in the shallow water. Trees provide shaded areas, offering a cool break from the sun.

For the best snorkeling experience, head to the right side of Charley Young Beach. The clear water provides excellent visibility of coral reefs and various marine life. You might spot fish like parrotfish, butterflyfish, and even sea turtles. Mornings are ideal for snorkeling because the water is usually calm, and fewer people are around.

Kamaole Beaches (I, II, III)

Kamaole Beaches are great for snorkelers. Each beach, Kam I, Kam II, and Kam III, offers unique snorkeling experiences around rocky points with calm waters at certain times.

Kam I

Kam I is known for its excellent snorkeling on the left side near the rocky point. You’ll find colorful coral formations and a variety of fish. This area is usually less crowded, providing a more peaceful experience. Pay attention to water conditions for the clearest views.

Kam II

Kam II offers good snorkeling on both sides near the rocky points. The north and south ends of the beach provide different experiences, with diverse marine life on display. Kamaole II is a local favorite, so it might get busy on weekends.

Kam III

Kam III is best for snorkeling on the right side. This spot features clear water and coral reefs. The marine life here is abundant, making it a delight for snorkelers. The beach park provides easy access, making it convenient for families.

Snorkeling at Kamaole Beaches depends greatly on water conditions. Calm waters offer the best visibility and safest experience, so checking conditions before heading out is wise. West Maui beaches like Kahekili Beach Park and Ka’anapali Beach are also good options if the conditions at Kamaole aren’t ideal.

Po’olenalena Beach

Po’olenalena Beach is a hidden gem in South Maui. It’s less crowded and offers a relaxing atmosphere. You’ll find golden sand and clear water, perfect for snorkeling.

The marine life at Po’olenalena is colorful and varied. You might see:

• Tropical Fish: Bright and beautiful
• Sea Turtles: Often spotted near the rocks
• Coral Reefs: Colorful and alive

It’s best to visit early morning, as the water is calmer. When the sun isn’t as strong, late afternoon can also be nice.

Po’olenalena Beach promises a great snorkeling experience. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy the underwater world without the crowds.

Keawakapu Beach

At Keawakapu Beach, you’ll find excellent snorkeling opportunities. The beach features clear waters, sandy shores, and marine life, making it an excellent spot for snorkelers of all levels.

Snorkeling at Keawakapu Beach is best near the rocky points on either side. The rocks create natural habitats for fish and other marine creatures. You can see colorful fish, sea urchins, and even the occasional sea turtle.

The water is usually calm, making it easier to explore. Bring your snorkel gear and head out early for the clearest water conditions. You’ll see a diverse range of marine life right near the shore.

Don’t forget to stay safe and mindful of ocean conditions while enjoying your snorkeling adventure!

Palauea Beach

Palauea Beach is a quiet spot in South Maui that is perfect for a calm day of snorkeling. It has much to offer with its powdery sand, hidden charm, and thrilling marine life.

You will first notice the soft, white sand. It feels like powder beneath your feet. You can easily spread out a blanket and relax. There is plenty of shade from the nearby trees. The beach is rarely crowded, giving it a peaceful, almost private vibe. It’s ideal for soaking up the sun or enjoying a beach nap.

Palauea Beach has a small, hidden cove surrounded by lava rocks, which adds to its secluded feeling. You need to take a short trail through some trees to reach it. The cove is perfect for a quiet swim away from the main beach—it’s like having your secret corner of paradise.

For a fantastic snorkeling experience, head to the left side of the beach. The water is usually clear, letting you see colorful fish and coral. White Rock is nearby, adding another interesting spot to explore underwater. It’s an excellent spot for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers.

Polo Beach

Polo Beach is a great spot in South Maui for snorkeling. You will find clear waters and a variety of marine life.

When you enter Polo Beach, head to the right. The best snorkeling spots are near the rocky edges. Wear your snorkel gear and get in the water.

Look for parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish. They swim around the coral and rocks. Stay close to the shore for the best views.

The water is usually calm and clear, making it easy to see underwater. Remember to respect the marine life and avoid touching the coral. This keeps the ecosystem healthy for everyone.

Two Popular Areas For Boat Tours

Lanai and Molokini are two of the best spots for snorkeling tours in South Maui. Each offers unique snorkeling experiences.

Lanai Island – Preferred

Lanai is a favorite for many snorkelers. On boat tours, go to the island, where you might see spinner dolphins. The water is calm, making it perfect for beginners. Coral reefs are abundant and filled with tropical fish.

Your boat tour often includes lunch and guidance from experienced crew members. They can point out interesting marine life and ensure your safety.

Molokini Crater

Molokini is another top spot, but it can get busy. This crescent-shaped crater is known for its clear water and marine diversity.

Inexperienced snorkelers often flock here, making it crowded. Still, the underwater views are stunning. You might spot sea turtles and colorful fish.

Your Maui snorkel tour usually stops early to avoid crowds. Guides can help you navigate busier areas to still enjoy your snorkeling experience.

Many tours also include a stop at Turtle Town, where you can see green sea turtles up close.

Final Thoughts about South Maui Snorkeling

In conclusion, South Maui offers some of the most spectacular snorkeling experiences on the island, with its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life.

Whether you’re exploring the iconic Molokini Crater, swimming alongside sea turtles at Turtle Town, or discovering hidden gems along the coastline, each snorkeling adventure promises unforgettable memories.

So grab your gear, embrace the underwater wonders, and immerse yourself in the beauty that South Maui has to offer!

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Frequently Asked Questions about South Maui Snorkeling

When snorkeling in South Maui, it’s helpful to know about top-rated tours, beginner-friendly spots, maps, the best time to visit, and the differences between popular beaches.

Grab Life & Don’t Forget To Wear Sunscreen! Happy Exploring!