Annie's Favorite Snorkeling Spots
Maui is undoubtedly one of the finest Hawaiian islands when it comes to snorkeling. If you're gearing up for a trip, get ready to witness a plethora of underwater wonders. However, it's important to note that not all spots on the island offer exceptional snorkeling experiences. So, here's a list of our 6 top snorkeling spots where you can feast your eyes on vibrant fish, stunning coral, graceful turtles, and if you're fortunate enough, even catch a glimpse of playful dolphins. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure beneath the waves! Most of our picks are on the west side of the island. They're easy to get to from the Condo.
Honolua Bay
Street Parking
Honolua Bay, located on the picturesque west side of Maui, is undeniably the finest snorkeling spot in the area. This pristine bay is designated as a marine life conservation district, ensuring that fishing activities are restricted. Consequently, the bay teems with an abundance of marine life, making it an exceptional destination for snorkelers.
While Honolua Bay offers an unparalleled snorkeling experience, accessing this hidden gem can be a bit challenging. There is no designated parking lot, and only a limited number of parking spots are available along the road. From the street parking, a leisurely 5-minute walk will lead you to the rocky cove where the magic unfolds. Although it may require a little extra effort to reach and lacks a sandy beach for relaxation, the breathtaking underwater vistas more than compensate for any inconvenience.
Kapalua Bay
Just south of Honolua Bay lies another incredible snorkeling spot: Kapalua Bay. This hidden gem boasts a small, crescent-shaped beach with golden sand, surrounded by luxurious rental properties. Kapalua Bay offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal destination for a day of fun in and out of the water. One of the highlights of this bay is its semi-protected cove, which ensures calm and enjoyable waters. Just a short distance offshore, you'll discover a vibrant underwater world teeming with coral and fish. If you're lucky, you might even encounter some friendly sea turtles, as they are known to frequent this area.
When you're ready to take a break from the water, you'll be pleased to find a pristine sandy beach, complete with convenient amenities such as restrooms, showers, and equipment rentals right on the beach. If you're in the mood for a scenic stroll, the Kapalua Coastal Trail offers breathtaking views along the coast. While there are no food options directly on the beach, fear not! There are plenty of restaurants and stores nearby where you can grab everything you need to satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst.
Napili Bay
Napili Bay, located just south of Kapalua, is an absolute gem on the west side of Maui. This place is a paradise, boasting a larger bay than Kapalua, complete with a stunning sandy beach and gentle waves. Similar to Kapalua, the bay is mostly protected by a reef, except on days when the surf is high and the currents are strong. It's no wonder that families flock to this popular spot to bask in the small waves and marvel at the underwater sea life.
During the summer months, the bay is usually blessed with small waves, making it an absolute haven for swimmers of all ages. At Napili Bay, you'll have the opportunity to witness a mesmerizing variety of fish, particularly near the sides of the bay. Keep your eyes peeled along the south side, as you might just catch a glimpse of graceful turtles gracefully gliding through the water. Picture this: as you soak in the breathtaking sunset at Napili, you'll witness these majestic creatures bobbing their heads up and down along the shore. And if you happen to visit during the winter, you might even be lucky enough to spot whales in the distance. Although they don't venture into the bay itself, you'll still be able to admire their majestic presence further offshore.
So, whether you're seeking a tranquil swim, a chance to explore the vibrant marine life, or a front-row seat to nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles, Napili Bay is the place to be.
Black Rock
If you're staying in Ka'anapali, you're just steps away from one of the best snorkeling spots on the island. Black Rock offers amazing snorkeling along the rocks, but you might have to beat the crowds to get there. It's located between north and south Ka'anapali Beach, and it's a super easy spot to snorkel with lots of fish (and sometimes even turtles!) just a few steps from the shore.
Ka'anapali Beach is one of the most famous beaches on Maui, and it's not hard to see why. With three miles of soft sand and beautiful turquoise-blue water, it's a real paradise. But be warned, it can get pretty crowded here with all the big hotels and condo complexes lining the beach. Once you're in the water, make sure to swim along the rocks, but watch out for any daredevils jumping off the top of the rock.
Finding parking here can be a bit of a challenge if you don't get there early. The free beach parking is limited, so you might have to get creative. One option is to park at Whaler's Village and take advantage of their parking validation while you shop or grab a bite to eat.
Mala Wharf
This hidden gem never makes it onto the list of top snorkeling spots, but for those who know their way around a snorkel, it's an absolute paradise. Mala Wharf may be more famous for scuba diving, but trust me, it's a snorkeler's dream too. You'll be treated to a spectacular show of marine life, from colorful fish to graceful turtles, and if you're lucky (or maybe a little daring), you might even catch a glimpse of a reef shark.
Located right in the heart of Lahaina, Mala Wharf used to be a bustling pier until Hurricane Iniki wreaked havoc in 1992. Despite its tragic past, this spot has transformed into a haven for underwater enthusiasts.
To get to Mala Wharf, head to the north end of the beach. You'll find a decent-sized parking lot and a small beach area to kick back and relax. Timing is everything when it comes to entering the water – aim for high tide to make your entry a breeze. Once you're in, simply follow the path of the wharf wreckage away from the shore, and you'll be greeted by a vibrant underwater world teeming with fish and turtles.
So, if you're up for an adventure off the beaten path, Mala Wharf is the place to be. Don't let its lack of recognition fool you – this spot is a hidden treasure just waiting to be explored. Grab your snorkel gear and get ready for an unforgettable underwater experience.
Ulua Beach Park
This beach is one of our absolute favorites for families with young kids who love snorkeling. It's located in the Wailea area and offers a fantastic snorkeling experience. What makes it even better is the reef on the north side of Ulua Beach, which separates it from Mokapu Beach. The water here is usually calm, making it a perfect spot for exploring without venturing too far from the shore.
Moreover, the amenities in this area are incredibly convenient. There's a good-sized parking lot, although it tends to fill up quickly, and you'll find clean and well-maintained bathrooms and showers. Plus, there's plenty of shade provided by the surrounding trees, allowing you to escape the scorching sun if you plan on spending hours here.