Top Snorkeling Spots on Maui

Looking for the best snorkeling spots in Maui? You’re not alone! We guarantee you won’t be disappointed by the breathtaking underwater paradise that awaits. Maui is home to dozens of incredible snorkeling and diving locations, and we’ve put together a list of the top must-visit spots. While Hawaii boasts many stunning snorkeling destinations, Maui stands out as the #1 island for underwater exploration. Even if you’re not a strong swimmer, you can still enjoy these beautiful locations. We always recommend snorkeling with a buddy and trusting your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, it’s best to stay on shore.

For a unique experience, hop aboard the Four Winds and try our patented Sea Boards, which let you float effortlessly while enjoying a clear view of the underwater world. No matter when you visit, winter or summer, Maui offers unforgettable snorkeling adventures year-round!

Located just a few miles off Maui’s rugged Makena coast, lies the sunken volcanic crater of Molokini. The crater is one of only three sheltered volcanic calderas in existence. Its crystal-clear waters are home for a diverse marine life, including tropical fish, manta rays, moray eels, and many more.

Molokini remains one of Maui’s top “must-see” destinations. Known for some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii, this volcanic crater has been consistently ranked as a top reef snorkel site. Even its back side is considered one of the top 10 dive spots in the world!

Why Snorkel at Molokini?

Thanks to its natural crescent shape, Molokini offers protection from strong waves and currents, making snorkeling here both safe and enjoyable (weather conditions can vary). The experienced crew of the Four Winds is always present, both in and out of the water, ensuring an unforgettable and safe snorkeling experience.

If you’re searching for a place to check out in Maui, Molokini Crater is simply a must-do. Unlike traditional beach shore snorkel spots, Molokini has a mix of coral reef, sand patches, and rocks.

What to Expect at Molokini Crater

Molokini’s waters are typically calm with crystal clear visibility, making it ideal for beginner to intermediate snorkelers. Since it can only be reached by boat, we recommend booking a tour with the Four Winds or Maui Magic for the best experience.

Molokini Crater: Snorkel & Dive Sites

• Tako Flats – A sandy channel with coral heads where octopuses and manta rays are commonly spotted.
• Middle Reef – Almost every species of Hawaiian tropical fish can be found here.
• Shark Condos – Located near the crater’s left end, this deeper area (around 150 feet) is home to reef sharks that pose no threat to snorkelers or divers.
• The Back Side – The rear wall of the crater has a dramatic, steep underwater wall ideal for experienced divers.
• Edge of the World – This shadowed section of the crater attracts rare marine species.

If you want to experience the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world, book a snorkeling trip to this stunning destination, Coral Gardens!

Located along the coast of West Maui, Coral Gardens offers crystal-clear blue waters teeming with vibrant marine life. This area is famously known for its impressive coral reef formations, large variety of tropical fish, and Hawaiian green sea turtles.

What You Can Expect to See at Coral Gardens

• Angel Fish & Parrot Fish – Brightly colored fish that thrive among the coral reefs.
• Crabs, Eels & Octopuses – Hidden among the reefs, these fascinating creatures add to the excitement of snorkeling.
• Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles – Graceful and gentle, they’re a highlight of any snorkeling trip.
• Humpback Whales (Seasonal Sightings) – If you’re visiting Maui during the months of December through March, you’ll get the bonus of seeing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Located in the northwestern part of Maui, approximately 20 miles north of Lahaina, Honolua Bay is a breathtaking snorkeling destination. Surrounded by rugged cliffs that shield it from the wind, the bay’s calm waters create an ideal environment for underwater exploration.

As you enter the bay, you’ll notice darker sand and rocky areas in the shallows, but as you swim farther out, the seabed transitions to soft white sand, revealing stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life.

A Snorkeling & Surfing Paradise

Honolua Bay is home to a vibrant ecosystem, where you may encounter:

• Wrasse, Parrotfish, Butterflyfish & Triggerfish – Colorful and lively, these tropical species are a delight to observe.
• Boxfish (a favorite among snorkelers!) – Small but unique, these fish are easily recognizable.
• Snapper, Eels & Sea Turtles – A mix of reef dwellers and open-water species adds to the variety.

For the more adventurous, Honolua Bay offers depths of up to 30 feet, providing plenty of opportunities for experienced snorkelers and divers to explore.

Beyond snorkeling, Honolua Bay is also a world-renowned surf spot. When the waves are pumping, the bay becomes a spectacle as surfers ride the powerful swells. However, strong surf can stir up the water, affecting visibility.

Important Visitor Tips

• No Lifeguards on Duty – Swim with caution, especially if conditions change.
• No Facilities – Restrooms and showers are not available, though portable toilets are sometimes placed at the entrance.
• Limited Parking – Parking is scarce, and the winding road leading to the bay can be busy, so drive carefully.

A Protected Natural Treasure

Honolua Bay is a true paradise for snorkelers, offering crystal-clear waters, flourishing coral reefs, and an unforgettable underwater world. Thanks to the efforts of local conservationists, this area has been preserved from modern development, allowing visitors to experience its raw, untouched beauty.

From graceful manta rays and playful octopuses to Moorish idols and yellow tangs, the marine life here is nothing short of spectacular. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned diver, Honolua Bay is a destination that will leave you longing to return.

Turtle Town (also known as Turtle Arches, Five Caves, and Five Graves) is one of the best places in Maui to observe Hawaiian green sea turtles. If you or your little ones are eager to swim alongside these graceful creatures, this is the perfect snorkeling destination.

What Makes Turtle Town a Must-See?

Located on Maui’s southern coast, Turtle Town is famous for its unique underwater lava formations, which provide shelter for marine life. In the morning, the calm, protected waters make it an excellent snorkeling spot, attracting not only sea turtles but also vibrant tropical fish and other marine life.

What to Expect at Turtle Town

• Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles – Hawaiian green sea turtles can grow up to four feet in length and weigh up to 400 pounds! While they are fascinating to watch, it’s very important to keep a respectable distance, as they are an endangered species and federally protected under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
• Unique Lava Formations – The underwater arches and caves offer incredible snorkeling opportunities, providing an amazing experience to observe a diverse array of marine life.
• Abundant Marine Life – In addition to sea turtles, you’ll likely spot a variety of colorful fish and other sea creatures.

How to Get There

Turtle Town is typically accessed by boat. We highly recommend booking your snorkeling trip in advance. Maui Classic Charters’ Maui Magic offers fantastic snorkeling tours to Molokini Crater and a second stop which is typically Turtle Town or Makena Landing.

Black Rock is located on the beautiful Ka’anapali Beach, directly opposite the Sheraton Maui Resort. Black Rock is one of Maui’s most popular snorkeling and cliff-jumping spots and is easily accessible. The shoreline is approximately a 3-mile stretch, which has a scenic boardwalk and access to Whalers Village, where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Snorkeling at Black Rock

The clarity of the water at Black Rock is crystal-clear with a sandy bottom, with coral formations about 7-25 feet deep. Snorkelers can expect to spot:

• Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles – Usually spotted around rocky formations, where they feed of the algae.
• Tropical Fish – Keep an eye out for species like Hawkfish, Surgeonfish, Needlefish, and the Humuhumunukunukuapua’a—Hawaii’s famous state fish!

Cliff-Jumping at Black Rock

Black Rock is also a popular jumping spot, attracting thrill-seekers who enjoy jumping from the lava rock into the beautiful warm ocean waters. The cliffs here aren’t very high, making it a fun adventure for those looking for an adrenaline rush.

Nice Weather Conditions Year-Round

Generally, the waters at Black Rock are calm year-round, which make it a highly desirable location for beach seekers.  Black Rock is an inviting place to swim, snorkel, explore, or simply relax on the soft sand and soak in the incredible views.

Hawaiian green sea turtles, or honu, are one of the most sought-after marine animals in Hawaii. Makena Landing has a large population of honu, making this location a top snorkeling destination for visitors and locals.

Makena Landing’s coral formations and rocky terrain create the perfect habitat for honu. Sea turtles thrive here, feeding on the algae that grows on the coral and rocks. You’ll also love the underwater caves and caverns, where turtles like to relax.

Just a few miles from Lahaina town is Olowalu. With crystal-clear waters and incredible visibility, this spot is a must-see!

Olowalu is a low-key snorkeling location, perfect for relaxing and reconnecting with nature. However, keep in mind that Olowalu is more exposed than other Maui snorkeling spots, and it’s best to visit in the morning before afternoon trade winds pick up.

Green Sea Turtles and More

One of the highlights of snorkeling at Olowalu is the opportunity to see Hawaiian green sea turtles up close, as they like to gather at cleaning stations, where tiny fish remove algae from their shells.

Olowalu is also home to:

• Manta Rays – Spot these majestic creatures at their cleaning stations.
• Blacktip Reef Sharks – A nursery for these harmless sharks can be found here.
• Coral Reefs – Some coral heads in this area are hundreds of years old!

Located off the Southern coast of Maui is the Pu‘u Ola‘i cinder cone. Here, you’ll find one of Maui’s best kept snorkeling secrets. Pu‘u Ola‘i was created in the late 1700s by volcanic activity, leaving behind a unique, cone-shaped landscape.

A Place of Natural Beauty and Cultural Significance

Pu‘u Ola‘i is rich in Hawaiian history and culture, with remnants of old Hawaiian temples (hei’au) and other structures. The shores edge is lined with steep cliffs, making this one of the best Maui snorkeling spots accessible by boat.

A Thriving Underwater Wonderland

Pu‘u Ola‘i offers a fascinating snorkeling experience. The clear waters are home to a variety of Hawaiian marine life, including Hawaiian green sea turtles, eels, manta rays, and tropical fish.

Although these spots on Maui didn’t make it to the top of our list, they’re still worth checking out if you have extra time to explore!

Napili Bay : Napili Bay is perfect for both snorkeling and free diving, thanks to its clear waters and diverse marine life. Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure a parking spot.

Airport Beach (Kahekili Beach Park) : Airport Beach is a great snorkeling spot with easy access. After snorkeling, enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant!

La Perouse : If you’re hoping to spot spinner dolphins, then La Perouse is a must-visit! The best time to catch them leaping and spinning in the air is early in the morning.

Ulua: Ulua is located between Wailea Beach Resort and the Renaissance, this beach offers a chance to see a variety of tropical fish. This is a great spot if you’re short on time and looking for something easily accessible.

South Kihei: Kamaole Beach Park is divided into 3 beaches, Kamaole I, II, and III, features calmer waters with some coral formations, and plenty of space for kids to run around. Kamaole I is a local favorite for a fun and relaxing beach day.

Make the Most of Your Maui Snorkeling Experience

With so many incredible snorkeling spots on Maui, choosing just one can be a tough decision. If you’re looking for a stress-free and unforgettable adventure, consider booking a snorkeling tour with the Four Winds or the Maui Magic. Both of these vessels offer fun-filled, guided snorkeling trips, ensuring your safety and will take you to see the best marine life.

Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or experienced in the water, Maui’s snorkeling spots offer a fantastic opportunity to explore an underwater paradise. Which snorkeling spot are you most excited to visit?