Molokini remains at the top of the list of “must see” destinations on Maui. The snorkeling is some of the best in all of Hawaii and has been voted as a top reef snorkel site. Even the back side of the crater is considered to be one the 10 best dive spots in the world.

Located just a few miles off Maui’s rugged Makena coast, lies the  sunken volcanic crater of Molokini. Only three sheltered volcanic calderas still exist, with Molokini being one of them. Here the crystal-clear tropical waters are home to an array of fish and other unique species of marine-life that all seek shelter inside this beautiful crater.

Due to the protective shelter the crater provides, snorkeling at Molokini is extremely safe. The trusty crew on the Four Winds II is always available, both inside and outside the water, to assist and make sure you get the most out of your snorkel experience.

How can you talk about the best snorkeling spots in Maui and leave out Molokini Crater? That’s simply impossible.
Around 3 miles away from the south shore of Maui, you will find Molokini Crater, which is an islet of an underwater volcano. Shaped like a crescent moon, this place can be marveled at from afar, but you will miss out on what the water surrounding it has to offer. From the common tropical fish to more distinct creatures like manta rays, butterfly fish, moray eels, and even reef sharks, the brilliant life underwater will simply blow you away.

When snorkeling Maui’s Molokini, you can expect to find a sunken volcanic crater that drops off into the ocean. Molokini Crater consists of coral reef, sand patches, and rock boulder. Do not expect any sort of sand or beach area.  Molokini Crater has an abundance of marine life and lots of tropical fish, which is quite impressive! Molokini’s unique crescent shape provides a natural barrier from waves and currents. Snorkeling Molokini is pleasant, the water is typically clear and calm. It is a safe-haven for all kinds of smaller fish and is particularly suitable for beginner to intermediate snorkelers. Molokini Crater is located a few miles off Maui’s rugged Makena coast and best reached by boat. Both of Maui Classic Charters vessels – Maui Four Winds II and Maui Magic have Maui snorkeling tours to Molokini Crater.

Be it snorkeling, scuba diving or SNUBA, whale watching, bird watching or simply witnessing an incredible phenomenon of nature, the Molokini Crater has everything, all in one place.

Located in the middle of the ocean, this magnificent crescent-shaped Crater rises high above the surface of the water and provides a stunning view that is unlike any other place in this world.

Snorkel Molokini Crater!

In order to get to Molokini, you will have to book a boat ride. Upon arriving at the destination, you can dive straight into the water to say hello to the flourishing marine life. Or take a seat on the deck and drink in the impressive view that lies ahead of you. Either way, make sure to check out the following spots in Molokini.

• Tako Flats – A sand channel that contains lots of coral heads. You are likely to observe octopuses and manta rays here.
• Middle Reef – This is where almost every species of tropical Hawaiian fish can be easily found.
• Shark Condos – Located near the left end of the Crater, Shark Condos is where you will find harmless reef sharks if you can plunge deep down (about 150 feet) below the water surface.
• The Back Side – As the name suggests, the Back Side refers to the rear wall of the Crater. This spot on the Maui snorkeling map is a must-visit for skilled divers and adventure seekers who love drifts and diving off steep walls.
• Edge of the World – This refers to a specific spot on the outer side of the Crater that is constantly under a shadow. This makes it a unique spot as the constant shadow brings out distinctive species of marine life that cannot be seen elsewhere.

We are currently working on an interactive map for the must-see spots within the Molokini Crater. So make sure to check back soon.

Located just a few miles off Maui’s rugged Makena coast, lies the sunken volcanic crater of Molokini. Molokini 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 the best snorkeling spots 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.

Coral Gardens is one of the best snorkeling spots on Maui. Whether you’re looking for colorful tropical fish or a chance to swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles, Coral Gardens has it all. Located just south of Olowalu and fronting the gorgeous West Maui Mountains, this lush environment allows marine life to thrive.

Coral Gardens is a unique, beautiful natural reef formation that is in a protected bay, on the west-side of Maui.  It is home to many Hawaiian Green sea turtles and hundreds of species of fish. Coral Gardens is located near the coastline, along the Pali Highway Mountain Pass before Olowalu. Cliff lines surrounding this cove protecting it from wind and rough seas. This snorkel spot is only safely accessed by boat. It is truly special, because of what lies beneath the surface… the coral formations here and marine life (including turtles) are SPECTACULAR!

With only a few boats at this location, this snorkel spot is more elite and private. With visibility reaching 40 feet, it’s crystal-clear waters and large coral heads make the views for snorkeling breathtaking. Check out Coral Gardens on the afternoon trip on the Four Winds!

Coral Gardens is a true winner and deserves to be on the list of top 10 Maui snorkeling spots! Want to witness what the underwater world really looks like? Book a snorkeling trip to Coral Gardens.

Located on the coast of West Maui, the crystal blue water in Coral Gardens is home to abundant aquatic life. Needless to say, this predominantly comprises of coral reef formations that are brimming with various species of brightly colored fish as well as green sea turtles.

When visiting the Coral Gardens, you get to observe a wide variety of tropical marine life that includes Angel Fish and Parrot Fish as well as crabs, octopuses, eels and even a glimpse of the humpback whales if you are lucky.

Snorkel Maui at Coral Gardens and discover fabulous coral formations. Coral Gardens is in naturally protected bay, proving excellent for Maui snorkeling, with limited winds and ocean currents. Coral Gardens boasts Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, colorful tropical fish and occasionally endangered Hawaiian Monk Seals. Coastal Living Magazine listed Coral Gardens in their “World’s Top 10 Snorkel Sites.” This is one of the best Maui snorkeling spots, with visibility reaching 40 feet!  This special Maui snorkel spot is only accessible by boat. Both of Maui Classic Charters vessels – Maui Four Winds II and Maui Magic have Maui snorkeling tours to Coral Gardens.

With a pristine oceanfront overlooking a picturesque landscape, the Coral Gardens are one of the best places for snorkeling in Maui. Suitable for all family members, here you can swim besides Hawaiian green sea turtles and explore numerous species of colorful tropical fish. Needless to say, you will also get a chance to observe giant coral reef formations that will simply take your breath away!

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.

Honolua Bay is located in the north western portion of Maui (approximately 20 miles north of Lahaina). The bay is surrounded by rocky cliffs that help protect the bay from the wind, resulting in calm water. The center of the bay is divided in two by an old boat ramp. You will notice darker sand and rock at the shallow end of the bay, but the further out you swim in, the sand becomes white and you will see beautiful coral reefs and marine life.

There is a famous surfing spot far out to the right of the bay. When the surf is pumping, you may experience some murkiness in the water from the commotion. The wave is beautiful and is quite a site to see! You’ll also get a view of the beautiful island of Moloka`i.

Some of the marine life you may see at Honolua Bay includes: Wrasse, parrot fish, butterfly fish, trigger fish, box fish (my personal favorite), snapper, eels, turtles, etc!

Swim with caution at this location. There are no lifeguards on duty and there are no showers or bathrooms. You usually will see a porter potty or two at the entrance. Parking is very limited and proceed with caution around the curves of the road, as people tend to speed.

Plenty of tropical reef fish, green sea turtles, and large coral formations make Honolua Bay a fantastic location for snorkeling in Maui. The bay features a depth of up to 30 feet, so experienced or more adventurous divers can explore farther areas as well. The fact that locals have fought hard to protect the place from modern developments proves the uniqueness of Honolua Bay. It is a real paradise for snorkelers that will make you yearn to visit it time and again.

Consisting of large, round rocks inhabited by flora and fauna as well as tropical fish and coral reefs where the rocks dip into the sea, Honolua Bay is one of the most majestic places in Maui. From manta rays, octopi and butterfly fish to Moorish idols, yellow tang, and several other exotic sea creatures, you are sure to make some new friends in the underwater world when you visit Honolua Bay.

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.

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.

This snorkel spot will not dissappoint! Turtle Town is located on the southren coastline, between Black Sand beach and Nahuna Point. It is almost impossible not to see a turtle when you snorkel at Turtle Town. Hawaiian green sea turtles feed off the algaea on the rocks that are closer to the shoreline. The sea turtles are part of the Endangered Species Act, which has helped their population flourish.

Turtle Town is best accessible by taking a Maui boat tour and is known for some the best snorkeling in Maui.  If you are looking for the best Maui snorkel tour, make sure you check out the Maui Magic!

Turtle Town is a special Maui snorkeling spot! If you want to see Hawaiian green sea turtles, Turtle Town offers some of the best snorkeling in Maui. Turtle Town is a beautiful Maui snorkeling spot with unique lava formations that attract marine life, especially resident Hawaiian green sea turtles. Turtle Town waters are calm and protected from winds. Turtle are graceful in the water, even if they can be massive creatures growing up to four feet across and weigh as much as 400 pounds! It’s important to respect the turtles at Turtle Town, because Hawaiian green sea turtles are an endangered species. One of the best ways to get to Turtle Town is by boat.Maui Classic Charters’ vessel Maui Magic has snorkeling tours toTurtle Town or Makena Landing.

As is evident from the name, Turtle Town is the ultimate place to go if you or your little ones want to see green sea turtles up close. The place is usually accessible by a boat tour and is packed with tourists. So, book your snorkeling trip in advance if you don’t want to miss the chance.

Your snorkeling adventure in Maui won’t be complete until you visit Turtle Arches. Located near White Rock beach along the southern coast, Turtle Arches is a series of underwater lava formations that offer impressive views of abundant marine life. As the name suggests, this snorkeling site is noted for the frequent sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles that visitors enjoy on a trip to this area. The underwater rocks have become home to these four-flapped swimmers so if you or your kids are keen to swim with turtles, make sure to visit Turtle Arches.

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 beach of Ka`anapali and is fronting the Sheraton Hotel. You will love the 3 miles of white sand that Ka`anapali Beach has to offer. Enjoy walking the boardwalk, shopping at Whalers Village, bar hopping at the different resort pool bars, and of course, eating!

Black Rock is not only known for great Maui snorkeling but also as a jump-off location. Here you will get to snorkel with beautiful tropical fish and enjoy the crystal, clear blue water and beautiful white-colored sand. You may even spot a turtle or two! The depth is approximately 7 ft where the coral begins and extends about 25 feet in depth around the rock point.

Located on Ka’anapali Beach, the Black Rock is where you can quench your thirst for adventure as well as relax and unwind at the same time. Although the name sounds like it’s some thrilling cliff-diving spot, the place actually features not-so-large rocks. However, there is a whole universe of aquatic life thriving around these rocks. The weather at Black Rock is always favorable, and you can easily swim your way around the edges to find green sea turtles and swarms of fish like the hawk Fish, Surgeon Fish, Neede Fish, and even the Humuhumunukunukuapua’a, which is the state fish of Hawaii.

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.

If you are short of time or unwilling to travel more for snorkeling, Airport Beach – also called the Kahekili Beach Park, is a promising place to visit. Besides snorkeling, you can also treat yourself at the nearby restaurants or bring a picnic basket along for additional fun.

There are numerous underwater marvels to admire, but the green sea turtle or honu, as it is locally called is one of the most sought-after creatures that visitors want to witness up close. And their large population in Makena Landing is what makes the place a popular snorkeling spot in Maui.

The coral formations and rocky underwater terrain provide the ideal habitat for these sea creatures. They love feeding on the algae that grows on these surfaces. Plus, there are several caves, arches, and caverns where they can rest in solitude. So, if you are diving under the cool blue water at Makena Landing, make sure to peek inside nooks and crannies to say hello to the Green sea turtles (in case a bunch of them don’t greet you first).

Also known as Five Graves or Five Caves, Makena Landing is one of the finest places for snorkeling in Maui. Featuring diverse topography and plenty of sea caves, the natural landscape of this area makes it the ideal spot for divers to show-off their diving skills. Plunging deep into the water at the Makena Beach will bring you in close proximity to lots of brightly colored tropical fish as well as several small reef sharks (don’t worry, they are harmless).

Hawaiian green sea turtle, or honu, is 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.

Drive a few miles away from the Lahaina town and you reach one of the best snorkeling spots in Maui. With pristine water that offers great visibility, Olowalu Beach is where you will be thrilled to see spectacular rock formations and giant coral gardens lining the seabed.

Olowalu is quiet spot where you can truly relax and rejuvenate and have fun with lots of tiny reef fish. However, note that the Olowalu Beach is a bit more exposed than other snorkeling spots in Maui. So, if you want to visit this tranquil beach, it’s recommended to do so in the morning as the afternoon winds tend to get stronger and a bit unsafe for diving underwater.

Snorkeling Maui at Olowalu, also known as Turtle Reef, is a treat! Olowalu is one of Maui’s best snorkel locations to encounter green sea turtles. Green sea turtles congregate at ‘cleaning stations’ where small fish eat alge from their shells. Two amazing encounters that Maui’s snorkelers can anticipate are the manta rays and black tip nursery sharks. Both harmless species, snorkeling with them is an adventure not to be missed! Turtle Reef is home to hundreds of manta rays and a nursery for the black tip reef sharks. If the oceanlife isn’t enough to entice snorkeling Maui, the reef itself features large coral heads, some dating hundreds of years old.  Olowalu is protected from trade winds, making Olowalu generally calm and clear, and boasting visibility to 120 feet! While Olowalu can be reached from shore, the waters are quite shallow and the best snorkeling is several hundred feet offshore. Maui Classic Charters’ vessel Maui Magic has Maui snorkeling tours to Olowalu

Olowalu is the largest and most flourishing reef in Maui. Long stretches of epic coral reef formations brimming with an abundance of tropical sea creatures, this place will make you want to build your own home underwater. Snorkeling in Olowalu means you will get an exclusive chance to observe a nursery of blacktip reef sharks as well as a cleaning station featuring manta rays. Since the place is not affected by trade winds, it is the ideal place to visit on windy afternoons when many other snorkeling sites are closed off.

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 looking to relax and reconnect 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 incredible 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!

Napili Bay is not only great for snorkeling but also a feasible location to practice free diving. Head here early morning to avoid the crowds and easily grab a parking spot at the nearby carpark.

In case you are unable to visit Turtle Town, then Honekeana Bay is the next best option if your main objective is to view the Hawaiian turtles. However, remember that this bay is open, so snorkeling can be quite unsafe during the winter season (due to the swell).

Snorkeling Maui off the coast of Pu‘u Ola’i cinder cone is another of the best Maui snorkeling locations. The Maui snorkel location is named after the land formation, Pu’u Ola’i. Pu’u Ola’i was formed in the late 1700’s when volcano activity erupted, dramatically spewing lava from within to form a mounded cone shape. This area is rich in Hawaiian history and culture, with remnants of old Hawaiian temples (hei’au) and other structures. The shore edge has shear cliffs and are unstable, making this Maui snorkeling spot best accessed by boat. Underwater snorkeling is a great a wonder as the Pu’u Ola’i. As you are snorkeling Maui Pu’u Ola’i observe Hawaiian green sea turtles, eels, manta rays, and an abundance of fish. Maui Classic Charters’ vessel Maui Magic has snorkeling tours to Pu‘u Ola’i.

Pu’u Olai is a truly unique place to snorkel in Maui. It is basically a cinder cone or a type of volcano that is visible from almost every place in West Maui. Situated in the ocean, the base of this cone is home to several species of sea creatures. You can find the Hawaiian sea turtles, eels, manta rays and many other types of tropical fish.

Rising almost 360 feet high in the air, this lava rock is famous amongst adventure seekers looking for more thrilling activities after snorkeling. This is because in addition to underwater activities like snorkeling and SNUBA diving, you can also go hiking in this area. Several trails lead to the summit of Pu’u Olai. So, if you are up for hiking, gear up and enjoy the scenic beauty as you climb atop this steep cone.

La Perouse is one of the most prized places on the Maui snorkeling map, and the reason is quite simple: a boat tour to La Perouse offers the highest chances of witnessing the playful Maui spinner dolphins. Try to visit this region early in the morning if you want to see an entire pod of dolphins spinning in the air and performing gymnastics on the water surface.

Ulua and Mokapu are two relatively small beaches situated between the Wailea Marriott and the Renaissance. Featuring great visibility and a wide range of different species of tropical fish, both Ulua and Mokapu are a good place to snorkel. This place on the Maui snorkeling map is where novice scuba divers usually practice their moves. The main draw of this region is a string of reefs between the two beaches. One end is great for snorkeling whereas the other is only accessible to scuba divers.

Boasting abundant marine life and family-friendly beaches, South Kihei is a region where you can have endless fun with your little ones in a safe yet great environment. Rocky cliffs lined with coral formations border the Kamaole Beach Park. This park is divided into three zones – Kamaole I, II, and III. Favored amongst the locals, Kamaole I is where you can let the kids run around freely and enjoy other beach activities.