Aloha Marci!

Snorkeling is one of the best things to do in Maui. Warm water, colorful reefs, sea turtles, and more – does it get any better?

Curious about snorkeling on Maui? Here’s all you need to know.

Where To Snorkel on Maui 🐟

South Maui – Kihei, Wailea, and Makena – has the best snorkeling on Maui. You can also find great snorkeling in West Maui, near Olowalu, Ka'anapali, and Kapalua.

Our favorite South Maui snorkel spots are Po’olenalena/Changs Beach, Ulua Beach, and Keawakapu Beach.

Po’olenalena/Changs – This beach is located just past Wailea. The best snorkeling here is on the southern point, fronting the Makena Surf condos.

The reef here is incredibly healthy, and the water is crystal clear. If you’re lucky, you’ll also see some Hawaiian green sea turtles. You can access the reef by swimming from the sand at Po’olenalena or from the sandy cove just south of Makena Surf.

This spot is recommended for strong swimmers or those with snorkeling experience, as you have to swim to reach the reef.

Ulua Beach – Ulua Beach is a great snorkel spot for beginners! This beach is located on the northern end of Wailea, directly fronting Wailea Elua Village.

Start at the north end of the beach for the best snorkeling. The reef at Ulua starts immediately offshore, so beginners can snorkel in just a few feet of water. The snorkeling gets better the further out you go, and you’ll often see advanced snorkelers and swimmers out on the point.

At Ulua, you can see red pencil urchins, schools of yellow Oama, and sea turtles. Sometimes, eagle rays and manta rays even cruise through.

Keawakapu Beach – Keawakapu Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Maui. For the best snorkeling, stick to the point on the beach's northern end – just in front of the Mana Kai.

Similar to Ulua Beach, beginners can enjoy snorkeling just off the beach. Adept snorkelers can swim out along the reef and enjoy great snorkeling all the way down to the Kihei Surfside.

Here, you can see plenty of reef fish, healthy corals, and – you guessed it – sea turtles!

Snorkel Tours ⛵️

If you prefer a guided tour, there are plenty of options in South Maui.

You can take a boat tour from Kihei Boat Ramp or Ma'alaea Harbor. Another tour leaves directly from the sand at Maluaka Beach in Makena. Boat tours usually visit the world-famous Molokini Crater – with bonus stops in Makena.

Alternatively, kayak tours are offered throughout Wailea and Makena. Kayak tours usually stick to the reefs closer to shore, like Turtle Town.

When to Snorkel on Maui 🕐

Snorkeling is best when the wind and waves are calm. Mornings on Maui usually yield the best conditions. Afternoons tend to get windy, and visibility goes way down.

It’s also important to keep your eyes on the surf. High surf can ruin visibility, cause strong currents, and make conditions dangerous. South Maui can be affected by large south swells in the summer and occasional west swells in the winter.

And lastly, avoid snorkeling in murky water. Murky water can have bacteria from runoff, and it’s no fun snorkeling when you can’t see anything.

Snorkel Gear 🤿

If you take a boat or kayak tour, all the necessary gear will be provided.

If you plan to snorkel on your own, you can rent gear from local outfitters. There’s no need to buy gear – unless you want to use it in the future!

Snorkel Tips 🏊

Here are some of our top snorkel tips:

● Always snorkel with a buddy!

● Know your limits.

● Avoid snorkeling in murky water.

● Do not touch or step on the reef.

● Do not touch sea turtles or other marine life.

● Protect your skin – use reef-safe sunscreen or a rashguard.

● Check conditions before entering the water.

● Have fun!

Ready to hit the water? Remember, Ali’i Resorts is your go-to outlet for top-rated snorkel tours and stays near Maui’s best snorkel spots!

We hope to see you here on the Valley Isle soon. Happy travels!

Warmest Aloha,

The Ali'i Resorts Ohana