Snorkeling Beaches on Maui

Location:

Honolua Bay, Maui, Hawaii

Recommended For:

Snorkeling enthusiasts, nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking a pristine marine experience on Maui’s northwest coast.

What we Love:

The crystal-clear morning waters, the vibrant coral reef teeming with tropical fish, and the bay’s status as a protected marine preserve that ensures a rich underwater ecosystem.

• Discover why Honolua Bay is one of Maui’s top snorkeling beaches, especially convenient for those staying on the island’s west side.
• Snorkel during the early morning hours for the best visibility, calmest water, and most vibrant marine life viewing.
• Explore the southern side of the bay, where the reef is most alive with colorful tropical fish and healthy coral.
• Benefit from the area’s Marine Preserve designation, which protects its aquatic life and maintains high water clarity.
• Enjoy the natural setting—there are no permanent structures, which preserves the untouched beauty of the bay.

Cost:

Free access; no rental facilities on site, so bring your own snorkeling gear. Limited parking available near the trailhead.

Best time to visit:

Early mornings for optimal visibility and calm water. Best months are summer and early fall when swells are low.

Local tips:

Wear reef-safe sunscreen, arrive early to secure a parking spot, and tread lightly—this is a protected area. Avoid visiting during high surf conditions for safety.

Distance:

Approximately 20 minutes north of Lahaina by car.

How to Get to Honolua Bay:

Drive north on Honoapiilani Highway (Hwy 30) past Kapalua. Park in the designated area and follow the short trail through the forest down to the bay.

Location:

Kamaole Beach Park III (Kama III), Kihei, Maui, Hawaii

Recommended For:

Snorkelers of all levels, families, beachgoers seeking less crowded spaces, and those looking for a full day of beachside leisure with facilities.

What we Love:

The easy beach access, on-duty lifeguards for added safety, and the abundance of vibrant fish species just offshore, especially along the right side of the bay.

• Swim and snorkel at Kama III, the least crowded of the three Kamaole Beach Parks, ideal for snorkeling and relaxation.
• Relax with beachside amenities like free parking, restrooms, grills, and picnic tables—perfect for a full beach day with ease.
• Enjoy one of Maui’s safest snorkeling beaches thanks to the presence of lifeguards on duty.
• Snorkel especially on the right-hand side of the beach where underwater visibility and marine activity tend to be best.
• Spot colorful reef dwellers including parrot fish, pufferfish, and tangs as you glide through the warm, clear waters.

Cost:

Free public access; no gear rentals on-site, so bring your own equipment or rent from nearby vendors.

Best time to visit:

Early morning for the calmest water and best visibility; avoid weekends for fewer crowds.

Local tips:

Arrive early to grab a good parking spot, bring reef-safe sunscreen, and pack a picnic to enjoy under the shaded grassy area after your snorkel session.

Distance:

Located in central Kihei, about 30 minutes from Kahului Airport by car.

How to Get to Kama III:

Drive south on South Kihei Road. Kamaole Beach Park III is just past the third traffic circle and across from the Hale Kamaole condos. Look for the marked beach access parking lot.

Romantic Snorkeling Beaches on Maui:

Location:

Kahekili Beach Park (Airport Beach), Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii

Recommended For:

Snorkelers, beach lovers, families, and anyone looking for a relaxed beach day with vibrant marine life and fewer crowds.

What we Love:

The thriving coral reef just offshore, the calm water entry ideal for all levels of snorkelers, and the historical nickname “Airport Beach” that adds a unique local flair.

• Snorkel at Kahekili Beach Park, also known as Airport Beach, one of Maui’s top snorkeling beaches located on the western shore.
• Spend the day in a cozy beach setting where the nearby reef teems with marine life and calm waters invite frequent snorkeling breaks.
• Observe a colorful underwater world just steps from shore—perfect for families and beginner snorkelers alike.
• Plan ahead and bring a beach umbrella or tent since shade is limited on this scenic stretch of sand.

Cost:

Free beach access and parking; bring your own snorkel gear and sun protection.

Best time to visit:

Mornings for clear water and smaller crowds; weekdays offer the most peaceful experience.

Local tips:

Use reef-safe sunscreen, stay aware of ocean conditions, and enjoy a beachside lunch at nearby picnic areas if you plan to stay all day.

Distance:

About 10 minutes north of Lahaina by car, near the Kaanapali resort area.

How to Get to Kahekili Beach Park:

Take Highway 30 north to Kaanapali Parkway, turn onto Kai Ala Drive, and follow signs to the public beach access lot. Facilities and showers are available onsite.

Location:

Slaughterhouse Beach (Mokule'ia), Maui, Hawaii

Recommended For:

Adventurous beachgoers, nature lovers, swimmers, and those seeking a scenic, less crowded spot on Maui’s northwest coast.

What we Love:

The secluded atmosphere free of shuttles or tour buses, the dramatic coastline perfect for photography, and the chance to spot green sea turtles beneath the waves.

• Find solitude at Slaughterhouse Beach, also known as Mokule'ia—a hidden gem accessible only by car with no public transit.
• Swim and play in the calmer summer waters, making this a great spot for beach games and relaxation.
• Stay alert to wave conditions, which vary by season—sometimes tranquil, sometimes powerful, always beautiful.
• Snorkel cautiously when conditions allow and observe marine life like green sea turtles, vibrant fish, and eels in their natural habitat.

Cost:

Free beach access; no rental shops or food vendors on-site—bring your own gear and supplies.

Best time to visit:

Summer months for calm water and safe swimming; mornings for fewer people and better wildlife spotting.

Local tips:

Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen—there are no facilities. Wear sturdy shoes for the stairway descent from the roadside parking area.

Distance:

About 10 minutes north of Kapalua, located just before Honolua Bay.

How to Get to Slaughterhouse Beach:

Take Honoapiilani Highway north past Kapalua. Look for roadside parking above the beach and descend the staircase carved into the cliffside to reach the sand.

Family-friendly Snorkeling Beaches on Maui:

Location:

Makena Landing Beach Park, South Maui, Hawaii

Recommended For:

Experienced snorkelers, adventure seekers, marine life enthusiasts, and visitors looking for a more challenging underwater experience.

What we Love:

The underwater cave perfect for skilled snorkelers, the diverse marine ecosystem teeming with species, and the unique chance to hear humpback whales during the season.

• Snorkel at Makena Landing Beach, a southern Maui favorite ideal for experienced swimmers due to its rocky shoreline.
• Explore an underwater cave that challenges even veteran snorkelers with its technical entry and exciting marine life.
• Dive into one of Maui’s most species-rich snorkeling spots—a paradise for those with good stamina and strong swimming skills.
• Listen for the calls of humpback whales during the winter months—Makena is a top location to hear these majestic mammals while underwater.

Cost:

Free beach access; bring your own snorkel gear. Limited parking is available, and restrooms are on-site.

Best time to visit:

Mornings for calmer water and better visibility. Visit during whale season (December to April) for an unforgettable acoustic experience.

Local tips:

This spot is not ideal for beginners. Wear reef shoes, use reef-safe sunscreen, and only enter the cave if you’re confident in your snorkeling abilities.

Distance:

Around 10 minutes south of Wailea by car.

How to Get to Makena Landing Beach:

Drive south on Makena Alanui Road from Wailea. Look for signage to Makena Landing; a small parking lot and restroom facilities are located near the shore.