6 Maui Snorkeling Spots Sheltered from North Swells

6 Maui Snorkeling Spots Sheltered from North Swells

Maui is a snorkeling paradise, known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. However, during the winter months, north swells can create challenging conditions for snorkeling at many popular locations. North swells can impact Honolua Bay, Kapalua Bay, Napili Bay, and Kahekili Beach Park. Fortunately, many excellent spots around the island tend to be protected from north swells, allowing you to explore Maui’s underwater wonders without worrying about rough waters. In this article, we’ll dive into six fantastic snorkeling spots that are typically sheltered from north swells.

**This is a general guide. Many different factors affect snorkeling conditions. Our Fun Specialists at Auntie Snorkel are always happy to help you find the best beach for you. So feel free to call or text us, or talk story with us when you come pick up your snorkel gear at our Kihei or Lahaina shops.**

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1. Kamaole Beach Parks

The Kamaole Beach Parks, comprised of three adjacent beaches—Kamaole I, II, and III—are popular snorkeling destinations in Kihei. These beaches are typically well-sheltered from north swells, making them ideal for families and novice snorkelers.

What to Expect:

The waters here are often calm, providing excellent visibility and easy access to underwater life. Snorkelers can encounter a variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs. The sandy entry points allow for comfortable access to the water.

Accessing Kamaole Beach Parks:

Each park has parking lots nearby, as well as amenities like restrooms and showers. Arriving early can help secure a good parking spot, especially during peak season.

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2. Ulua Beach

Ulua Beach, located in Wailea, is another excellent option for snorkelers seeking sheltered waters. This beach is known for its beautiful scenery and rich marine life, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

What to Expect:

Ulua Beach features a gently sloping sandy entry, leading snorkelers into warm, clear waters. The reef is home to a variety of fish species, including parrotfish and butterflyfish, as well as green sea turtles. The calm conditions make this spot especially suitable for beginners and families.

Accessing Ulua Beach:

The beach has ample parking and facilities such as picnic tables, restrooms, and showers. The picturesque surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxing beach day after your snorkeling adventure.

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3. Maluaka Beach

Maluaka Beach, in the Turtle Town area, is located near Makena and is known for its clear waters and abundance of sea turtles. This beach is sheltered from north swells, making it an ideal snorkeling location.

What to Expect:

Snorkelers at Maluaka can expect to see a rich variety of marine life, including vibrant coral reefs and playful turtles. The calm waters offer great visibility, allowing you to fully enjoy the underwater experience. The sandy entry makes it easy for snorkelers of all skill levels to access the water.

Accessing Maluaka Beach:

Maluaka Beach has parking available nearby, along with restrooms and picnic facilities. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a wonderful spot to relax after snorkeling.

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4. Ahihi-Kinau Marine Preserve

The Ahihi-Kinau Marine Preserve, located in South Maui, is a protected area known for its stunning underwater landscapes and diverse marine life. This preserve is sheltered from north swells, providing excellent snorkeling opportunities.

What to Expect:

Ahihi-Kinau features unique lava formations, vibrant coral gardens, and a variety of tropical fish. The clear waters make it easy to spot marine life, and the diverse habitats offer an exciting snorkeling experience. However, the rocky shoreline requires some care when entering the water.

Accessing Ahihi-Kinau:

Access to the preserve is via a small, paid parking area and a rocky path. Facilities are minimal, so it’s essential to bring your own snorkeling gear, snacks, and water. Arriving early is recommended due to limited parking.

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5. Olowalu Mile Marker 14

Olowalu Mile Marker 14, located just south of Lahaina, is another excellent snorkeling spot that remains sheltered from north swells. Known for its shallow coral maze that is the oldest reef on Maui, Olowalu is ideal for snorkelers seeking an interesting and educational experience.

What to Expect:

Snorkeling at Olowalu offers a chance to see schools of fish, sea turtles, and extensive coral formations. The shallow waters make it a safe spot for beginners, and the stunning underwater scenery makes it a favorite for more experienced snorkelers who want to venture out via kayak or paddle board as well.

Accessing Mile Marker 14:

The snorkeling spot can be accessed from the highway across from the Mile Marker 14, with parking available on the beach along the road. Be sure to check local regulations and conditions before entering the water, as it can be sensitive to ocean conditions.

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6. Black Rock (on Ka’anapali Beach)

Black Rock, located on the famous Ka’anapali Beach, is one of Maui’s most popular snorkeling destinations. This spot is well-sheltered from north swells, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to explore the underwater world.

What to Expect:

The rocky formations of Black Rock create an ideal habitat for marine life, allowing snorkelers to see colorful fish and sea turtles up close. The calm waters typically provide good visibility, and the picturesque backdrop of Ka’anapali Beach enhances the snorkeling experience.

Accessing Black Rock:

You can access Black Rock from the beach at Ka’anapali. There are public parking options at nearby Whaler’s Village and the Sheraton. Arriving early can help you secure parking, especially during peak season.

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How Northwest Swells Affect Maui’s Beaches

Northwest swells will wrap around Maui a little differently, affecting the beaches farther down Maui’s west shores more than a north swell will. Areas like Ka’anapali and Lahaina may experience stronger currents and elevated waves during northwest swells, making snorkeling challenging or even unsafe. Large swells from the northwest on the forecast should raise a flag for snorkelers to stay informed about ocean conditions before heading out.

In this case, snorkeling options may narrow down more to the Kihei, Wailea, and Makena area. You can always check in with Auntie Snorkel’s Fun Specialists for local guidance, and check our Weather & Waves forecast pages in addition to the webcams on our Beach Guides for up-to-the minute conditions.

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The Impact of More Rare West-Northwest Swells

While north and northwest swells are more common during the winter months, rare west-northwest swells can also affect Maui’s beaches, particularly those in West and South Maui. These swells can create challenging conditions across the board, possibly ruling out snorkeling for the duration of the swell event.

West-northwest swells in Maui can significantly affect the island’s west-facing shores, as they are not subject to as much shadowing from the nearby islands of Lanai and Kahoolawe, or the islands farther up the Hawaiian chain. Unlike north and northwest swells, which are often mitigated by landforms and must wrap around them, more westerly swells can travel more unobstructed into many west-facing shores, generating large waves and strong currents that impact popular snorkeling and beach areas. This happened most recently in January 2024, bringing large waves to beaches that don’t usually experience them, and causing sudden severe erosion.

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Final Thoughts

Maui offers a plethora of incredible snorkeling spots, even when winter north swells make some locations less favorable. From the beautiful waters of Kamaole Beach Parks to the stunning marine life at Ahihi-Kinau, you can find sheltered spots that allow you to explore the underwater world safely.

As always, prioritize safety, respect marine life, and check local conditions before diving in. With careful planning and the right information, you can enjoy the incredible snorkeling experiences that Maui has to offer, regardless of the season!