Ahihi Bay Snorkeling and Beach Guide
Ahihi Bay, inside the Ahihi-Kinau Marine Preserve, is a protected area located on the southwest coast of Maui. As Maui’s first marine preserve, this spot is a snorkeling gem, with stunning coastal landscapes, diverse and plentiful marine life, and unique geological features.
Directions and Distance from Auntie Snorkel
- The Ahihi-Kinau Marine Preserve is in far South Maui, just before the end of the road at La Perouse. To reach this spot, you’ll drive approximately 20-25 minutes south from Auntie Snorkel Kihei.
Parking and Access
- From Makena Road, turn right at the sign for Ahihi-Kinau Parking – Kanahena & Cove. Presently, the parking lot is paved and has a $5 parking fee that you pay via credit card at the parking meter. After paying, remember to put your receipt on the dash of your car.
- To access Ahihi Bay, walk the gravel path at the far end of the parking lot. You will walk over a cattle guard next to marine preserve signs to begin your walk. Once at the water, walk the length of the rocky beach to the huge black rock most of the way down the beach. Just in front of this rock formation there is a ribbon of sand that not only makes entry easy, but also protects the natural formations in the area.
Facilities and Amenities
- Ahihi Bay is relatively undeveloped and lacks amenities except for portable toilets and garbage cans. Accordingly, visitors should plan to bring their own supplies for a water exploration day.
- There is no lifeguard at this spot. Therefore, be a responsible snorkeler with a buddy and floatation!
What to Bring
- Bring your water exploration kit! Auntie recommends snorkeling gear, a GoPro, floatation, a wetsuit, and snacks.
Snorkeling and Surf
- Ahihi Bay offers some of the best snorkeling on Maui. Recent lava flows and coral formations yield crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life create a captivating underwater world for snorkelers to enjoy.
- The marine preserve has rich and diverse marine life. Unquestionably, snorkelers will enjoy the area’s colorful coral formations, tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine species.
- If the surf is elevated, snorkeling may not be safe that day. Always exercise caution, and if in doubt, don’t go out!
- There is no surfing at this spot, nor is it suitable for stand-up paddle boarding.
Environment and Seasonal Variation
- The Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve is a protected area, and visitors should follow guidelines for responsible tourism and environmental preservation. Particularly, it is essential to respect the fragile ecosystem and avoid touching or disturbing marine life and coral formations.
- Summer south swells are most likely to bring waves and impede underwater viewing conditions, or even be dangerous. Conversely, winter will have more flat, calm water days.
- Ahihi Bay is calm and beautiful most mornings year round. Later in the day, it is common for the wind to become strong and gusty, so this area is best early.
Remember to respect the natural beauty and environment of Ahihi-Kinau Marine Preserve by leaving no trace and following any posted rules and regulations. A visit to the Ahihi-Kinau Marine Preserve is an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Maui in a relatively undeveloped and pristine setting.
