Olowalu Mile Marker 14 Beach Guide

Olowalu Mile Marker 14

Olowalu Mile Marker 14 is a popular snorkeling spot located on the Honoapiilani Highway (Route 30) on the lower west coast of Maui. It is named after its location, which is near Mile Marker 14 along the highway. Olowalu is known for its vibrant underwater ecosystem, including coral reefs and marine life.

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Directions and Distance from Auntie Snorkel 

• https://maps.app.goo.gl/UqDD7FCMz7oHTLWi9
• Mile Marker 14 is just a 10-15 minute drive south from Auntie Snorkel Lahaina via the Lahaina Bypass and Honoapiilani Highway (Route 30). 

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Parking and Access

• You’ll see a sandy beach area right beside the highway across from mile marker 14.
• Be careful to pull off the highway onto hard-packed sand areas, because there are a couple of very loose sand areas where cars get stuck very frequently.
• Park so that you’re clear of the highway and not blocking anyone, get out, and you’re on the beach!

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Facilities and Amenities

• There are no facilities or amenities here. It’s just you and the ocean.
• Please be mindful to pack out everything you bring in, and maybe even be so kind as to pick up anyone else’s opala (trash) that you see. 
• The nearby Olowalu General Store area has some local vendors and restaurant options.  

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What to Bring

• Bring what you need for an enjoyable reef exploration experience! Auntie recommends your snorkel gear, floatation, a GoPro, reef-safe sunscreen, and snacks. Also, rent a stand-up paddle board for even more exploration in the area!

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Snorkeling and Surf

• Olowalu Mile Marker 14 is celebrated for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. The underwater environment here is teeming with marine life, making it a popular destination for underwater exploration. As such, snorkelers can expect to encounter colorful coral formations, tropical fish, sea turtles, and various other species.
• Always snorkel with floatation and a buddy, and be aware of how far you are from shore at all times.
• Waves can pick up here, especially during summer south swells. However, this is not a surf spot due to the very shallow water over lots of precious reef. Better surf spots are Ukumehame + 1000 Peaks to the south and Launiupoko to the north.

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Environment and Seasonal Variation

• Olowalu is a remarkable place, partly due to its rich biological history. Most notably, it is one of the Hawaiian Islands’ “Mother Reefs,” with some of the corals in this area estimated to be around 500 years old. Coral polyps released at Olowalu make their way to other reefs in West Maui and, in some cases, journey all the way to the neighboring islands of Lanai and Moloka’i, essentially seeding new coral colonies.
• Visitors are urged to aid in conservation of Olowalu’s natural beauty by not touching or damaging the coral, not collecting or harassing marine life, and not fishing or spearfishing in the area.
• Wind can pick up here in the afternoon, if not earlier, so get an early start for the best conditions. Also, winter months bring less swells to this side of the island, making for more calm snorkeling days. 

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Remember to respect the natural beauty and environment of Olowalu by leaving no trace and following any posted rules and regulations. Olowalu Mile Marker 14 is a beautiful spot for snorkeling, offering a chance to immerse yourself in Maui’s underwater world. It is crucial to be respectful of the marine environment, practice responsible snorkeling, and prioritize safety to ensure an enjoyable and memorable experience at this ecologically important site.