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Fun Specialist Approved! Maui’s Best Beaches & Activities

By March 10, 2025 No Comments

Fun Specialist Approved - Maui's Best Beaches and Activities Fun Specialist Approved! Maui’s Best Beaches & Activities

Welcome to Maui, where the beaches are stunning, the ocean is calling, and your adventure starts the moment your toes hit the sand! At Auntie Snorkel, we don’t just rent out top-notch beach gear—we live for the island life. Our team, aka your personal Fun Specialists, spends every spare moment exploring Maui’s best beaches and activities, and we love sharing our favorite beaches and activities with our guests. Whether you’re searching for the perfect snorkeling cove, a prime spot to catch some waves, or just a chill beach to soak up the sun, we’ve got the inside scoop. We know this island like the back of our sandy hands, and we’re always happy to chat, swap stories, and point you toward the best spots for an unforgettable day. So grab your gear, slap on some reef-safe sunscreen, and let’s dive into our team’s top recommendations!


Mark and Gwen in Kihei Shop Mark & Gwen
Original Fun Specialists & Auntie Snorkel Owners

If we had to pick a favorite beach (which is so hard in Maui), Kamaole Beach Park 1 would be at the top of our list. It’s got everything we look for—soft golden sand, calm waves for the kids to splash in, and some of the best sunset views on the island. We love that it’s family-friendly but never feels too crowded, and the snorkeling right off the beach is actually pretty amazing. Plus, it’s just a short stroll from Auntie Snorkel, so it’s our go-to spot for a quick beach break or an easy family beach day.

As parents of four, we’re always looking for activities that are just as fun for the kids as they are for us, and Calypso’s Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkel Tour totally nails it! It’s got everything we love: epic snorkeling, a super spacious boat (because, let’s be real, four kids = needing space), and even a waterslide to keep everyone entertained. Molokini’s crystal-clear water is unreal, and Turtle Town? Guaranteed sea turtle sightings—what’s not to love? Plus, with breakfast, lunch, and all the gear included, it’s an easy, stress-free adventure that lets us kick back and actually enjoy the day.


Scott - Fun Specialist Scott
Fun Specialist since 2018

I want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to all our customers who continue to come visit and are helping us rebuild after the Lahaina fire. Your support means the world to us!

One of my favorite spots to bring visiting friends and family is Olowalu, which boasts some of the oldest reefs on the island. It’s a peaceful haven with calm waters and rarely any wind or waves.  The shallow waters make it especially comforting for those who may not have snorkeled in a while. It is a true gem here in Maui.

Before the fire, my favorite activity was the Atlantis submarine, exploring the underwater world in comfort and safety. I look forward to the day we will see them again.  However, right now, my top suggestion is Air Maui’s 45-minute West Maui/Molokai helicopter tour. You’ll get to see stunning waterfalls and the tallest sea cliffs in the world. Plus they offer this tour with the doors off, which is a blast!

Mahalo for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing you soon!


Dave - Fun Specialist Dave
Fun Specialist since 2021

If I had to pick a favorite beach, it’s gotta be snorkeling at Ulua Beach. This place brings the best luck when it comes to spotting my favorite ocean creature—the Hawaiian octopus! I usually see one every three or four trips, and I’m amazed each time.

My favorite Maui activity? Exploring the Road to Hana. There’s nothing better than cruising through the jungle, swimming in the waterfalls, and hanging at the lovely beaches in Hana. It’s a long adventure, but totally worth it for the views and all the awesome spots to stop along the way.


Callen - Fun Specialist Callen
Fun Specialist since 2021

When it comes to extended beach hangs, any spot with excellent snorkeling nearby is a win for me. Which means you really can’t go wrong with nearly any sandy beach along Maui’s Southern (West facing) shoreline. Favorites are hard! Going early is key for the best weather and typically the calmest seas. I’ve had fantastic snorkels at the Kamaole beaches in Kihei as well as Wailea and Makena spots like Ulua and Maluaka. I like to go slow and keep an open mind for what I might see. Turtles are always appreciated, but I’m just as stoked to find a Freckled Snake Eel or something else I didn’t expect to see!

For activities, I always recommend getting out on a boat. I love to spend as much time in and on the water as possible, so snorkel tours are my number one choice, but cruising on a boat for a whale watch or evening trip affords you the ability to see Maui from a different perspective and you never know what kind of marine life you might find!


Sarah - Fun Specialist Sarah
Fun Specialist since 2023

Maluaka Beach is my go-to—it’s got a little something for everyone. Families with kids will love the soft sand and calm water, and couples can just kick back and soak up the sun. There’s plenty of space to relax, nice shady spots, and even good facilities. Plus, it’s an awesome place to snorkel or just float around and enjoy the ocean.

For activities, you can’t beat a whale watch this time of year. Whether you hop on a big catamaran, a sailboat, or a raft, it’s the best time to see whales jumping and mama whales hanging out with their babies. Definitely one of the coolest things to do in Maui!


Jean - Fun Specialist - Snorkeling Jean
Fun Specialist since 2023

I love to recommend Kahekili Beach Park to visitors because it’s one of those hidden gems that has it all—beautiful sandy shoreline, easy snorkeling right off the beach, and way fewer crowds than some of the more famous spots. It’s got plenty of underwater wonders for all levels, and there’s lots of space to just relax and enjoy a chill beach day.

I always tell people to check out the Te Au Moana Luau at the Marriott in Wailea because it’s got the best of everything—great food, awesome entertainment, and a front-row seat to a killer sunset. The dancers and musicians are amazing, and the fire knife dancers? Next level. Plus, the mai tais keep coming, the vibes are all-time, and you’re eating under the stars in Wailea—hard to beat that!


Burton - Fun SpecialistBurton
Fun Specialist since 2023

If I had to pick a favorite spot and Maui activity, they’re together at Kaanapali Point, right in front of the Kaanapali Alii, because it’s the best place to skimboard and surf (my favorite activities). You can do both in the same spot, which is pretty rare.

The waves here can be any size and still be fun, whether you’re catching a little shore break on a skimboard or paddling out for a surf session. It’s my go-to for a solid beach day with plenty of action.


Come See Us Soon!

Maui is packed with incredible beaches and endless ways to enjoy them, and we’re here to help you make the most of every salty, sun-soaked moment. As Fun Specialists, we take our job seriously (but not too seriously). Whether you’re floating over vibrant reefs, riding the waves, or just lounging under a breezy palm tree, we’ll make sure you have the right gear and the best local tips to make it epic. So swing by Auntie Snorkel, get to know our awesome crew, and let’s get you set up for an unforgettable Maui adventure. See you on the sand!

About Auntie Snorkel

Auntie Snorkel shop has been serving Maui’s fun seekers since 1985. We're the original South Maui Snorkel Shop. When I bought the shop 10 years ago from Auntie, we decided to keep the name. The name "Auntie" is a term of respect here in Hawaii. I'm living my dream. I get to meet awesome people from all over the world and share with them my love and knowledge of this magical island that I get to call home. We know all the spots. I have lived here since 2001. We're the true definition of a family owned and operated shop. I answer the phones and work the shop along with my family. When you shop with us you're supporting my ohana and for that I thank you!! Why go anywhere else? We're the friendliest, fastest, cheapest and our location is the most epic! Mahalo and Aloha”. ~Mark Noble (Owner & Maui Fun Expert)