Aerial view of the Olowalu area in Maui, Hawai’i.
What are the best snorkeling spots in West Maui right now?
As the open areas of West Maui gradually welcome back visitors, it’s common to wonder what snorkeling spots in West Maui we can safely and respectfully enjoy, in light of the current wildfire recovery process.
Unfortunately, the fires have impacted some of our absolute favorite spots. We recommend refraining from entering the water between Launiupoko Beach Park and Hanakao’o Beach Park (a.k.a. Canoe Beach), until officials complete further marine quality testing and the people of Lahaina see more recovery.
The great news is that many of the best snorkeling spots in West Maui are open, safe, and respectful for recreation. Here are Auntie’s top picks for enjoying some time in the water during your West Maui stay.
View of Honolua Bay in Maui, Hawai’i from above.
#1. Honolua Bay
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- Location: Click here for directions from Auntie Snorkel Lahaina.
- (Be advised that you will have to drive the Lahaina bypass road to reach Northwest Maui, which is within sight of Lahaina. If you do not wish to pass this way, just scroll down to make #5 on this list your #1.)
- Why You’ll Love It: Snorkelers in the know consider Honolua Bay to be one of the top snorkeling spots in West Maui. Its clear waters, healthy coral formations, and abundant marine life make it a haven for snorkelers. The bay is part of the Honolua-Mokule’ia Bay Marine Life Conservation District, which helps protect its delicate ecosystem.
- What to Bring: Bring what you can carry for an enjoyable bay exploration experience. Auntie recommends snorkel gear, a GoPro, floatation, reef-safe sunscreen, and snacks.
View of Mokule’ia Bay, also known as Slaughterhouse Beach.
#2. Mokule’ia Bay (Slaughterhouse Beach)
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- Location: Click here for directions from Auntie Snorkel Lahaina.
- (Be advised that you will have to drive the Lahaina bypass road to reach Northwest Maui, which is within sight of Lahaina. If you do not wish to pass this way, just scroll down to make #5 on this list your #1.)
- Why You’ll Love It: Mokule’ia is one of the lesser known top snorkeling spots in West Maui. Explore along the rocky edges of this beautiful bay, being careful to stay inside the bay to avoid strong currents. Here you’ll find relative seclusion and protection from winds. Note that there is a long staircase to access the beach which, coupled with limited parking, keeps the crowd low.
- What to Bring: Bring everything you’ll need for a relaxing and enjoyable time, but also only what you can carry down and up quite a lot of stairs. Auntie recommends your snorkel gear, a GoPro, floatation, an umbrella, and a backpack beach chair packed with your towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and snacks.
Aerial view of Kapalua Bay in Maui, Hawai’i.
#3. Kapalua Bay
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- Location: Click here for directions from Auntie Snorkel Lahaina.
- (Be advised that you will have to drive the Lahaina bypass road to reach Northwest Maui, which is within sight of Lahaina. If you do not wish to pass this way, just scroll down to make #5 on this list your #1.)
- Why You’ll Love It: Kapalua Bay is another gem among the snorkeling spots in West Maui. Its calm, sheltered waters are perfect for snorkelers of all levels. The bay has a picturesque sandy bottom and coral formations near the shore, which are home to a diverse range of marine life.
- What to Bring: Bring the whole family and everything you want for full beach day. Auntie recommends snorkeling gear, floatation, umbrellas, and beach chairs.
Aerial view of Napili Bay in Maui, Hawai’i.
#4. Napili Bay
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- Location: Click here for directions from Auntie Snorkel Lahaina.
- (Be advised that you will have to drive the Lahaina bypass road to reach Northwest Maui, which is within sight of Lahaina. If you do not wish to pass this way, just scroll down to make #5 on this list your #1.)
- Why it’s Great: Visitors and locals alike love Napili Bay for its calm and crystal-clear waters. It’s among the best snorkeling spots in West Maui for beginners, and fun for stand-up paddle boarders, too. The inside of the bay offers protection from strong ocean currents, providing a tranquil environment for snorkeling.
- What to Bring: Bring the whole family and everything you want for a full beach day. Auntie recommends snorkeling gear, floatation, umbrellas, and beach chairs. Also, rent a stand-up paddle board for even more exploration and fun.
Aerial view of the Olowalu area in Maui, Hawai’i.
#5. Olowalu Mile Marker 14
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- Location: Click here for directions from Auntie Snorkel Lahaina.
- (This spot is well before the impacted Lahaina areas.)
- Why it’s Great: Olowalu contains some of the oldest reef known around Maui, which many consider to be the “mother reef” for much of the other reefs throughout the group of islands that make up Maui County. Snorkeling here offers a chance to observe some of the island’s most beautiful underwater landscapes.
- What to Bring: Bring what you need for an enjoyable reef exploration experience. Auntie recommends snorkel gear, floatation, a GoPro, reef-safe sunscreen, and snacks.
When snorkeling in West Maui, remember to follow best practices for responsible snorkeling: use quality gear, have a buddy, and be aware of the local forecast and conditions. Protect the delicate coral formations by not touching them, and maintain a respectful distance from marine life. Please be mindful of the healing process happening in all of West Maui, and do not enter or take photos of burned areas, even from afar. All of Maui welcomes your kindness and love.
