10 Spots for the Best Snorkeling in Lahaina & Kaanapali
If you’re looking for the best snorkeling spots in Lahaina and Kaanapali, you’re in the right place.
With crystal blue waters and vibrant coral gardens, the west side of Maui offers some of the most incredible snorkeling experiences in the world.
Whether you’re a novice snorkeler or an experienced diver, the opportunities for exploration are endless.
So grab your mask and fins, and get ready to explore some of the best snorkeling spots in Lahaina and Kaanapali!
Snorkeling in Lahaina
1. Kapalua Bay
Kapalua Bay offers an unbeatable spot to make all of your underwater dreams come true.
If you make it over to the left side of the bay, you’re sure to come across some amazing coral formations.
Keep your eyes open – Octopus and a variety of crustaceans, Trumpet Fish, Damsel Fish, Parrot Fish and other curious creatures may pop up along your journey!
If you go out far enough on the north side of the bay, prepare yourself for even more dazzling sights of incredible fish and coral.
This crescent-shaped beach tends to get crowded with visitors quickly, so beat them to the punch and start your adventure earlier.
2. Honokeana Bay
Are you looking to go off the beaten path and explore a wild and exciting underwater paradise? Want to fulfill your dreams of spotting sea turtles in Maui?
Head to Honokeana Bay, where you can take your exploration to the next level. We’re talkin’ lots of beautiful fish, sea turtles galore and even sea urchins.
But beware: you need to have a bit of an adventurous spirit for this one – access can be a bit tricky, so we suggest making sure you’ve got some snorkeling experience under your belt.
While Honokeana Bay can be turbulent when it comes to waves, if you visit during the summer months, you’ll find a snorkeling session here is fit for an oceanic king or queen!
Top-Rated West Maui Snorkeling Tour
Ready to explore the depths of Maui's underwater world? On this guided snorkeling tour, climb aboard a boat and stop at two special snorkeling spots.
Prepare for an underwater paradise where you can come face-to-face with Hawaii's friendly sea creatures - delicate reef fish, inquisitive green sea turtles, and maybe even some sprightly dolphins from afar!
With each new discovery, feel free to share excited whispers with other guests between dives - because what happens under the waves definitely doesn't stay there!
They won't let hunger keep you from exploring either; be treated to breakfast and lunch with soft drinks included. You won't miss a moment while your stomach is content from tasty fuel.
Take hold of your fins – adventure awaits!
3. Kahekili Beach Park
Also known around town as Airport Beach, Kahekili Beach Park is the perfect spot for snorkeling with your own gear. Just wade out a few meters from shore and you’ll find yourself in an underwater paradise.
From moray eels to sea turtles, you can discover all kinds of fascinating life hiding in the reef.
But don’t forget about the beach itself – there’s plenty of room to make sandcastles with your little ones.
We hope you’re an early riser because parking fills up fast after 9 am!
4. Honolua Bay
Get out there and be one with the waves at Honolua Bay! Home to Maui’s most spectacular reef and abundant sea life, this popular snorkeling spot is perfect if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure.
You may access the bay from shore, but the best way to make the most of your time here is to join a boat tour – complete with breakfast, lunch, and gear.
You can see some of Hawaii’s wildest creatures up close with a certified marine naturalist by your side.
C’mon now, who said snorkeling has to be just another day at the beach?
5. Napili Bay
If a picture-perfect example of snorkel paradise exists, it’s at Napili Bay. There are so many creatures, great and small, calling this place home beneath the waves.
Located just off the highway, Napali Bay is easily accessible but it can get crowded, so arrive early enough to secure a parking spot for yourself.
When you’re ready, dive right into its wonderfully diverse underwater life. Keep an eye out for a wide array of fishes, vibrant corals and even honus (turtles).
It’s guaranteed to be one exciting adventure – like real-life Finding Nemo!
6. Wahikuli Beach Park
Conveniently located between Ka’anapali and Lahaina, Wahikuli Beach Park is easily accessible – perfect for those of us who can appreciate a good snorkel without too much effort.
Wahikuli Beach isn’t just a place to enjoy some underwater views though; it’s also got plenty of greenery for you to lounge on when you need a break from the waves.
What’s more, you can expect plenty of cute companions during your visit – we’re talking turtles, obviously!
So if lounging on lawns and swimming with sea creatures sounds like your kind of day out, make sure to add Wahikuli Beach Park to your list.
It’s never been easier (or more fun!) to explore the depths of Lahaina.
7. Mala Wharf
Take the plunge and explore the vivid sea creatures inhabiting the exotic waters around Lahaina’s Mala Wharf!
Known as one of the best spots to go snorkeling in Lahaina proper, you’ll be amazed by all the fin-tastic critters lurking below.
Whether you’re a master snorkeler or just want to dive headfirst into a new hobby, make sure you open your eyes wide to spot sea turtles, reef sharks, and different kinds of fish.
To make things even cooler (literally), depths can even reach up to thirty meters if you’re feeling brave enough to try diving instead.
So don’t get cold feet and bring your gear to Mala Wharf for some soakin’ good times.
8. Mokuleia Bay
Sick of the same old shores that offer the same dull sights? Spicing up your snorkeling routine has never been easier at Mokuleia Bay, a marine reserve home to a cozy community of adorable turtles and vibrant tropical fish.
And if you’re looking for a little more adventure, why not swim north to explore Honolua Bay as well?
Just keep in mind that winter can bring rough waters, so it’s better to come here during the warmer months.
Snorkeling in Kaanapali
9. Ka‘anapali Point
Are you ready to take your snorkeling game to the next level? Located just off of Ka‘anapali Beach in front of the Marriott resort, this incredible reef is less crowded than other spots in the area.
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure full of beautiful and colorful sea creatures.
Anyone up for finally kicking off their summer by becoming a pro-snorkeler? Let’s go!
10. Pu‘u Keka‘a (Black Rock)
Ditch your shoes and pick up some fins, because you’re about to plunge into splendor with an incredible underwater experience at Black Rock Beach.
Be sure to arrive early in the morning if you want to have the best chance of spotting some sea turtles – high tide is your best bet!
Just make sure that while exploring you keep an eye out for people jumping off rocks; safety always comes first when having fun.
