West Maui offers some of the best snorkeling in all of Hawaii, with warm water year-round, excellent visibility, and an astonishing variety of marine life. Whether you're a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned underwater explorer, there's a spot here that's perfect for you. Here's our ranked guide to the top snorkeling locations, with practical tips you won't find in most guidebooks.
1. Honolua Bay — This marine life conservation district is the crown jewel of West Maui snorkeling. The coral gardens here are pristine, the fish diversity is staggering (you'll spot everything from Moorish idols to yellow tang), and on a good day the visibility stretches 80 feet or more. The catch? It's seasonal. Honolua Bay is only swimmable in summer months (roughly May through September) when the water is calm. In winter, big-wave surfers take over and the conditions are too dangerous for snorkeling. The entry is rocky — wear reef shoes and enter carefully along the right side of the bay. Arrive before 9am for the best conditions and fewer people. There are no facilities here, so bring everything you need.
2. Kapalua Bay — Protected by two rocky headlands, Kapalua Bay offers consistently calm water that makes it ideal for all skill levels, including kids and nervous first-timers. Swim along the right-side reef for the best fish activity — you'll see convict tangs, Christmas wrasse, and the occasional octopus hiding in the coral. The sandy-bottom entry is gentle and gradual. There's a small parking lot that fills up by 9:30am, plus restrooms and a rinse shower. The Merriman's restaurant overlooks the bay if you want lunch with a view afterward. This spot is swimmable almost year-round, though winter swells occasionally push in.
3. Black Rock (Ka'anapali) — The most convenient snorkeling in West Maui, right at the north end of Ka'anapali Beach in front of the Sheraton. Walk in from the sand and you're immediately surrounded by reef fish, green sea turtles, and colorful coral. The volcanic rock formation creates a wall that drops into deeper water, making it interesting for both shallow snorkelers and confident swimmers. You might spot an octopus clinging to the rocks or a moray eel peeking from a crevice. Early mornings are best — by afternoon, the water can get choppy and the crowds thick. Pro tip: snorkel around the right side of the rock for less traffic.
4. Olowalu (Mile 14) — Marked only by a mile marker on the highway, Olowalu has one of the largest reef systems in Maui. The massive coral reef starts just 50 feet from shore and extends several hundred yards out. This is the spot for turtle encounters — we've counted as many as a dozen turtles on a single snorkel session. The water is shallow (4-8 feet over most of the reef), making it accessible for beginners. Enter from the sandy beach area near mile marker 14 and swim straight out. There are no facilities, limited parking along the road, and no shade — bring an umbrella and plenty of water. The reef is fragile here, so be extra careful not to touch or stand on coral.
5. Napili Bay — This small, crescent-shaped bay offers calm, protected waters with turtles that surface near the rocky edges almost every afternoon. It's an excellent spot for beginners and families, with a sandy bottom and gentle entry. The snorkeling isn't as dramatic as Honolua or Kapalua, but the convenience and the reliable turtle sightings make it a favorite. There's a small general store across the street for snacks. Park along Lower Honoapiilani Road (arrive early for spots). The bay is also beautiful for just floating and relaxing when you're done exploring underwater.
Gear Tips: Rent quality gear from Snorkel Bob's or Boss Frog's for the week — daily beach rentals at resort shops are overpriced and often poor quality. If you snorkel regularly, buy a good mask and snorkel at Costco near the Kahului airport. Prescription masks are available at most rental shops. Always use reef-safe sunscreen — it's Hawaiian law and protects the reefs you're there to enjoy.
Safety Notes: Never snorkel alone, always check conditions before entering, and respect the ocean. If the water looks rough or murky, try a different spot. Current conditions can change quickly, especially in winter. The Maui County lifeguard website posts daily conditions for major beaches.
Local Knowledge
This article is written with local Lahaina knowledge and updated regularly to stay current.