BEST SNORKEL SPOTS
Best Snorkeling Spots and Beach info for South Maui
North Kihei and Maalaea are not typically noted for snorkeling. Fishing, and beach walking are the better activities. Canoe clubs dot the North shoreline and it is a beautiful site in the morning to see the outrigger canoes on the water.
Further South are the local favorite Kamaole I, II and III beaches that offer long stretches of sandy beach, with good snorkeling especially at the north and south ends of Kamaole III. All Kamaole Beaches have lifeguards. Kamaole III offers large picnic areas for big groups.
Keawakapu Beach has been voted "Best Beach" in the world and due to the long stretch of gorgeous sand, stunning views and good snorkeling at the rock outcroppings you will see why. It is not uncommon to run into friends from all over Maui strolling on this beach. It is definately a local favorite too. Relax after a stroll at the Five Palms at the Mana Kai outdoor area with a cool Mai Tai.
Located between the new Baccarat and the Wailea Marriott, are Ulua and Mokupu beaches. Diving and snorkeling are very popular here. Gina Duncan of the Fine Island Properties Team took her first dives here and can tell you a story about a very large turtle. The waves here are generally very kid friendly too especially before noon.
Polo Beach is just in front of the Polo Beach Club condos and there is ample parking just behind the Fairmont Kea Lani Resort. This is an excellent location for snorkeling. To the north is a great snorkel spot. This beach is a favorite for boogie boarding too especially in the afternoons.
Makena Landing is a beach that is overlooked for snorkeling as it is a great place to launch your kayak. The coral, sea life and sea caves are incredible. Just prior to the Landing is Five Caves or Five Graves, where you may see some of our white, or black tip reef sharks.
Ahihi Keanau Reserve is located in more remote Makena area and parking and beaches tend to be rocky. Many snorkeling spots can be had but some recently have been closed to protect the reefs.
La Perouse Bay could be your opportunity to launch kayak, and snorkel and see our own celebrity Spinner Dolphins who congregate almost daily in the bay in the morning hours. This is also a historic site for the first European landing on Maui and as an important Hawaiian historical area with marked outlines of homes and the Kings Trail. Don't forget to look upward toward the mountain to see Maui's last Lava Flow.
