An Octopus's Garden

Just like in the iconic Beatles song, An Octopus’s Garden, you can be surrounded by a mesmerizing wonderland of vivid colors, intriguing textures, and fascinating creatures. Schools of fish dart around you, while you explore every nook and cranny of this enchanting garden. Maui is one of the best places in the world experience the magic of snorkeling. Whether you are a seasoned pro or just starting out, there are plenty of places on the island to explore vibrant marine life and underwater landscapes. Here are 10 top snorkeling spots on Maui:

 

Molokini Crater

Located off the coast of Maui, Molokini is a crescent-shaped island that is home to a diverse range of marine life. Snorkelers can enjoy clear waters and sightings of colorful fish, sea turtles, and reef sharks.

 

Honolua Bay

Situated on Maui's northwest coast, Honolua Bay is known for its unique rock formations and coral reefs. Here, snorkelers can see a variety of sea creatures including octopuses, schools of fish, and even dolphins.

 

Kapalua Bay

This protected bay on Maui's west coast is ideal for snorkeling, with calm waters and a beautiful coral reef system. Visitors can expect to see colorful fish, turtles, and eels.

 

Napili Bay 

This small, crescent-shaped bay boasts crystal clear waters and a beautiful coral reef system. Snorkelers can expect to see a wide variety of marine life, including octopuses and sea turtles.

 

Kaanapali Beach

This popular beach on Maui's west coast is great for both snorkeling and swimming. Snorkelers can expect to see a range of fish, including butterflyfish and parrotfish.

 

Olowalu Beach

This shallow, protected bay on Maui's west coast is known for its large coral reef system and abundant sea life. Snorkelers can expect to see schools of fish, turtles, and even manta rays.

 

Ahihi Bay

Located on Maui's south coast, Ahihi Bay is a protected marine reserve with a variety of unique fish and coral formations. Snorkelers can expect to see triggerfish, parrotfish, and a few species of eels.

 

Black Rock

Located at the north end of Kaanapali Beach, Black Rock is home to a large variety of fish and coral. Snorkelers can expect to see sea turtles, trigger fish and possibly spotted eagle rays.

 

Makena Landing

This small beach on Maui's south coast is a great spot for snorkeling with calm waters and a variety of sea life including sea turtles, octopuses, and schools of fish.

 

Ulua Beach

This sandy beach on Maui's west coast is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, with clear waters and a variety of marine life including butterflyfish and moray eels.

Maui's snorkeling spots offer a diverse range of marine life and stunning underwater landscapes, but you can’t dive in without some gear (unless you’re going out on the submarine Atlantis, but that’s article for another time!). Whether you are an experienced snorkeler or a beginner, having the right snorkel gear is essential to enjoy the underwater beauty. Here are few places on Maui where you can rent or buy snorkel gear:

Boss Frog's Dive & Surf: Boss Frog's has multiple locations on Maui and is a popular choice for renting snorkel gear. They offer a range of gear options including full-face masks, traditional snorkel masks, fins, and snorkel vests. They also have a wide range of sizes to fit adults and children.

Maui Dive Shop: Maui Dive Shop has been in business since 1978 and offers a variety of snorkel gear rental options, including masks, fins, and snorkel vests. They also have a great selection of snorkel gear for purchase, including top brands like Mares and Tusa.

Snorkel Bob's: Snorkel Bob's has several locations on Maui and is known for their high-quality snorkel gear rentals. They offer full-face masks, traditional masks, and prescription masks for those who need corrective lenses. They also have a range of snorkel vests and fins available for rent.

The Snorkel Store: The Snorkel Store has two locations on Maui and is a popular choice for snorkel gear rentals. They offer a range of snorkel gear options, including full-face masks, traditional masks, and fins. They also offer a variety of add-ons, such as underwater cameras and beach chairs, to enhance your snorkeling experience.

Maui Sports Unlimited: Maui Sports Unlimited offers snorkel gear rentals and sales at their Lahaina location. They offer a range of snorkel gear options including full-face masks, traditional masks, and prescription masks. They also have a selection of fins and snorkel vests available for rent.

Each offers a range of snorkel gear options to suit different preferences and budgets. Along with the proper under water equipment, the shops will have maps available to help you navigate the the best spots around the island and advice on what option looks best for the current conditions. Wind and waves can change throughout the day, and though anytime of day could be good for a dip, the morning hours are generally calmer. In addition to weather conditions other considerations include: always snorkeling with a buddy, knowing your limits, respecting the marine life and wearing reef safe sunscreen. Now, it’s time to dive in!