Ahihi-Kinau South Maui, past Makena — Natural Area Reserve; snorkel only at the designated open coves, parts of the reserve are closed to entry Olowalu West Maui, off Honoapiilani Hwy near mile marker 14 — roadside parking steps from the water Cost Free, both Difficulty Intermediate–advanced: lava entries (Ahihi) and a long swim out (Olowalu) […]
Where Northwest Maui, past Kapalua on the Honoapiilani Hwy Cost Free · roadside parking, then a ~5–10 min forest walk Season Apr–Oct; winter = world-class surf, zero snorkeling Difficulty Intermediate — rocky shoreline entry, no sand, no lifeguard Protection Marine Life Conservation District — no fishing or taking of any kind Facilities None. No restrooms, […]
Where Kapalua, West Maui — just north of Napili Cost Free · small public lot with beach access path Difficulty Beginner — protected crescent, sandy walk-in entry Turtles Often — along the rocky points at either end Season Year-round; among the most reliably calm bays on Maui Best time Morning, for parking, calm and clarity […]
Where Maluaka Beach, Makena — South Maui, past Wailea Cost Free from shore · or included as the 2nd stop on most Molokini tours Difficulty Beginner — sandy entry, calm mornings, moderate swim to the turtle zone Turtles Very likely — this is a resident population, not a lucky sighting Best time Morning, before wind […]
Where North end of Ka’anapali Beach, West Maui — beside the Sheraton Cost Free · parking is the only expense (public stalls or paid garage) Difficulty Beginner on calm mornings — deeper water right along the rock Turtles Very likely — they patrol the rock face daily Best time Early morning: calm water, clear visibility, […]
Access Boat only — morning tours from Ma’alaea Harbor, south Maui Cost Roughly $150–200 per adult; kids discounted, under 3 often free Difficulty Beginner–intermediate; crews provide flotation and in-water support Best time Morning departures, year-round; afternoon wind chops the crater Bonus season November–April tours double as whale watches What Molokini actually is Molokini is a […]