4 Top Spots to Snorkel in South Maui

I love to snorkel. I don't consider myself to be a snorkeling expert by any means, but I know enough to keep me safe. Such as, when to snorkel and when not to snorkel.

Case in point: Maui has a North Swell and a South Swell.  North Swell happens during the winter months (approximately November to May) and brings the larger swells to the north shore of the island. Big swells on the north shore typically mean the south shore is a little tamer. Since I live on the south shore, winter is when I snorkel the most. That's not to say that I don't try to get out there and snorkel during the other months, but I tend to have to rely on my husband's swell-watching (i.e. perusing Surf News Network) abilities in order to know when I should/shouldn't go out. 

Maui Snorkeling Guide

I have found over the years that I prefer a few snorkel spots for a variety of reasons. My preference does not mean that there aren't numerous amazing spots to snorkel in South Maui, because there are. These are just a few of my favorites:

1. Makena Landing & TURTLE TOWN - Hands down, this is my favorite spot.  Each time I've snorkeled at M.L., I have seen something "big".  By "big", I mean an sea creature/mammal/fish larger than myself.  First time out - HUGE turtle. On our next snorkel, we saw multiple turtles. On my third trip out, I saw spotted sting rays for the first time and it was incredible. Of course, I wanted to take a picture, but I didn't know whether to swim away (fast) or stand my ground.  Luckily, I decided to be brave, and they glided right past me, with their magestic wings floating up and down through the blue water.  My only suggestion for snorkeling at Makena is to get out there as early as you can.  Once the wind and waves pick up (sometimes as early as 10am), visibility is poor and the swim back to the cove can be sketchy. 
2. Ulua Beach - GREAT FOR BEGINNERS! This is where I brought my oldest daughter to snorkel when she was 7. It's got some beautiful sea life and the coral reef is closer to the shore, which makes it an easier swim for little ones. 
3. Ahihi Keanau Reserve - Some of the best snorkeling on the island. It's a bit of a drive, but very worth it. Head out of the bay and you'll see some of the most beautiful underwater settings you've ever seen.  I haven't seen as many turtles here, but that's not to say that they're not around every turn. There's just so much to see, so it may be more difficult to spot them as they blend into their surroundings. 
4. La Perouse Bay -  Again, one of the best places to snorkel on the island. It is an excellent place to snorkel if it isn't too windy. There's also a pod of dolphins that sometimes hangs out in the bay, so keep your eyes open and perhaps you'll get to swim with them!
   

What are your favorite spots to snorkel in South Maui?  Please share them with us and let us know why they're the best! 

Sending Aloha...
Kelli Blair Braxton