Your Guide to Snorkling in Maui

To snorkel is a great experience for anyone who's interested in outdoor adventures. In fact, snorkling anywhere, especially in Maui, can offer you a world of knowledge in addition to the adventure. Learning about marine life may not help you in your career, but it can certainly help you to understand the world and give you a peak into some of life's mysteries.

To snorkel in Maui means plenty of opportunity in the many world class spots to choose from. So where are the best spots to snorkel, and what will you see while snorkling in Maui? Keep reading to find out.

Maui Snorkling Hot Spots

One of Maui's most premier snorkling spots is called Ahihi Keanau Reserve. This spot is perfect for beginners because the depth of the water does not vary greatly so it's easy to practice and learn the tips and tricks of great snorkling. Because of the many different tropical fish found in this spot and because the water stays so clear, even novice snorklers will enjoy the experience.

The Kamaole Beaches of Maui are great snorkling spots for the family. There are a total of 3 "Kam" beaches, all found next to each other on the West coast of the island of Maui. You'll find that the access to snorkling at these beaches is easy to get to, and the water is mild so snorkling with young children is definitely a possibility.

Polo beach is also another elite spot for snorkling in Maui. This beach has facilities including bathrooms and water, and has plenty of fish to see while you snorkel. In fact, many find that to the right of the beach is the best spot to snorkel, where the water is clear and immensely swarming with sea life.

What to Expect to See While Snorkling in Maui

Of course you'd expect to see plenty of varying colored fish, and you wouldn't be disappointed. In fact, snorkling in Maui will allow you to experience a multitude of tropical fish found around the world, some turtles, and even some fish that are native to the Hawaiian islands.

Green sea turtles are often found while you snorkel, and sometimes even on shore before you get wet. They're beautiful and big, and they're also endangered species. Because the turtles are so used to humans, they have no problem being within a touch's reach. However because they're endangered, it is important to remember not to touch the turtles or get to close to them. You can be fined if you, because it's against the law.

Some native fish to watch for when snorkling in Maui is the Humuhumunukunukuapuaa. Yes, their name is a bit ridiculous and almost impossible to pronounce unless you're a native Hawaiian, but the fish itself does exist, name and all. You'll know you're looking at one when you see a fish that is shaped sort of like a football, but white. These fish also have black around their backs and their eyes, looking kind of like burglars. Many have red coloring outlining the top of their heads, but no matter the pattern of these fish, they're a sight everyone should experience.