Honolua Bay

Max Depth 1-60 feet

beginner to intermediate snorkeling

Beach Location: On Honoapiilani Highway just past Mile Marker 33, Lahaina, HI 96761
Amenities: Three portable toilets in the parking lot, one trash and recycle receptacle
Time to snorkel: Year round
Kid Friendly: 7 and up
Lifeguards: No
Parking: Just past Mile Marker 33 and across a one lane bridge, there is a dirt parking lot for about 5 cars. That lot actually marks the beginning of the path to get to Honolua Bay. It is likely you will need to park on one side or the other of Honoapiilani Highway. Make sure your car is parked inside the white line, and take all valuables with you. Walk back to the tiny lot, pass the portable toilets, and travel through the simply magical forest on the dirt footpath. That will lead you to the water.

When was the last time you went snorkeling? How about surfing? Honolua Bay is a beautiful place to do both, but not at the same time, of course! When the ocean is calm and clear, this is an amazing place for underwater exploration. The reef here is protected from fishing, so the fishes grow large – both in size and population. The colorful fish you see here may be the same species that you’ll see just outside your hotel, but some individuals will be larger. It is common to see sea turtles. If you are in the right place at the right time in the water column, you may even get to see one of Maui’s manta rays glide by! When it comes to surfing, the waves can kick up at times. That’s when you’ll want to bring a board rather than your snorkel, mask, and swim fins. One thing to note: the beach at Honolua Bay is not great for relaxation, because it is made of large stones. We’ll sea you there!

Honolua Bay Rating by Boss Frog's

Water Clarity - 10/10

Wildlife Abundance - 10/10

Reef Abundance - 10/10

Ease of Beach Access - 5/10

Sandy Beach For Entertaining - 1/10

Summary 7.2/10

Honolua Bay is located in West Maui, on the northernmost part. This is one of Maui's best snorkel spots. During the summer months, visibility tends to be incredible. There are plenty of fish here, and the area is a marine reserve, so feel free to enjoy, but only take with you what you brought in.

View top 25 snorkeling beaches map and our complete beach guide page.

If you have any questions, feel free to call us at 1-808-661-3333.