Snorkeling is one of the well-loved activities that locals and tourists enjoy in Nāpili. The waters in Nāpili are generally much calmer compared to other neighboring beaches in Maui. And the sea is home to a vibrant underwater world with a wide array of fish and marine life. Below are the top 5 snorkeling spots near Nāpili Surf Beach Resort that will surely suit your adventure plans.
1. Nāpili Bay
Nāpili Bay is the most suitable beach to go scuba diving and snorkeling. The beautiful crescent-
shaped beach is located at the northern part of the island. Nāpili Bay is the perfect location for both
novice and seasoned snorkelers. The water is approximately 3 – 5 ft deep and the waves are
generally calm. The beach is home to an assortment of fish, coral formations, and rock
abutments. During low tide, the rock formations and corals on the left side of the beach get
exposed, and the colorful underwater creatures are sometimes visible even from the shoreline.
2. Honolua Bay
Another snorkeling haven in the area of Nāpili is at Honolua Bay. It is located at the northwestern part of the island of Maui, and since it’s a Marine Life Conservation District, no fishing is allowed in the area thus making the bay rich with sea life. When you get to Honolua Bay, you could either jump right from the beach and swim with the diverse creatures underwater or take an enjoyable short walk past the bay and overlook the beautiful and clear waters from the cliff. Honolua Bay is a bit big, and the best snorkeling spot is a bit far from the shore so don’t give up too quickly on your swim.
3. Kapalua Bay
Kapalua Bay is a beautiful white sandy beach in the northwestern part of Maui. It is a
protected bay and offers a great snorkeling spot for beginners as well as professional snorkelers
all year round. The sandy beach makes it easier to enter the water. There are also trails along
the cliffs which offer a great view of the ocean and the exposed rocks. Both ends of the beach
provide the best snorkeling spot with plenty of tropical fishes and beautiful reefs.
4. Makule’ia Bay
Makule’ia Bay is popularly known as “Slaughterhouse” by many of the locals as there used to be a slaughterhouse on the cliff near the bay. It is another must-visit snorkeling spot near Nāpili. It is located north of Nāpili on Highway 30 and is only accessible by car. Snorkelers will surely be amazed at some deep drop-offs, caves, and tunnels which are all rich with sea creatures. Snorkelers should be very careful though as swells can be rough sometimes. Beginners might like to stick to the rocky walls not too far from the shore. Common sightings at Makule’ia Bay may include but are not limited to silver fishes, sea turtles, zebra moray eels, parrotfishes, triggerfishes, and white tip reef shark if you stay on the right side of the bay.
5. Honokeana Bay
Honokeana Bay is another snorkeling spot just south of Nāpili Bay. It might be a bit
difficult to find, but all the hard work will be worth it once you see the beauty of the place over
and underwater. This spot is rich with underwater creatures such as squid and other tropical fish. You’ll even get to see the Green Sea Turtles gliding through the waters. The turtles may even try to swim up to you but refrain from feeding or touching them, they are federally protected sea creatures, so give them space and let them glide past you. Honokeana Bay is not suitable for small children or novice swimmers, as there is no sandy beach, and getting in and out of the waters can be very challenging with all the big rocks in the area so consider wearing water shoes that have traction.
Protect Our Beautiful Reefs
While you enjoy the beautiful living landscapes beneath the waves, please be careful to protect our reefs for the future.
Make sure to wear reef-safe sunscreen without any of the harmful ingredients that can poison the coral. Green Sea Turtles. Honokeana Bay is not suitable for small children as getting in and out of the
waters can be very hard with all the big rocks in the area. The waves can also get strong, especially during winter.
Never step on the reefs as it can be very dangerous for both you and the reef.