Located in Maui, the snorkeling in Lahaina is known for four scenic snorkel dive spots. The best Lahaina snorkeling based on popularity are considered to be Coral Gardens, Wahikuli State Park, Olowalu Reef, and Papalaua Wayside Park. For a detailed dive site description and printable snorkel dive map, just select a Lahaina snorkeling dive below.
Southeast of Lahaina and west of Maalaea of Maui, the snorkeling at Papalaua State Wayside Park is known for its coral gardens on the eastern end. The Papalaua Wayside Park snorkeling is best early in the morning before the winds kick up. Snorkelers are treated to a bountiful display of butterfly fish and humuhumunukunukuapua'a (Hawaiian state fish aka rectangular triggerfish) along the shallow coral.
South of Lahaina and west of Maalaea on Maui, the snorkeling at Coral Gardens is known to be excellent. While there are are some reefs close to shore, the main dive spot is located well off-shore and most snorkelers access via kayak. Coral Gardens is for experienced snorkelers only due to long swim from shore.