Best Makena Landing Snorkeling

South of Kihei and Wailea on Maui, the snorkeling at Makena Landing Park is the most popular shore dive on the southside and known for green sea turtles. It is part of the region that some call turtle town, but most consider Maluaka Beach Park as THE Turtle Town. While snorkeling the rocky Makena Landing Park, it is likely to see a couple sea turtles eating, especially early in the morning to the right side of the beach.

This is one of the best places to spot both turtles and sharks. Off the right side and further offshore, there are some large crevices and caves. Those provide shelter for resting sea turtles and reef sharks.

To reach the snorkeling on Maui by air, you will need to fly into Kahului Airport (OGG) which is located in the middle of the north coast of Maui. It is served by direct flights from the mainland US and also by inter-island flights from several other Hawaiian Islands by regional carriers. It is recommended to rent a car at the airport in order to reach the best Maui snorkeling spots. When planning a trip to the Hawaiian islands, be aware that the State Of Hawaii has banned all sunscreens that oxybenzone, which has been proven to kill coral reefs.

To reach the Makena Landing Park snorkeling from Wailea, head south on Makena Alanui Road. Turn right heading west on Honoiki Street to the end. Turn right heading north on Makena Road. After about 250 feet, there is a small water side parking area.

Overall, Makena Landing is the 21st most popular snorkel dive spot of all 24 snorkeling dives in Maui. Several of the better snorkeling spots are nearby Makena Landing including Molokini Crater, Maluaka Beach Park, Kanahena Cove, La Perouse Bay, Five Caves and Keawanaku Beach.