Maui’s crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and dramatic volcanic formations make it one of the best places in Hawaii to snorkel. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a total beginner, Maui offers options that range from boat trips to guided shore experiences. We’re particularly fond of the West Maui Snorkeling Experience by Boat from Ka’anapali because of its small-group setting and the chance to swim with turtles and dolphins while enjoying breakfast and lunch. For a more luxurious experience, the Maui Luxury Snorkeling Molokini aboard Air Conditioned Yacht Elua truly stands out with its premium amenities and expert crew. And if you’re traveling with non-swimmers or kids, the guided Snorkeling for Non-Swimmers at Wailea Beach offers a relaxed, educational start to your underwater adventures.
To help you choose, we’ve compiled a list of the 16 best snorkeling adventures in Maui, each with its own unique appeal and features. Whether your focus is convenience, wildlife encounters, or comfort, there’s a tour here to match your style.
1. West Maui Snorkeling Experience by Boat from Ka’anapali
At number 1 on our list, this half-day small-group snorkel tour combines comfort, wildlife, and great food. Board a well-equipped boat from Ka’anapali and explore two different snorkeling spots where you’re likely to see turtles, reef fish, and dolphins. The guides are passionate and knowledgeable, sharing insights about the marine environment as you swim. The tour includes breakfast, lunch, snacks, and soft drinks, which makes it a fantastic value considering the 5-hour duration. Reviewers highlight the attentive crew and the delicious banana bread as a memorable touch. This tour suits travelers who want an intimate, relaxed experience with plenty of wildlife spotting and good food.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups and families who value expert guides and a laid-back vibe with all-inclusive meals.
2. Molokini Crater Snorkeling Adventure
For around $197, the Molokini Crater Snorkeling Adventure offers access to one of Hawaii’s most famous underwater volcanic calderas. The 53-foot boat with a waterslide adds a playful touch, especially appreciated by families or kids. This tour heads straight to Molokini, renowned for its exceptional visibility and vibrant coral reefs, and includes a stop at Turtle Town, where sea turtles are plentiful. The crew is described as friendly and engaging, and onboard breakfast and lunch keep everyone energized. Whales are visible seasonally from November through April, adding extra excitement.
Bottom Line: Best for families or groups seeking a fun, active day with snorkeling at iconic sites and some playful onboard amenities.
3. Molokini Crater and Turtle Town Snorkeling From Kihei
This 3-hour tour offers a quick but thorough exploration of Maui’s top snorkeling spots, especially suited for those short on time. The boat departs from Kihei, making it convenient for travelers based in South Maui. It features snorkeling at both Molokini and Turtle Town, with all gear and snacks included. The crew is praised for their helpfulness—especially Lucia and Matt, who share interesting facts and make the experience educational but fun. The smaller scale means more personalized attention, making it a good choice for beginners or families who want to maximize their snorkeling time.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a concise, guided experience with an emphasis on marine life and a friendly crew.
4. Snorkeling for Non-Swimmers Guided Tour – Wailea Beach
For newcomers or non-swimmers, this 1.5-hour guided tour at Wailea Point is a top pick. It uses inflatable paddle boards to float over coral gardens while offering expert instruction. The guide, Triston, is known for his patience and ability to boost confidence, making this suitable for families with children or anyone nervous about water. The gear is high quality, and the shallow waters are perfect for practicing breathing and floating. Reviewers mention how this experience helped even reluctant swimmers see turtles and fish with ease.
Bottom Line: The best option for beginners or non-swimmers eager to explore Maui’s marine life safely and comfortably.
5. Maui Snorkeling Molokini Crater and Turtle Town
This all-day trip at about 5 hours is perfect for those who want a comprehensive experience. Departing on a catamaran, you’ll snorkel in calm, clear waters teeming with fish and turtles. The trip includes meals, snacks, and drinks, with the crew sharing insights about the marine environment. The boat’s stability and spaciousness, along with the opportunity to snorkel at two prime sites, make it a favorite for both first-timers and seasoned snorkelers. Reviewers highlight the great visibility and plentiful marine life, especially the sea turtles at Turtle Town.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers wanting a full-day, relaxed cruise with guided snorkeling in Maui’s top locations.
6. Sea Scooter Snorkeling Guided Tour – Wailea Beach
For the adventurous, this 1.5-hour guided tour uses sea scooters to maximize underwater exploration. Small groups (up to six) enjoy personalized attention as they glide over reefs, looking for manta rays, turtles, and eels. The scooters make it easier to cover more ground without exhausting yourself. Reviewers praise the tour for the professional guides and the opportunity to see up to 7 honu (turtles). It’s best suited for experienced snorkelers who want a bit of adrenaline.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want to see more marine life with less effort and enjoy a focused, small-group adventure.
7. Molokini and Turtle Arches Snorkeling Trip from Ma’alaea Harbor
Starting from Ma’alaea Harbor, this 5-hour trip combines snorkeling at Molokini and the Turtle Arches. The large Maxi Power Catamaran features a continental breakfast and barbecue lunch, plus a glass-bottom viewing room. It’s a popular choice for those who want a comfortable, spacious boat and the chance to see over 250 fish species. Reviewers note the crew’s attentiveness and the great snorkeling conditions.
Bottom Line: Suitable for families or groups who love amenities and want a comprehensive day exploring Maui’s underwater world.
8. Four Winds Molokini Snorkeling Tour from Maalaea Harbor
This 5-hour trip features glass bottom viewing and snorkeling in Molokini’s pristine waters. The comfortable catamaran offers plenty of space to relax and take in views of Haleakala. The focus here is on quality snorkeling and a leisurely atmosphere, with reviews highlighting the great food and attentive crew. The boat’s reputation for cleanliness and professionalism makes it a reliable choice.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort, scenic views, and well-organized tours with educational value.
9. Clear Kayak Tour with Pontoons and Optional Snorkeling – Unlimited
This 3-hour tour offers a unique way to explore Maui’s underwater world via clear kayaks. Ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed, hands-free adventure, it includes the opportunity to see octopus, turtles, and eels. The tour includes snacks like Hawaiian pineapple and bananas, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The drone footage option is an extra highlight for capturing the experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers looking for an easy, educational, and fun way to see Maui’s reefs without getting wet.
10. Maui Luxury Snorkeling Molokini aboard Air Conditioned Yacht Elua
For those seeking luxury and comfort, this air-conditioned yacht offers a 5-hour trip with snorkeling at Molokini and Turtle Town. The Euro-style interior, spacious restrooms, and plush sofas elevate this trip into a refined experience. The crew provides breakfast, BBQ lunch, and drinks, including craft cocktails and microbrews. Reviewers mention the professionalism and quality food that makes this a standout.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a pampered, premium experience with excellent amenities and a knowledgeable crew.
11. South Maui: Molokini & Turtle Town Snorkeling Tour with Meal
This 5.5-hour tour departs from South Maui and offers a comfortable catamaran cruise. It features snorkeling at Molokini and Turtle Town, with a continental breakfast and deli lunch included. The focus is on easy access to top sites with clear waters and abundant fish, making it ideal for families and casual snorkelers.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a relaxed day with good food and easy access to Maui’s best snorkeling sites.
12. South Maui: Molokini Snorkeling Adventure
This 5.5-hour adventure features two snorkel stops and a spacious triple-deck catamaran. It’s perfect for families or groups wanting to see over 250 fish species and swim with turtles. The deli lunch and breakfast make it a full day on the water, with reviews praising the beautiful visibility and friendly crew.
Bottom Line: Excellent for snorkelers who value space, comfort, and multiple swim opportunities.
13. Maui Snorkeling Boat Tour to Turtle Town Aboard Quicksilver
This 4.5-hour tour on the double-decker Quicksilver includes snorkeling at Turtle Town and Coral Gardens. It features a waterslide and spectacular marine life encounters. The captain takes you to hidden spots, and everything is provided, so you just relax and explore. Reviewers love the friendly staff and turtle sightings.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families and those wanting a fun, kid-friendly trip with extra thrills.
14. Maalaea: West Maui Snorkeling & Sailing Day Trip with Lunch
This 5-hour luxury sailing trip offers pristine reefs, whale watching (seasonal), and a delicious lunch. The calm sailing and open bar options make it a relaxing choice for those who enjoy sailing combined with snorkeling. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of activity and leisure.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a peaceful day on the water with good food and scenic views.
15. Maui: Snorkeling and Sailing Adventure with Buffet Lunch
This 4-hour tour combines snorkeling with a sailing trip along Maui’s coast, including hot buffet lunch and drinks. The spacious boat and trampolines provide ample lounging space, and the marine life includes tropical fish and green sea turtles. Reviewers highlight the friendly crew and delicious food.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a lively, social atmosphere with easy snorkeling.
16. Wailea Beach: Guided Sea Scooter Snorkeling Tour
Rounding out our list, this 1.5-hour guided tour at Wailea Beach is ideal for sea scooter enthusiasts. It offers the chance to swim farther and faster, exploring reefs and marine life including green sea turtles. The small group size ensures personalized guidance, and reviewers love the fun, high-energy experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re looking for an active, fast-paced snorkeling adventure with a focus on sea life.
How to Choose Your Maui Snorkeling Experience
When picking among these tours, consider your budget, time available, and comfort level. If you want a luxurious escape, the Air Conditioned Yacht Elua or Luxury Yacht trips are top-tier options. For families or beginners, tours like the Wailea Beach Non-Swimmers or shorter outings from Kihei offer patience and safety. Those seeking adventure and speed will love the sea scooter tours, while the full-day catamaran trips provide more relaxed, expansive exploration.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season (winter months for whale watching, summer for busy family trips). Check the seasonal highlights—like whale sightings—and pick a tour that matches your interests and fitness level.
Maui truly offers a broad spectrum of snorkeling adventures that cater to every type of traveler—whether you’re after lively marine encounters, family-friendly fun, or luxury comfort. With this guide, you’re well-equipped to choose the perfect Maui snorkeling experience for your trip. Remember, the earlier you book, the better your chances of snagging your preferred date and tour—so don’t delay. Happy snorkeling!