Planning a family trip to Maui and looking for the best snorkeling beaches for kids and families? You’re in the right place. Our guide to the best Maui snorkeling beaches for families highlights calm, shallow waters, sandy beach entries, and vibrant marine life that make these spots ideal for beginners and younger swimmers. Whether you’re hoping to snorkel with sea turtles, explore coral reefs, or just enjoy a stress-free beach day with the kids, Maui offers a range of family-friendly snorkeling locations.
We’ve included beaches with easy access, public restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby amenities—plus tips on when to go for the clearest water and gentlest waves. From protected coves to hidden gems, these top Maui beaches are perfect for safe, memorable underwater adventures with children of all ages.
Before we dive in, have you seen our ranked lists? They may provide additional context for your trip.
Top family friendly Maui hotels
Beaches: Amazing Hawaii – here are the best beaches in Maui ranked
Fun kids activities in Maui
Ready to discover the top family snorkeling spots in Maui? Let’s dive into the best beaches that combine safety, convenience, and incredible marine life.
Kahekili Beach Park (Old Airport Beach)
Spacious, calm, and great for beginner snorkelers
If you’re staying near Kaanapali or Lahaina, Kahekili Beach Park is a hidden gem for family snorkeling. The reef begins just a few feet offshore, so you don’t have to swim far to start seeing fish. The beach is long and wide, which means there’s plenty of space to set up your spot.
This area tends to be less crowded than nearby Kaanapali Beach and often has better snorkeling conditions. The coral reef stretches out parallel to the beach, making it easy to follow and explore.
Good to Know: There’s parking, restrooms, showers, and even shaded picnic areas—perfect for a family beach day. Try to go early before the wind picks up in the afternoon.
Napili Bay
A pretty beach for play, with some snorkeling when calm
Just next door to Kapalua Bay, Napili Bay is another family favorite. While it’s more known for its scenic beach and gentle waves, there’s also decent snorkeling along the right-hand (north) side if the water is calm.
This is a great spot for mixing beach fun with a little underwater exploring. The sandy bottom makes for an easy entry, and the gentle slope means kids can play safely in the shallows. Just keep in mind, Napili Bay can get wavy depending on the wind and tide, so check conditions before letting little snorkelers venture out.
Good to Know: No lifeguard here, but there’s some street parking and restaurants nearby if you want to grab a bite after your swim. It’s a lovely bay to spend the day with a picnic and your snorkel gear handy.
Kapalua Bay
Perfect for first-time snorkelers and younger kids
Kapalua Bay is one of the most family-friendly snorkeling spots on Maui. The bay is well protected by lava rock arms, keeping waves small and currents mild—ideal for beginners and little ones. The sandy beach and calm, shallow entry make it super easy to wade in and start exploring.
Snorkeling is best along the rocky edges of the bay, where you’ll find coral gardens and colorful fish. Visibility is usually good, especially in the mornings. There’s a chance you might even see a sea turtle cruising by!
Good to Know: There are restrooms, showers, and a rental shack for gear nearby. Parking can be tricky, so come early or be ready to walk a bit. Great spot for a low-stress beach day with snorkeling on the side.
Honolua Bay
Best for adventurous families with older kids
Honolua Bay is one of Maui’s top snorkeling spots, thanks to its crystal-clear water and thriving reef system. It’s part of a protected marine sanctuary, so the marine life here is outstanding. To get there, you’ll take a short, shaded walk through a forest trail—kids might love spotting wild chickens and giant plants along the way.
This isn’t your typical beach day, though. There’s no sand—just large, smooth rocks—so be prepared with good water shoes. The best way to get into the water is via the old boat ramp on the right side. The rocks can be slippery, so take it slow and help little ones where needed.
On calm days, expect to see colorful fish, maybe a turtle, and if you’re lucky, even an octopus or manta ray. Visibility can be a little wavy in spots due to freshwater mixing with the ocean. This spot is better suited for confident swimmers, so it’s ideal for families with older kids who are comfortable in the water.
Good to Know: No restrooms or lifeguards. Check the surf report before you go—during winter, the bay is better for watching surfers than for snorkeling.
Mokuleia Bay
Kid-friendly when conditions are calm
Mokuleia Bay is a beautiful, quiet spot for snorkeling—especially in summer or on calm-weather days. You’ll get there by walking down a long set of stairs, so pack light and bring only what you need.
Once on the beach, head to the right side of the bay to see the best reef life. The left side doesn’t have much to see underwater. Expect to spot turtles, parrotfish, Moorish idols, and other tropical fish. The sandy entry makes it easier than Honolua, though the waves can still be strong in winter, so always use your judgment.
If you’re visiting with younger kids or beginner snorkelers, stay close to shore and be cautious of current. Older or stronger swimmers can even explore around the point into Honolua Bay if conditions allow.
Good to Know: No lifeguards, bathrooms, or food nearby—plan ahead. The beach is wild and natural, which is part of its charm.
DT Fleming Beach
Best for a mix of play and snorkeling – with lifeguards and amenities
DT Fleming Beach is a great all-around choice for families. It has a big sandy beach, picnic tables, BBQ grills, restrooms, and—most importantly—a lifeguard on duty. On calm days, it’s a nice spot for snorkeling or just relaxing while the kids build sandcastles.
While not known as a top-tier snorkel destination, the water here can still offer fun discoveries along the shoreline. When waves are up, it becomes more of a boogie-boarding and people-watching beach than a snorkel site.
There’s a small restaurant, the Burger Shack, right next to the beach if you need lunch or a snack.
Good to Know: Easy parking and lots of space to spread out. A solid option if you’re looking for a more traditional beach day with some light snorkeling mixed in.
Kaanapali Beach – Black Rock
Popular and convenient, with a little adventure for confident swimmers
Black Rock, at the north end of Kaanapali Beach, is one of the most iconic snorkeling spots on Maui. It’s easy to access and usually has calm waters in the morning. Families with older kids or strong swimmers will love exploring around the lava rock, where sea turtles and tropical fish are often spotted.
That said, this spot can get crowded—both in the water and on the beach—and there may be a current depending on the day. Stick to the left side of the rock (when facing the ocean) for an easier entry and to stay in the safest zone.
Good to Know: Public restrooms and parking are available at the nearby beach access points (look for signs near Whalers Village). Go early for easier parking and better visibility. Not ideal for toddlers or very young kids due to deeper water and current.
Hanakao’o Beach Park – Canoe Beach
Spacious beach with turtles and a lifeguard on duty
Just south of Black Rock, Hanakao’o (locals call it Canoe Beach) is a great alternative if you want fewer crowds but still enjoy good snorkeling. The beach is wide with lots of room to spread out, and the left side near the rocks is where you’ll likely spot sea turtles.
The entry is sandy, and the water is usually calm in the mornings. It’s also one of the few beaches on this side of the island with a lifeguard, which is always a plus when snorkeling with kids.
Good to Know: There are restrooms, showers, BBQ grills, and shaded picnic areas. Be careful walking barefoot—kiawe trees in the area drop sharp thorns. Bring water shoes or flip-flops just in case.
Launiupoko Beach Park
Kid-Friendly • Public Restrooms • Easy Access
Launiupoko is like a giant ocean-side backyard—grassy, shady, and perfect for families. There’s a paved path, a big lawn to spread out on, and a narrow beach with calm water thanks to a rocky enclosure that forms a natural kiddie pool. The small, steady waves here make it an ideal spot for beginner surfers. Keep an eye out for Hawaiian monk seals and sea turtles—both are known to make appearances! Reef shoes are a good idea, as there are sea urchins and coral close to shore. This is a favorite beach park for local families, especially on weekends, so come early to snag a good spot.
Charley Young Beach
Kid-Friendly • Public Portable Restrooms • Turtles • Easy Access
Charley Young Beach is a local favorite that feels like a hidden gem. Located at the north end of Kamaole Beach Park I, it’s quieter and less crowded, with easy access and sandy shores. You can walk here from Kam I or park in the lot on South Kihei Rd.
This is a great snorkeling spot, especially for seeing turtles, plus manini, trumpetfish, and other reef dwellers. Enter the water where it’s sandy, and try to snorkel early in the morning when the waves are calmest and visibility is clearest. There are beach showers, porta-potties, and plenty of soft sand for lounging or catching the sunset.
Kamaole Beaches I, II, & III
Kid-Friendly • Lifeguards • Public Restrooms • Easy Access
The “Kam” beaches are perfect for a full beach day. All three offer calm waters, grassy areas, and lots of space to explore. Kam III even has a playground! You’ll find nearby shops and restaurants, and the reefs between beaches are full of colorful fish and sea turtles.
Lava rock fingers stretch into the ocean at each beach and host thriving reefs. You might see butterflyfish, trumpetfish, or even the elusive octopus! Snorkel along the rocky sides and enjoy the soft sand in between. Kam III is especially great on the right side for snorkeling. When you’re done in the water, stick around for a beautiful South Maui sunset.
Keawakapu Beach
Kid-Friendly • Public Portable Restrooms
Keawakapu is a long, golden-sand beach that feels a bit more off-the-beaten-path. There’s plenty of room to spread out, but bring your own shade—there’s little natural cover. Snorkeling here is lovely, especially near the lava fingers on the right side where sea turtles often hang out.
You’ll see trumpetfish, goatfish, butterflyfish, and maybe even Hawaii’s famous state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua’a. Use a sandy entry and steer clear of big rocks. The water can be rough at times, so be sure to check the surf and your energy before heading out. When you’re ready for a break, enjoy the sand or relax on the nearby lawn.
Ulua and Mokapu Beaches
Kid-Friendly • Turtles • Easy Access
These neighboring beaches in Wailea are divided by a fantastic reef system and are super family-friendly. Mokapu fronts the Andaz Resort, while Ulua is a bit smaller but just as lovely. Both have sandy entries and a scenic boardwalk nearby.
Underwater, you’ll find a rainbow of reef fish, from butterflyfish to boxfish—and yes, lots of turtles! Pick a lava point and snorkel along its edge for the best views. Get in early when the ocean is calmest, and always snorkel with a buddy.
Wailea Beach
Kid-Friendly • Easy Access
Located right in front of the Grand Wailea Resort, this is one of Maui’s most picture-perfect beaches. The sand is soft, the path is well maintained, and the snorkeling can be pretty exciting.
You’ll spot butterflyfish, red pencil urchins, and maybe a turtle or two. The coral reef is about 30 yards offshore, so enter from the sandy right side, swim past the waves, and head toward the right to find the good stuff. Showers and trash bins are conveniently located, and the beach is perfect for a relaxed, luxurious day.
Maluaka Beach
Kid-Friendly • Public Restrooms
This gem near Makena is peaceful, scenic, and ideal for families. You’ll find restrooms, showers, a picnic area, and plenty of shady lawn. The beach is easily accessible via a walk from the parking lot, or you can use the Makena Road entrance for a shorter stroll and a glimpse of the historic Keawala’i Church.
Snorkeling here is top-notch, with turtles and vibrant fish all around. Entry is sandy and easy—just avoid the shallow rocky center, where the waves can push you into the rocks. Stick to the sides and enjoy this calm, colorful underwater world.
Molokini Crater
Kid-Friendly (Older Kids) • Best Visibility • Boat Access Only
If you want to wow your kids with snorkeling they’ll remember forever, Molokini Crater is the place. This crescent-shaped volcanic crater rises out of the sea a few miles off Maui’s coast and offers some of the clearest water in all of Hawaii—visibility here can reach up to 150 feet!
You’ll need to book a boat tour to get here, and most tours provide snorkel gear, snacks, flotation devices, and even reef-safe sunscreen. Many operators offer early morning departures (the calmest time), and some boats have glass-bottom viewing areas or water slides—great for keeping little ones entertained between dips.
The inside of the crater is calm and perfect for spotting parrotfish, moray eels, butterflyfish, and even the occasional reef shark or octopus. For safety and the best experience, this is best for confident swimmers or older kids. Many tours also include a second snorkel stop at Turtle Town, giving you a two-for-one underwater adventure.
Tip: Pack extra towels and snacks for the boat ride, and bring a waterproof camera if you have one—this is the kind of snorkeling that becomes a family highlight.
Turtle Town – Snorkeling Adventure by Boat
If your family is hoping to spot Hawaiian sea turtles up close, Turtle Town is the place to be! This special snorkeling spot is only accessible by boat and is often included as the second stop on popular tours that visit Molokini Crater.
Turtle Town is named for a reason – Hawaiian green sea turtles love this area! The coral reef is wide and full of life, making it an underwater playground your kids won’t forget. As you float along, you’re likely to see turtles gliding peacefully beneath you or resting on the ocean floor. It’s a magical moment for children and adults alike!
Along with turtles, you’ll also spot bright and beautiful fish like yellow tang, parrotfish, sergeant majors, and the colorful state fish of Hawaii – the Moorish idol. It’s like snorkeling in a real-life aquarium!
Your boat crew will help your family get geared up safely, showing you how to use snorkel masks, fins, and floatation devices – perfect for younger swimmers or first-time snorkelers. They’ll also guide you on how to enter the water and how to keep a respectful distance from sea turtles and marine life, something kids will enjoy learning about as part of their ocean adventure.
Tip: Don’t forget the sunscreen, towels, and a waterproof camera to capture those unforgettable turtle moments!
Have you seen our ranked lists?
Top family friendly Maui hotels
Beaches: Amazing Hawaii – here are the best beaches in Maui ranked
Fun kids activities in Maui
For detailed visitor info, check out the Wikivoyage page on Maui.
