Snorkeling Black Rock at Ka’anapali Beach is one of the top family-friendly activities on Maui. Families visiting Ka’anapali Beach will find that snorkeling at Black Rock (Pu’u Keka’a) offers safe water entry, clear visibility, and a chance to see tropical fish and sea turtles close to shore. Although Black Rock snorkeling can get busy, Ka’anapali Beach’s large size means families can still find space to enjoy the experience. Snorkeling Black Rock is ideal for parents looking for an easy, memorable snorkeling adventure without needing a boat tour.
If you’re planning a family trip to snorkel here, it’s important to know about water conditions, access points, parking options, and safety tips — especially because the currents around the point can sometimes be strong. Here’s everything parents need to know before snorkeling Black Rock with kids.
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Why Families Love Black Rock for Snorkeling
While Black Rock isn’t known for having vibrant coral reefs like other spots (such as Kapalua Bay), it offers a chance to see lots of colorful fish, sea turtles, and sometimes even Spotted Eagle Rays.
The rock wall creates a natural habitat for marine life, and because of the sheltered location, the water often has excellent clarity. Families can enjoy observing schools of fish close to shore without needing to swim out too far, making it a manageable and fun snorkeling experience for beginners and kids.
How to Get to Black Rock at Ka’anapali Beach
Families not staying at one of the Ka’anapali Beach resorts can still access Black Rock through public shoreline access.
- Parking: Public parking is limited near the resorts, so it’s best to arrive early — ideally before 9:00 AM, especially during school holidays or summer months.
- Access Path: From the public parking garage, look for the Shoreline Access Sign No. 213. A paved 750-foot sidewalk leads directly to the beach.
- Walk to Snorkeling Spot: Once you reach the sand, walk right (north) along the beach another 750 feet toward Black Rock.
Tip: Carry your snorkeling gear (not wear it) until you get close to the water to make the walk easier for kids.
Water Entry: A Family-Friendly Start
Ka’anapali Beach has soft, golden sand that’s easy on bare feet, making it simple for children and parents to enter the water barefoot.
- Entry Point: Enter the water at the north end of the beach near Black Rock.
- Gear Tip: Walk out into waist-deep water before putting on fins to avoid awkward walking with gear on the sand.
- Conditions to Watch: Always check conditions before getting in. If the waves seem rough or currents appear strong, it may not be the right day to snorkel with young children.
Best Areas to Snorkel Around Black Rock
The best snorkeling at Black Rock happens along the rocky wall at the north end:
- Stay Close to the Wall: Families should follow the edge of the rock where fish congregate. There is some living coral, though most of the coral near shore is dead.
- Fish and Marine Life: Expect to see schools of goatfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, and sometimes sea turtles.
- Cautions About Currents:
- Beginner Families: Stay on the beach-facing side of Black Rock and avoid swimming around the point where currents can become strong.
- Experienced Swimmers Only: If conditions are calm and parents are confident swimmers, it’s possible to explore further around the outside wall.
- Depth: Beyond the point, the depth increases to about 30 feet, and the wall becomes steeper.
Bonus: Keep an eye out for Spotted Eagle Rays swimming in the deep blue off the point — a special sight for older kids who are strong swimmers!
Snorkeling Video at Black Rock
Important Safety Tips for Families
- Buddy System: Always snorkel in pairs or groups.
- Watch the Weather: Avoid snorkeling during rough surf, after heavy rain, or on windy afternoons.
- Stay Visible: Consider using a brightly colored snorkel float or rash guard so children are easier to spot.
- Know When to Turn Back: If anyone gets tired or conditions worsen, head back to shore early.
Facilities Near Black Rock
- Facilities: Unless your family is staying at a nearby resort (like Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa), there are no public restrooms, showers, or food stands directly at Black Rock.
- What to Bring: Pack snacks, water, reef-safe sunscreen, towels, and possibly an umbrella or beach tent for shade.
Tip: Find more advice on Packing for a Family Beach Day in Maui
Final Thoughts: Is Black Rock Right for Your Family?
Snorkeling at Black Rock is a memorable family experience for many visitors to Maui. With its easy beach entry, calm conditions (on good days), and abundance of tropical fish, it’s a great choice for confident beginner snorkelers and families with older children.
However, parents should remain cautious about currents and only explore further around the rock when conditions are safe. With good planning, snorkeling Black Rock at Ka’anapali Beach can easily become one of your family’s favorite memories in Maui.
Ready for the next snorkeling adventure? Check out Family Snorkeling Guide to Honolua Bay — another excellent spot for family snorkeling in West Maui!
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.
