Looking for a safe, family-friendly snorkeling spot in South Maui? Poolenalena Beach, located between Wailea and Makena, is a hidden gem ideal for snorkeling with kids. With easy water access, calm morning conditions, three distinct snorkel zones, and frequent sea turtle sightings, it’s one of the best beaches for families to explore Maui’s underwater life.
Unlike the more crowded resort beaches nearby, Poolenalena is less developed and often less crowded, giving parents a bit more peace of mind when snorkeling with children. This guide covers everything families need to know about snorkeling at Poolenalena Beach: where to park, which snorkel spots are best, what conditions to expect, and safety considerations when visiting with kids.
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Where Is Poolenalena Beach?
Poolenalena Beach is in Makena, just south of Wailea in South Maui. It’s also sometimes referred to as Po‘olenalena Beach or Chang’s Beach (at the southern end). It’s about a 10-minute drive from Kihei, and about 35 minutes from Kahului Airport.
You can find Poolenalena Beach nestled between Palauea Beach to the north and Makena Beach to the south—two other kid-friendly beaches featured in our Best Family Snorkeling Beaches on Maui guide.
Parking and Beach Access
Poolenalena has two main public access points:
1. South Entrance (Makena Surf Access)
- Closest to the best snorkeling spot at the left rocky point
- Small parking lot (fills quickly)
- Access path goes through the Makena Surf condo property
- Facilities: A freshwater shower available near the beach
2. North Entrance (Po‘olenalena Beach Park)
- Larger parking lot with easier beach access
- Porta-potties available
- Closer to the middle rocky point for snorkeling
Pro Tip for Families: If you’re snorkeling with young children or have gear to carry, the northern access may be easier due to its proximity to the beach. However, if you’re targeting the best coral and turtle sightings, plan ahead to arrive early at the south entrance.
When to Snorkel: Morning is Best
Like most South Maui beaches, Poolenalena offers the calmest and clearest conditions in the morning, typically before 11 AM. Winds tend to pick up by midday, which stirs up sand and decreases visibility. Families should plan to arrive early for both better snorkeling and easier parking.
Snorkeling Conditions and Water Entry
Poolenalena has a wide, sandy beach with gentle slopes into the water, making it one of the easiest beaches for kids to enter barefoot. You can comfortably walk in before putting on your fins once you start to float.
At the left end of the beach, there are a few exposed rocks, but they are easy to avoid. Overall, this is a low-hazard entry point for beginner snorkelers and families.
Snorkeling Video at Po’olenalena Beach
The 3 Best Snorkeling Spots at Poolenalena Beach
There are three main snorkeling zones at Poolenalena Beach, all located near rocky outcroppings.
1. Left End (Near Chang’s Beach) – Best Spot for Turtles and Coral
- Swim distance: About 900 feet from Poolenalena to Chang’s Beach
- Depth: Ranges from 5 to 25 feet, with a drop-off wall reaching 40 feet
- Highlights:
- Excellent reef formations (spur and groove)
- Multiple green sea turtle sightings
- Unique underwater cleaning station where fish groom turtles
- Caves and fish near the wall toward Chang’s Beach
Safety Tip: This area can have some surge, and tour boats occasionally anchor nearby, so keep an eye on boat traffic and conditions before taking kids too far out.
2. Middle Rocky Point – Convenient Access from North Lot
- Closest to: Northern parking area and main entrance
- Depth: Around 8 feet, with reef extending 400 feet offshore
- Highlights:
- Decent coral reef with shallow topography
- Easier swim for beginners or families with younger kids
- Frequent turtle sightings (we saw six here!)
Note: Conditions here can be choppier than other areas, which might affect visibility. Always assess conditions before heading out with kids.
3. Right End (Near Palauea Beach) – Remote and Best for Older Kids
This area is technically better accessed from Palauea Beach, which is a short walk or drive to the north. It’s a rockier shoreline with fewer visitors and decent reef structure, but the entry is more difficult—recommended for confident swimmers or families with older kids.
We cover this access in more detail in our Maui Snorkeling Beaches for Families guide.
Facilities at Poolenalena Beach
- Showers: One available at the southern entrance
- Restrooms: Porta-potties available at the northern lot
- Shade: Limited—bring umbrellas or sunshades for children
- No lifeguards: Parents should always supervise kids closely in the water
Is Poolenalena Beach Good for Kids?
Yes, Poolenalena Beach is a solid choice for families, especially those looking for quieter snorkeling spots in Maui. The sand is soft and wide, the entry points are gentle, and marine life is abundant if you swim out to the right zones.
However, it’s best suited for:
- Families with elementary-age children or older
- Beginner-to-intermediate snorkelers
- Parents who want to avoid crowded resort beaches
For younger kids or those brand-new to snorkeling, consider starting at Ulua Beach or Napili Bay, both featured in our Top Maui Beaches for Families list.
Final Tips for Parents
- Arrive early for calm water and easier parking
- Bring your own gear – rentals are not available at Poolenalena
- Stay near the shore with younger snorkelers or when visibility drops
- Watch for boats and waves before venturing past the reef
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.
