11/8/09

Best Hawaii Snorkeling: Maui Hotspots

With more swimmable beaches than any other Hawaiian island, it's no wonder that some of the best Hawaii snorkeling is found on Maui. Whether you're hoping to catch a glimpse of dolphins, sea turtles or simply want an off-island adventure, you've come to the right place. Let's review some of the most popular touring options.

Perhaps one of the best loved snorkeling spots on the island, Honolua Bay on the north western end of Maui abounds with a diversity of marine life – thanks to its status as a Marine Life Conservation District. There are high, rocky cliffs on both sides keeping the waters calm and an old cement boat ramp dividing the shoreline in two. Snorkeling is best on the right side of the ramp, where the sea floor is rockier.

Kapalua bay is another good place to find a protected cove ideal for snorkeling. Also found on the northwest side of Maui, Kapalua's calm waters are a good place to bring the kids or anyone new to snorkeling, unsure of their abilities.

Ka'anapali Beach, on Maui's western coast, has been rated one of the best beaches in the world with its three mile long stretch of white, powdery sand and well-mannered surf.  There are lots of amenities close by, including the Whaler's Village and several popular hotels so it's a good place to find snorkeling, beaching, and accommodations all in one spot.

If you're looking for turtles, a good place to find them is in Turtle Town, a stretch of coastline running between Nahuna Point and Black Sand Beach on Maui's southwest side. Haleakala protects much of south Maui from the wind, making it an ideal location for good snorkeling most of the year.

Of course, no snorkeling trip on Maui would be complete without visiting Molokini Crater, a small volcanic island about 3 miles off Maui's southwestern coast. Although Molokini is only accessible by boat, it boasts some of the best snorkeling and diving in all Hawaii. On a clear day, visibility can exceed 150 ft and exotic creatures ranging from humpback whales to monk seals have been known to frequent the area.

Of course, these are just some of the best Hawaii snorkeling spots, but they give you a feel for where to start while adventuring on Maui. Most of these adventures can be set up as tour boat day trips complete with meals, activities for the kids and interpretive guides to help you understand what you're seeing along the way.  It's a great way to maximize your experience if you're short on time or simply don't want the hassle of trying to get from Point A to Point B on your own.

Finding the best Hawaii snorkeling spots can lead you on the adventure of a lifetime – an adventure so good that you may think twice about catching your flight home!

For more information about the best Hawaii snorkeling spots and one-stop Hawaii adventure planning, visit www.alohatopten.com.

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