|
Miles and miles of beautiful beaches await you for your snorkeling pleasure. Be sure to watch for big surf and don’t go in if there are red flags on the beach. Look for water with good visibility and some of the best spots are along rocky shorelines, but be careful not to let the waves beat you up against the rocks, you can get some pretty nasty cuts and scraps that way. Many of these great snorkeling areas are right near resorts, and during the winter can have some pretty large waves.
Kapalua Bay:
Here is a perfect spot for the beginner. There is good snorkeling the whole year round here. The parking lot is close by and a paved walkway makes it a breeze to get to the water. You will see all types of fish here, and even some eels and octopus, but rarely any turtles. You will find restrooms, and showers located on the beach for your convenience.
Black Rock:
This is a great spot for all snorkeling fanatics. This is considered to be the best snorkeling on Kaanapali Beach. This is an unusual rock formation that sits right behind the Sheraton Kaanapali Resort. The fish are quite tame here so bring frozen peas so you can feed them from your hand. Lots of fish surround this area and there is a chance you might see a turtle or two swim by. You will find lots of facilities in the area, rest rooms, restaurants, showers, and plenty of equipment rentals.
Papalua, Coral Gardens and 1000 Peaks:
This area is located at the end of Papalua Beach near the highway tunnel. The coral here is spectacular and some of the best in the area. The entrance to the area is in the beach right where the shoreline changes to rocks. You will be treated to lots of turtles, and a large variety of reef fish. These fish are a bit more timid and you may or may not be able to feed them, so approach with caution. You will find no facilities here, just a port-a-john and a pay phone. To park you will have to pull off the side of the highway.
Olowalu, Mile Marker 14:
This is a very nice place to snorkel, due to its reasonably safe and shallow area. Parking is a breeze just pull off the road. You’ll probably have to go out about 300 feet for some of the best snorkeling, but it will be worth it. There are lots of coral and small reef fish here, and lots and lots of turtles. Towards the outside of the bay and heading west you will fine lots of black and white tip reef sharks. There are no facilities here to speak of, but you will find the Olawalu general store if you want a drink or snack.
Honolua and Mokuleia Bay:
This is a great place to snorkel or dive from during the summer months. In the winter surfing is great at this location. The biggest downfall is access if difficult, it is a long walk to get here. You will have to go through private land to get there so respect the people living there. You will usually find a lot of turtles, octopus, turkey fish, parrot fish, surgeon fish, and trumpet fish here. Occasionally you will see an eagle ray or two. Be cautious of boats in the area, and of heavy currents.
| 
