Best Places to Snorkel in Hawaii: 12 Spots Ranked by Island
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Snorkeling in Hawaii is more than swimming with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. That’s an excellent reason to go, but the reefs, lava tubes, and diverse marine life make Hawaii a world-renowned place to put on the mask and fins.
The best places to snorkel in Hawaii are the following:
- The best snorkeling in Hawaii is on Maui, specifically Kapalua Bay, Molokini Crater, Honolua Bay.
- The Big Island’s Kealakekua Bay, Two Step, and Waialea Beach are some of the best on the island.
- The best snorkeling spots on Oahu are Hanauma Bay, Shark’s Cove, and Three Tables.
- Kauai ends our list with Ke’e Beach in Ha’ena State Park, Anini Beach, and Poipu Beach.
My wife Erica and I lived on Oahu and Maui; now we go back to Hawaii multiple times a year to explore and snorkel all the islands. Here is our experience on the best snorkeling in Hawaii.
As one of our 75,489 newsletter readers said, Hawaii is fauna-tastic when it comes to snorkeling.
Your shortlists of the best places to snorkel in Hawaii:
12 Best Snorkeling Spots in Hawaii
For easy reference, here are my favorite snorkeling spots in Hawaii in a comparison table, with the details you need before you go. Keep reading for more information, pictures, and videos.
For your snorkeling safety, the season for the best snorkeling is provided in the table. NOAA identifies two seasons in Hawaii: summer and winter. Summer is between May and October.
| Snorkel Spot | Hawaiian Island | Shore or Boat | Season |
| 1. Honolua Bay | Maui | Shore or Boat | Summer |
| 2. Molokini Crater | Maui | Boat | All-Year |
| 3. Kapalua Bay | Maui | Shore | Summer |
| 4. Kealakekua Bay | Big Island | Shore and Boat | All-Year |
| 5. Two Step | Big Island | Shore | All-Year |
| 6. Waialea Beach | Big Island | Shore | Summer |
| 7. Hanauma Bay | Oahu | Shore | All-Year |
| 8. Shark’s Cove | Oahu | Shore | Summer |
| 9. Three Tables | Oahu | Shore | Summer |
| 10. Ke’e Beach | Kauai | Shore | Summer |
| 11. Anini Beach | Kauai | Shore | Summer |
| 12. Poipu Beach | Kauai | Shore | All-Year |
Videos of the Best Places to Snorkel in Hawaii
Erica and I love sharing our experiences in Hawaii! We find YouTube an excellent medium for sharing travel information to help other Hawaii malihini (visitors).
Here is our collection of the best snorkel spots in Hawaii by island. Click to watch!
1. Maui: The Best Hawaiian Island for Snorkeling
Maui is the best Hawaiian Island for snorkeling. Maui offers the most protected bays, calm seas, translucent waters, year-round snorkeling, and vibrant sea life. One can also snorkel in a crater or take a tour to Lanai for epic snorkeling.
For more proof of Maui’s dominance in snorkeling, see our The Best Hawaiian Island for Snorkeling.
Maui also has the best luck for swimming with sea turtles. The best place to see and swim with sea turtles is Honokeana Cove. It is a rocky cove, next to Napili Bay. It feels like a hidden gem and is the best place to swim with sea turtles on Maui. Napili Bay is also a great place to snorkel, but not in my top three below!
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Honolua Bay
In northwest Maui lies a bay tucked into a sacred Hawaiian Valley. Honolua Bay is not a secret, but it feels hidden and special.
Park your car, hike through the jungle for about 300 yards, and find yourself in a rocky bay.
Swim out for sea turtles, fish, coral, and many other delights. You won’t find restrooms (maybe a portapottie at the parking lot) or a lifeguard, but you will find great snorkeling on either side of the bay.
This is a summer snorkeling spot on Maui, as northwest Maui can get large swells during the winter.
If you prefer a tour, check out Sail Maui’s West Maui Snorkeling Tour (10% off!).
Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater is a famous spot to snorkel on Maui, and it lives up to the hype. With visibility of over 100 feet and a vibrant marine sanctuary, it is a special place to snorkel.
As someone from the Midwest, I am awed to be swimming in a volcanic crater offshore Maui. Hence, it makes my list of the best places to snorkel in Hawaii.
The only way to get here is with a snorkel tour. There are a lot of tour companies to take you out here! Our favorites, with a diverse range of prices and boats, are here: Best Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tours.
Our absolute favorite tour is to beat the crowds to Molokini Crater with this Sunrise Deluxe Snorkel Tour. Wow, worth it every time!
Kapalua Bay
Kapalua Bay is Erica’s second favorite beach on Maui. We lived in Lahaina, so it was convenient to drive up here for snorkeling and paddling. Today, it can get busy, so arrive by 9 am to find parking. There is also a parking fee, but you can use the parking pass at all Kapalua beaches.
Kapalua Bay is an excellent place to walk in from shore to snorkel with sea turtles along the sides of the bay.
See our lists of Maui snorkeling spots for more options!
2. Big Island Snorkeling Spots
The Island of Hawaii (Big Island) is #2 on my best snorkeling spots in Hawaii because it is a new island. The lack of sediment and beaches makes for excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Kealakekua Bay
Snorkeling in front of the Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay is ideal. The reef is vibrant and pristine, plus you have the chance to see Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins in the bay.
You can hike down to the Captain Cook Monument, take a kayak across the bay, or you can take a boat tour. We have done the kayak trip and three boat tours as of this writing. The boat tours make the trip all about snorkeling and learning the history of this amazing bay.
Explore our favorite Captain Cook Snorkeling Tours here.
Two Step
Two Step is a famous Big Island snorkel spot in South Kona. There is a tiny beach here, but the snorkeling entrance is two steps dug into the lava rock.
Conditions are crystal clear, and the reef is abundant with fish. We love this spot! You can also see dolphins in the bay. There are portapotties on site and paid parking. No tour is needed for this Hawaii snorkeling spot!
Waialea Beach (Beach 69)
Waialea Beach is the little sister to Hapuna Beach. While Hapuna Beach is packed with visitors, come over to Waialea Beach for great snorkeling and beach time.
Beach 69 is part of the Hapuna State Park, so your parking pass will work at both locations. This beach has bathrooms, showers, and parking but no lifeguard on duty.
It is a large cove with rock outcroppings. Snorkel close to shore to find marine life and coral.
We have you covered with more Big Island snorkeling spots:
- More Big Island Snorkeling Spots
- 5 Big Island Beginner Snorkeling Spots
- 10 Best Big Island Snorkeling Tours
3. Oahu Snorkeling Spots
Oahu is a gem for snorkeling because there are so many beaches. After Maui, this is another great snorkeling spot in Hawaii for shore access snorkeling. Here are my two favorites.
Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is an eroded cinder cone with a large reef inside. This snorkeling spot in Hawaii is so popular, the County of Honolulu implemented a reservation system. We share tips on getting a reservation in our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary.
We love this snorkeling spot for the lifeguards on duty, education on protecting the reef before you enter, and, of course, the great snorkeling. It lives up to the hype as you can enjoy great snorkeling in shallow water and there is a wonderful beach here.
Hanauma Bay made our list of the Calmest Beaches in Hawaii.
Shark’s Cove
Shark’s Cove is located on Oahu’s famed North Shore. The cove forms a swimming pool for snorkeling and swimming. The water is shallow and a great place for kids.
Lifeguards are on duty, and toilets and showers are near the parking lot. Please don’t leave the cove as strong currents are present.
Shark’s Cove and Three Tables are summer-only snorkel locations. The North Shore gets pounded with large waves in the winter.
Three Tables
Three Tables is a short walk south from Shark’s Cove. Just off the beach are three rocks that give the beach its name.
Enjoy great snorkeling around the rocks!
More Oahu beaches and snorkeling spots are here:
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4. Kauai Snorkeling Spots
Don’t let Kauai being fourth on our list of the best places to snorkel in Hawaii deter you from snorkeling here. Kauai has numerous snorkeling spots from shore and just offshore on a tour.
We did this South Shore Kauai Snorkeling Tour for close encounters with sea turtles, whales, and a blowhole.
Ke’e Beach
If you can get a reservation for entrance and parking at Ha’ena State Park, then this is the place to go snorkeling on Kauai. Ke’e Beach is at the starting point of the Kalalaua Trail (see our Napali Coast Guide) so the Napali cliffs are above you.
The small cove has a reef surrounding it, making it a wonderful place to snorkel on Kauai. As it is in the state park, there is a lifeguard on duty, restrooms, and showers. This is not a place to snorkel in the winter due to large swells.
Anini Beach
We make sure to visit Anini Beach on every trip to Kaua’s North Shore. The beach has a long reef with sea turtles and lots of fish. It is a favorite in our family.
The main beach has lifeguards, showers, and toilets. In our Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary, we take you to our favorite, quiet part of this beach.
Poipu Beach
We stop at Poipu Beach on every trip to Kauai’s South Shore. We love staying at Koloa Landing Resort or Kiahuna Plantation condos, and we’re close to the best beaches in the Poipu area.
Poipu Beach is the jewel in the area. Two crescent-shaped bays come together with a large reef. You will find a lot of fish in the water and sea turtles.
On land, you will find sea turtles resting on the beach. You will also find showers, restrooms, picnic tables, and lifeguards on duty. This beach gets busy, but it is still worth visiting for snorkeling. See here for details: Best Beaches on Kauai.
More of the best snorkeling spots on Kauai, Hawaii:
- Best Snorkeling Tours on Kauai
- Best Napali Coast Boat Tours – including snorkeling tours
- Napali Coast Sea Caves and Snorkeling Tour
When to Snorkel in Hawaii
Erica and I love snorkeling in Hawaii. The warm waters, the coves, the kid-friendly spots, and sea life. That sea life. We have traveled a lot and snorkeled all over the world, yet have never swum so often with sea turtles as in Hawaiian waters.
Any time of year is good to snorkel in Hawaii. But, some islands are better than others during certain months.
The reason is the snorkeling locations. If the best snorkel spots on an island are on the north shore, then the snorkeling will be challenging or nonexistent during the winter. The Bering Sea south of Alaska generates massive waves that batter the northern coasts of the Hawaiian islands. The surfing is epic, but the underwater visibility goes out the window.
Islands like Maui and the Big Island have their best snorkeling on southern and western shores, making them better bets during the winter months.
No matter what island you’re visiting, or when, you’ll want to check out our island guides. These guides will help you plan everything about your trip: when to go, where to stay, what to see and do, and where to eat.
Oahu Travel Guide
Maui Travel Guide
Big Island Travel Guide
Kauai Travel Guide
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Hawaii Water Conditions: Temperature and Waves
Hawaii has warm water year-round. Averaging 77 degrees Fahrenheit, Hawaii is ideal for snorkeling without a wetsuit year-round.
In winter, the ocean temperature drops to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and the air temperature averages a high of 80 degrees Fahrenheit. For Erica and me, that is still plenty warm to go snorkeling in our bikini and shorts, respectively. We can be in the water for an hour or so before feeling cold.
During the summer months of July and August, the water temperature hits 80. It is almost too hot, but who can complain? I love the tropics.
Waves are an important consideration when snorkeling. Waves not only mean tough snorkeling and swimming conditions but also poor visibility.
My rule of thumb for snorkeling: Hold off on snorkeling when you see surfers. If surfers are surfing at the snorkeling beach, visibility will be poor. If you see paddleboarders, jump right in for snorkeling.
The winter season brings winter swells to Hawaii. These swells hit the north shores of the Hawaiian islands. They can also wrap around the island to hit the south shores, but the size is greatly reduced.
Time of Day to Snorkel in Hawaii
The best time of day to snorkel in Hawaii is the morning period. In the afternoon, the tradewinds pick up, causing rougher seas and decreased visibility.
You will notice snorkel tours have reduced pricing for their afternoon trips.
Find the best snorkeling tours on Oahu or Kauai’s kid-friendly snorkeling beaches
Snorkel Safety in Hawaii
We take snorkeling safety seriously, as drowning is the #1 cause of death for Hawaii visitors.
Our biggest Hawaii safety tip is to understand the ocean conditions before you head out. Talk to the lifeguard and check Hawaii Ocean Safety for beach conditions. Most of these snorkeling spots in Hawaii are not lifeguard beaches.
I don’t worry about Shark Attacks in Hawaii, but read that article if you’re concerned.
Snorkeling in Hawaii Tips
- Never snorkel alone; always snorkel with a buddy
- You need flippers to snorkel in the ocean
- Check conditions and lifeguard flags
- If in doubt, don’t go out
- Have proper-fitting snorkel equipment
- Stay close to shore, 100 to 150 feet from shore
- Know your skill level
- Learn the risk factors for Snorkel Induced Rapid Onset Pulmonary Edema (SIROPE) from Hawaii Ocean Watch’s Snorkel Safety Guide.
Protect the Reef
We recommend wearing sun-protective clothing to minimize the amount of sunscreen you apply. Maui and the Big Island require mineral-based sunscreens to protect the reefs. See our Hawaii Reef-Safe Sunscreen Guide to learn more.
Never walk on the coral or the reef. Hence, we recommend not bringing rock shoes in our What to Pack in Hawaii List.
FAQ on Snorkeling in Hawaii
Should I rent or bring snorkel gear?
You can rent or bring your own. Rental shops are in all resort areas, and they’re all local shops. Rentals cost around $15 to $25 a day. You can bring your own, as we usually do, as we snorkel throughout our trip. We have had the snorkel set in our Travel Gear for over five years, and it looks and feels new.
Where is the best snorkeling in Hawaii?
Head just offshore for the reef or go to the sides of the bay to see fish and sea turtles.
Is Maui or the Big Island better for snorkeling?
Maui is better for snorkeling as it has more snorkeling spots compared to the Big Island. On Maui, you will find more beaches for snorkeling from shore, and you will find more tours to unique destinations only accessible by boat.
Can beginners snorkel in Hawaii?
Yes, but you should know your swimming skill level. Hawaii is in the mighty Pacific Ocean. Expect conditions like strong currents and swells. If you can swim and have snorkeled before but aren’t confident, we recommend a guided tour.
Do you need a tour or can you snorkel from shore?
Don’t feel like you have to do a tour for quality snorkeling in Hawaii. This list is a great place to start with excellent shore snorkel locations in Hawaii. We do recommend getting out on the water, and a snorkel tour is a fun way to do that.
What month is best for snorkeling in Hawaii?
The summer months are the best for snorkeling in Hawaii, as you have the best chances of calm ocean conditions and good visibility. July is the best month because it is during the dry season, and hurricanes and tropical storms rarely happen in July.
Related reads:
The Best Hawaiian Island to Visit: Don’t Get It Wrong
How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost for Two People?
The 59 Best Things to Do in Hawaii: Your Ultimate Bucket List
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