If you’re looking for the perfect place to snorkel with Hawaiian green sea turtles, look no further than Turtle Town, also known as Maluaka Beach. Nestled along the calm, sun-drenched shores of South Maui, this hidden gem offers an unforgettable underwater experience—one that blends accessibility, biodiversity, and scenic beauty into a single, magical destination.
Why Turtle Town Is One of Maui’s Top Snorkeling Spots
Turtle Town isn’t just a nickname—it’s a promise. This stretch of coastline is one of the best places on Maui to spot Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) in their natural habitat. The reef just offshore teems with marine life, and thanks to the beach’s sandy bottom and gentle slope, it’s a welcoming spot for both first-timers and seasoned snorkelers.
The clear, calm waters offer excellent visibility, often up to 50 feet on good days. That means you won’t just catch glimpses—you’ll get front-row views of sea turtles gracefully gliding through the reef, butterflyfish darting through coral formations, and even the occasional parrotfish crunching on coral.
Best Time to Snorkel at Turtle Town
Morning is the sweet spot. The ocean tends to be at its calmest early in the day, which means better visibility, gentler currents, and fewer crowds. If you’re hoping for a peaceful, immersive experience with Maui’s underwater world, aim to arrive before 10 AM.
What You’ll See While Snorkeling at Turtle Town
🐢 Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
These peaceful marine reptiles are the stars of the show. They’re often seen resting near the reef or swimming along the sandy bottom—just remember to keep your distance and let them go about their business.
🐠 Tropical Reef Fish
Expect to see vibrant schools of butterflyfish, parrotfish, and triggerfish. These reef dwellers bring bursts of color and movement to the underwater landscape.
🪸 Coral Gardens
While not as expansive as some other snorkeling spots, the coral here—especially near the rocky outcrops at either end of the beach—adds texture and shelter to the marine environment. You’ll find plenty of small invertebrates and fish using them as their home base.
Location & How to Get There
Turtle Town is located in the Makena area of South Maui, about 3 miles south of the Wailea resort area. Use these coordinates if navigating by GPS:
📍 20.64687° N, 156.44308° W
From Kihei:
Head south on Piʻilani Highway (HI-31), then turn left onto Wailea Ike Drive. Continue on Wailea Alanui Drive for 2 miles, then turn right onto Makena Road. Look for Keawalaʻi Church and the beach parking lot just beyond.
From Lahaina:
Take Honoapiilani Highway (HI-30) toward Maʻalaea, then merge onto Piʻilani Highway (HI-31). Continue toward Kihei and follow the same route as above.
From Wailea:
Simply head south on Wailea Alanui Drive, turn onto Makena Road, and follow signs to the beach near Keawalaʻi Church.
Parking Information
There are two main public parking options:
- North Beach Parking Lot – Located near Keawalaʻi Church on Makena Road. This is the larger of the two lots and offers restrooms and outdoor showers.
- South Beach Parking Lot – Accessible via Makena Keonoio Road. It’s smaller and fills up fast, but has a paved trail directly to the beach.
Pro tip: Arrive early to secure a spot—especially on weekends or holidays.
Nearby Attractions to Round Out Your Day
After snorkeling, take advantage of other nearby sights and cultural gems:
- ʻĀhihi-Kīnaʻu Natural Area Reserve – A volcanic coastline with some of the most untouched marine environments in Maui.
- Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge – A peaceful place to view native Hawaiian birds and migratory waterfowl.
- Maui Ocean Center – A world-class aquarium in Maʻalaea focused entirely on Hawaiian marine life.
- South Maui Coastal Heritage Corridor – A 15-mile stretch of scenic coastline with interpretive signs, access trails, and rich Hawaiian history.
Whether you’re hoping to swim alongside a sea turtle, explore colorful reefs, or just relax on a tranquil beach, Turtle Town (Maluaka Beach) checks every box. With its calm waters, abundant marine life, and easy access, it’s the ideal Maui snorkeling spot for travelers of all ages and experience levels.
If you’re planning a snorkeling trip to Maui, don’t skip Turtle Town—it’s one of those rare places that actually lives up to the hype.
