Makena Landing is your gateway to Turtle Town, a stretch of South Maui coastline that offers some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii. Especially if your goal is to see Hawaiian green sea turtles up close in their natural habitat. Tucked between lava rock outcroppings and gentle coves, this calm, protected bay boasts crystal-clear waters, healthy coral reefs, and consistent turtle sightings year-round.
What makes Makena so special isn’t just the marine life. It’s the entire experience. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the area’s peaceful, low-key vibe. Locals and in-the-know visitors prefer Makena over busier beaches like Wailea or Kaanapali for a reason: the reefs here are alive, the water is generally calm in the mornings, and turtles are everywhere, gliding through the water or resting on the ocean floor.
Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler looking for an easy entry into the water or a seasoned ocean adventurer seeking a less-crowded alternative to Molokini, Makena Landing delivers. The reef begins just steps from shore, making it ideal for self-guided snorkeling. But for the ultimate experience, book a guided kayak and snorkel tour, most of them launch directly from Makena’s small boat ramp and head south along the coast to the heart of Turtle Town, where visibility is best and turtle activity peaks.
Here, you won’t just snorkel. You’ll immerse yourself in one of Maui’s most vibrant underwater ecosystems. Expect to see honu grazing on algae-covered rocks, colorful reef fish darting between coral heads, and maybe even an octopus or two hiding in crevices.
Why Snorkel at Makena Landing?
Frequent Turtle Sightings
Makena Landing is one of the most reliable places on Maui to see sea turtles in the wild. Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) are often spotted grazing on algae-covered rocks near shore or gracefully cruising along the reef. These gentle giants are protected by law and beloved by locals and visitors alike. Snorkeling in the early morning gives you the best chance of seeing them clearly, as the ocean is typically calm and visibility is at its peak. It’s not uncommon to see multiple turtles in a single snorkel session, especially near the reef edges around Turtle Town.
Calm, Shallow Waters – Ideal for Beginners
Makena Bay’s naturally protected shape shields the water from strong currents and waves, creating a safe and inviting environment for beginner snorkelers and families with kids. Entry is from a gently sloping beach or the boat ramp, and the reef begins just a short swim from shore. Water depths range from just a few feet near shore to 10–20 feet farther out, making it easy to explore at your own comfort level. No long swims or deep dives required—just put on your mask and fins, and float into an underwater wonderland.
Rich Marine Biodiversity
Beyond turtles, Makena’s reef is a living aquarium. You’re likely to encounter schools of vibrant butterflyfish, parrotfish, wrasses, and angelfish darting through coral formations. Keep an eye out for Moorish idols, eels peeking from lava crevices, and even the occasional octopus or white-tip reef shark if you venture a bit farther. The diversity of marine life makes every snorkel here different—and always memorable. It’s a great place to practice underwater photography or simply soak in the serenity of Maui’s marine ecosystem.
🚤 Easy Tour Access Right from Shore
Makena Landing isn’t just a snorkeler’s paradise. It’s also a hub for top-rated snorkeling tours. Many local operators launch their small group kayak-snorkel or powerboat tours directly from the landing’s boat ramp, so you won’t need to drive elsewhere or deal with crowded departure points. Tours typically head south toward Turtle Town and Five Graves/Five Caves, offering deeper water access and a better chance to see larger marine species. Most tours include snorkel gear, flotation devices, and a marine naturalist guide who will point out sea life and ensure your safety.
Best Time to Visit Makena Landing
The best time to snorkel at Makena Landing is during Maui’s dry season, from May through September, when ocean conditions are generally at their calmest. Mornings—especially before 10 AM—offer the clearest visibility, gentlest waves, and the highest chance of spotting sea turtles close to shore.
During this time of year, the wind is light, the water is warm, and marine life is active. It’s perfect for early risers looking to beat the crowds and enjoy serene snorkeling conditions.
What to Avoid
- Afternoons can bring stronger winds and surface chop, which stirs up sediment and reduces visibility.
- South swells, more common during summer months, can cause stronger currents and crashing waves along the shore, making entry more difficult and tours more likely to cancel.
- Winter (November to March) sees more frequent storms and rougher seas. While snorkeling is still possible, you’ll need to check the forecast and ocean conditions carefully.
Local Tip
Tours typically monitor ocean forecasts closely and will cancel or reroute if conditions aren’t safe. Booking a morning tour not only gives you the best visibility, it gives you the best shot at going out at all.
Snorkeling Tips for Makena Landing
Whether you’re snorkeling on your own or joining a guided tour, a little preparation goes a long way at Makena Landing. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe, protect the reef, and have the best possible experience:
- Arrive Early
Makena Landing has a small parking area that fills up fast, especially on weekends and holidays. Most guided turtle snorkel tours launch early in the morning to take advantage of calm ocean conditions—so plan to arrive by 7:30–8:00 AM if you’re going solo. Early arrival also means better visibility, fewer people in the water, and more active wildlife.
- Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
It’s not just a suggestion—it’s the law in Hawaiʻi. Sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned because they harm coral reefs. Choose a mineral-based sunscreen (look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide), and apply it at least 15 minutes before getting in the water. Or better yet, wear a rash guard with UPF protection to skip sunscreen entirely on your upper body.
- Bring Water Shoes or Reef Booties
The entry at Makena Landing can be rocky and uneven, especially near the boat ramp and tide pools. Water shoes help protect your feet from sharp rocks, sea urchins, and slippery surfaces, making your entry and exit much easier and safer.
- Keep a Safe Distance from Sea Turtles
Hawaiian green sea turtles are a protected species, and approaching them too closely can stress the animal and result in fines. Always maintain a distance of at least 10 feet (3 meters)—both for their safety and yours. Let the turtles come to you if they’re curious, but never chase, touch, or block their path to the surface.
- Stay Close to Shore
While visibility improves slightly farther out, so do currents and wind exposure. Unless you’re with an experienced guide, it’s best to stay nearshore, where the reef is still vibrant and turtle sightings are frequent. Pay attention to your position relative to the shoreline and avoid drifting too far south or into boat launch areas.
- Consider a Guided Snorkel or Kayak Tour
Makena Landing is easy to access, but local conditions change quickly. A guided tour offers peace of mind and insider knowledge, including the best reefs to explore, how to approach turtles responsibly, and how to stay safe in changing tides. Most tours include snorkel gear, floatation devices, and a certified marine guide who’ll help you make the most of your time in Turtle Town.
