Turtle Town (Maluaka Beach), is a premier snorkeling destination located along Maui’s southern coastline. This pristine beach is renowned for its tranquil waters, abundant marine life, and accessibility, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Its calm and clear waters provide excellent visibility, offering snorkelers an intimate glimpse into Hawaii’s vibrant underwater ecosystem. The beach’s gentle waves and sandy entry points make it suitable for individuals of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned snorkelers.
Turtle Town is particularly famous for its frequent sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles. In addition to turtles, the thriving coral reefs are home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish species such as butterflyfish, parrotfish, and triggerfish.
The beach’s unique combination of calm conditions, rich biodiversity, and scenic beauty makes it a must-visit spot for anyone seeking an authentic Hawaiian snorkeling experience.
Snorkeling Conditions
The waters at the beach are renowned for their clarity and calmness, providing excellent visibility for snorkelers. The gentle slope of the sandy bottom facilitates easy entry into the ocean, making it accessible for individuals of all skill levels. The area near the rocky outcrops at either end of the beach is particularly rich in marine life, offering vibrant underwater landscapes.
Best time to visit
To fully appreciate the underwater beauty of this spot, it’s advisable to plan your snorkeling excursions during the morning hours. During this time, the ocean is typically at its calmest, ensuring optimal visibility and a more tranquil experience. Additionally, mornings are less crowded, allowing for a more intimate interaction with the marine environment.
Marine Life
This is a haven for marine enthusiasts, offering encounters with a variety of species.
Green Sea Turtles
These gentle creatures are frequently spotted grazing near the reefs, providing snorkelers with memorable sightings.
Tropical Fish
The reefs are teeming with species such as butterflyfish, parrotfish, and triggerfish, adding vibrant colors to the underwater scenery.
Coral Formations
The southern end of the beach features diverse coral structures that serve as habitats for various marine organisms, enhancing the snorkeling experience.
Location
Situated in the Makena area of South Maui, approximately 3 miles south of the Wailea resort area.
For precise navigation, you can use the following coordinates: 20.64687° N, 156.44308° W.
Driving directons
From Kihei
- Head south on Piilani Highway (HI-31) until it transitions into Wailea Ike Drive.
- Turn left onto Wailea Alanui Drive and continue for approximately 2 miles.
- Turn right onto Makena Road. After about 0.75 miles, you’ll see Keawala’i Church on your right and a beach parking lot adjacent to it.
From Lahaina
- Take Honoapiilani Highway (HI-30) southbound towards Maalaea Harbor.
- Merge onto Piilani Highway (HI-31) eastbound towards Kihei.
- Follow the directions from Kihei.
From Wailea
- Proceed south on Wailea Alanui Drive.
- Turn right onto Makena Road.
- Continue as directed to reach the beach parking area near Keawala’i Church.
Parking Information and Tips
The beach offers two main public parking lots, both free of charge. One is North Beach Parking. It is located near Keawala’i Church along Makena Road, this larger parking lot provides convenient access to the northern part of the beach. Amenities such as restrooms and showers are available near this lot.
The other is South Beach Parking. It is a smaller lot accessible via Makena Keonoio Road, this area offers a paved path leading directly to the beach. Due to limited spaces, it’s advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.
Nearby Attractions
Turtle Town is not only a haven for snorkelers but also a gateway to several nearby attractions that showcase Maui’s rich natural and cultural heritage. Here are some noteworthy sites to consider exploring:.
ʻĀhihi-Kīnaʻu Natural Area Reserve
Located just a short drive south of Maluaka Beach, the ʻĀhihi-Kīnaʻu Natural Area Reserve is a protected coastal lava field and marine ecosystem
Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
Situated between the towns of Kihei and Maalaea, the Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge is a 691-acre coastal salt marsh that serves as a sanctuary for various waterfowl and migratory birds
Maui Ocean Center
Located in Maalaea, the Maui Ocean Center is an acclaimed aquarium and oceanography center that exclusively showcases marine life found in Hawaiian waters.
South Maui Coastal Heritage Corridor
The South Maui Coastal Heritage Corridor is a recreational and tourism initiative aimed at preserving and providing public access to South Maui’s 15-mile leeward coastline.