Ahihi Cove is my all-time favorite snorkeling spot in Maui. The protected cove in South Maui is part of the Ahihi-Kina’u Natural Area Reserve and is home to a huge diversity of fish and marine life. Sea turtles hang out from time to time, but keep your honu expectations low for this snorkel stop and you won’t be disappointed!
SECRET: Get an early start for the calmest water and to avoid the crowds. Sunny days are best for water clarity.
To access the cove, drive south on S. Makena Road (south of Wailea) to the new parking lot at the start of the lava fields. You’ll see the rocky cove just on the side of the road before you get to the parking lot. As you walk back to the cove, stay on the path close to the wall enclosing the waterfront estate as the road here is narrow.
Enter the water on the north side of the cove where there is an underwater concrete pad to make entry a little easier. Sit on the pad to put on your fins to avoid a rocky fall. If you aren’t an avid snorkeler, using some sort of float will help you get out of the cove to deeper depths. The water within the cove is usually calm and suitable for children, but only if they can manage the rocky entrance. You don’t have to swim far to snorkel as the shallow waters are teeming with spectacular marine life. The water starts at about knee deep and gradually gets deeper, so there’s a variety of depths for all skill levels.
SECRET: For intermediate to advanced snorkelers, swim out of the cove to the left (toward the large lava rocks sticking out of the water). You’ll be rewarded with clearer water and even more sea life. This is my favorite spot!
Rule of thumb when snorkeling near rocks and reefs —if you see white bubbles underwater from crashing waves, avoid that area. Otherwise, you can safely float above the reef.
On your way back into the cove, take your time to enjoy the shallows and you might be awarded with an octopus, lobster or eel sighting. If you didn’t see a turtle on this stop, be sure to stop at a Makena beach on your way back to town.
Panorama of Ahihi Cove in South Maui
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