Snorkeling with Turtles in Maui

Maui is known for its warm weather, white sandy beaches and of course its sea turtles. Snorkeling is the easiest way to encounter these beautiful creatures. Many of our visitors choose to book an excursion to Molokini and Turtle town, which is a the second site of the coast of South Maui where you can snorkel with sea turtles.

Turtle Town is well known for its colorful sea life, underwater rock formations and abundant sea turtles. The most common sea turtle in Maui is the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle also known as the Honu in Hawaiian. In 1978, Honu were declared an endangered species and it is illegal to touch or harass them. Sea turtles are calm creatures and appreciate space and distance, but when you stay calm and relaxed, they will likely swim close to you.

Here is what to expect on a typical Molokini and turtle town snorkel tour. The boats depart from Maaleaa Harbor about 7 am. First stop is Molokini which takes about 50 minutes to get there. On the way to Molokini the crew will open up the continental breakfast which will consist of fruits, pastries, coffee and juice. Once at Molokini, you can partake in a complimentary snorkel lesson, or just get right in and start snorkeling if you are comfortable. Make sure to grab a flotation device or boogie board if you like. You
will have about 1.5 hours at Molokini and then the crew will call you in and you will head to your second snorkel destination, Turtle Town or Turtle Arches. You are a now a pro at this snorkeling thing so you will be jumping right in to snorkel with the green sea turtles. The crew will prepare lunch and when you get back on the boat you can enjoy a barbecue and deli lunch. You may even have a bar on your boat where you can enjoy a beer, wine or Mai Tai for the ride back to the harbor. You can expect to return to  the harbor between 12 pm and 1 pm. Snorkeling at Molokini and Turtle Town is sure to be one of your greatest adventures on Maui!