Where Is The Best Snorkeling In Maui In February?

Maui offers a variety of snorkeling spots, including Molokini Crater, Ahihi Cove, Maluaka Beach (Turtle Town), and Olulu Beach. The Big Island is the best snorkeling spot in Hawaii in February due to its well-protected bays and coves shielding it from wind, strong currents, and waves. A step-by-step itinerary takes you to the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights on Maui.

During the snorkel excursion, you will be taken to various sites such as Honolua Bay, Cliff House, Oluwalu, Mala Wharf, Makuleia Bay, and Kapalua Bay, which are filled with stunning marine life not found on typical beaches. La Perouse Bay, the furthest location from West Maui, boasts a beautiful reef.

On Maui, Wailea, Makena, Kihei, Maalaea, Olowalu, Lahaina, and Kāʻanapali are on the leeward side, offering calm and sandy summer beaches. Kaheliki Beach, also known as Airport Beach, is a favorite spot for shore snorkeling.

Maui provides the most protected bays and coves for snorkeling during winter. Turtle Town is considered one of Maui’s finest snorkeling locations and is suitable for visitors of all experience levels. Honolua Bay, located north of Kapalua, is protected from North Swells and is good unless there is a storm to the west.

Riding horses on Maui is a must-do experience with perfect temperatures for outdoor activities. Mendez Ranch and Makena Stables offer rides along the water. Ulua Beach, nestled along Maui’s scenic southwestern coastline, is a superb snorkeling spot for beginners.

Snorkeling in Maui is possible year-round, but April, May, September, and October are the best spots due to calm waters, good visibility, and good visibility.

Can you snorkel in Maui in February?

Lahaina, Maui is the driest and calmest weather on Maui. Temperatures range from 70’s to the 90’s during winter months. Because Lahaina town is located at the base of the West Maui Mountains, a lee provides protection from many of the winter storms that impact other parts of the island. Scattered tropical showers are typical in Maui’s winter months, and sometimes only last a few minutes. Other parts of the island (even just a few minutes north in Kaanapali) will experience rainier and cooler weather! Due to increased rainfall in these locations, snorkeling from the shoreline should be done cautiously as run off makes water murky and unsafe. In this case, taking a private boat for a snorkel tour may be the safest and best option for snorkeling in Maui during winter months.

Most of your vacation days will be sunny and warm in Lahaina in February, with an occasional cloudy day with temperatures still in the 80’s.

Activities. Vacationing in February is a great time for activities on Maui! Some activities on Maui are seasonal, like whale watching, and February is the peak time for this world class ocean activity! Because of whale migration the Maui Nui Basin becomes a protected sanctuary for the whales from December 15th-April 15th every year, putting a hold on activities like parasailing and jet skiing, so more boats can safely whale watch during the winter months.

Humpback Whales migrate from Alaska every year to Maui to mate and give birth. They travel in what we call a trickle migration which means some begin traveling here in November/December and the last ones leave around April/May. The majority of the population will be in Maui in the month of February, making it the most popular month for whale watching. Humpback whales go through periods of rest and activity 24 hours a day when they are in Maui, so any time you whale watch you have equal opportunity to see whales! Whales can be found singing solo, swimming mom and calf pairs, followed by a male escort, or every large group of whales in competition pods, males following and competing for a female’s attention. Surface behaviors you may observe include pec fin and tail slapping, sailing, spy hopping and of course the classic breach! Because whales are protected in Hawaii we do not approach them closer than 100 yards. Often they do choose to come closer to us, and in those cases we stop our boats for their safety and hang out with them! This is called a “mugging” when the humpback whales come close to the boats!

What time is best for snorkeling in Maui?

6. Pick The Right Time. You can snorkel on Maui pretty much anytime there is sunlight however there are times that are more prime than others. Snorkeling during the times from 8am – 3pm is ideal!

7. Snorkel With Good Visibility. Only snorkel in clear water. Maui’s ocean water is generally pretty clear all year round. It usually only gets murky after a heavy rain, nothing worse than a murky day when you’re trying to go snorkeling. Make sure to check the conditions before you head to the beach.

8. Stay Close!. Sometimes you might be following a group of spotted eagle rays or a beautiful sea creature and loose track of where you swam to. You never want to be more than 50 yards from the closest beach.

Is February a good month for Maui?

February marks a transition from the rainy season, with sporadic showers being a possibility. However, the overall humidity levels are relatively low, offering visitors a pleasant and comfortable atmosphere. Daytime temperatures range between 78°F (25.6°C) to 63°F (17.2°C), with minimal rainfall averaging around 1.68 inches. The waters surrounding Maui in February are invitingly warm, averaging around 74°F (23°C). This makes it an excellent time for snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water-based adventures.

A highlight of February is the Maui Whale Festival. This month-long festival celebrates the return of migrating humpback whales to Maui Nui. This event aims to engage residents, visitors, and a global audience in supporting ocean conservation efforts. The festival includes activities like the Race for Whales, a virtual event allowing participants worldwide to track their movement throughout the month. Completing 43 miles earns a commemorative medal, symbolizing PWF’s 43 years of dedication to marine conservation. Additionally, the festival features community beach cleanups, providing opportunities for hands-on conservation efforts. The Education team will also participate in the Art & Education Expo, offering interactive learning experiences for all ages during Whale Trust’s annual Whale Tales event on February 17th and 18th.

Embrace the rich cultural heritage of Maui through vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations.

Which side of Maui has the best snorkeling?

One of the most prized West Maui beaches is the world famous Napili Bay. If you’re looking for a great snorkeling experience then definitely head here.

If you drive to Napili Bay, there is a carpark off the highway, but you’ll want to get there early for a spot. Or, take the bus from Whalers Village, the “Napili Islander, Route 30”, which will drop you off at Napili Village. Walk straight down from the road, to the public access path in between the condos, past a freshwater shower, and straight onto the beach.

The best snorkeling spot is the far right of the beach, as it tends to be more sheltered here. You’ll be tickled to find a nice gathering of the shimmery silver needle fish, and a small array of the common place Maui reef fish.

For the adventuresome and proficient swimmers, the left side of the bay has some good little rocky alcoves and reefs with reef fish, but because it tends to be quite choppy, visibility is cloudy and not worth risking a lashing on the rocks.

Where can I see the most turtles in Maui?

6. Maluʻaka Beach (South Maui):. Maluʻaka Beach is known as Turtle Beach because of the abundance of sea turtles that can be seen swimming in the area. Maluaka Beach, is located in South Maui and is known for its golden sand, clear blue water, and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

For the best chance at seeing turtles, snorkel near the rocky shore at either the north end or south end of the beach. Just watch out for the rogue wave that might push you into the rocks. Mornings are typically better for avoiding high surf conditions while snorkeling at Maluʻaka Beach.To get to Maluʻaka Beach, you can park at either end of the beach. There are parking lots, restrooms, and showers available at both ends of the beach, which are connected by a paved walking path. If you are coming from Wailea Alanui Road, take the turnoff to go to Keawala’i Church and Makena Landing. Where the road splits to go to Makena Landing or the church, turn left to reach Maluʻaka Beach.

Turtle mating season. The Hawaiian green sea turtles mating season typically occurs during the summer months. The exact timing can vary, but it generally spans from June to September. During the mating season, male green sea turtles actively pursue females in the water. Mating often involves courtship behaviors, with males attempting to mount the females. Once mating is successful, female turtles come ashore to nest.

What is happening on Maui in February?

Maui Whales and Whale Watching Maui is one of the world’s top whale watching destinations, and it’s no wonder when an estimated 10,000 humpback whales migrate to Maui waters each winter. In Maui in February, there are enough whales to go around and a number of possibilities to view these frolicking, 45 ton leviathans.

Maui Whale WatchingPeak season: January – MarchBest Time To Go: Early morning trips usually mean calmer seasHighlights: Nothing compares to coming face-to-face with a humpback whale.

With peak humpback whale season and couples snuggling up for Valentine’s Day, Maui in February is a busy time. Throughout the month, humpbacks definitely garner the majority of spotlight. In addition to whales, February is also host to a variety of unique, entertaining events, from live concerts to Chinese New Year festivals. And of course, you can never go wrong with a day spent relaxing at one of the island’s sunny, warm beaches.

While most of the northern hemisphere is stuck in the throes of winter,Maui in February is marked by plenty of sunshine and daytime temperatures in the low eighties. Ocean temperature averages 75°. Maui’s near constant trade winds also tend to relax during February, making this an optimal month for watersports and beach days.

Is snorkeling better at Molokini or Lanai?

Lanai is Preferred by Most People. The island is surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters teeming with colorful marine life, making it an ideal snorkeling location. Lanai’s Club, Manele Bay and Sweetheart rock are must-visit spots, boasting some of the best snorkeling on the island. These spots are snorkeled on days with gentle currents and no crowds, making them suitable for all levels of snorkelers, and it’s also home to a vibrant coral reef and a wide variety of sea creatures.

Lanai’s secluded beaches and unspoiled landscapes make it a popular destination for those seeking a more tranquil and intimate snorkeling experience compared to the crowded Molokini crater.

Molokini Can Get a Bit Crowded. Molokini is undoubtedly a beautiful location for snorkeling. However, due to the popular press it has received for it’s geographical structure and small area for snorkeling, it can get crowded with boats and people. The limited space can make it challenging to find a spot to enjoy the underwater scenery without bumping into other snorkelers.

Where is the best place to see turtles while snorkeling in Maui?

FAQs. where to see sea turtles in Maui?. One of the best places to see sea turtles in Maui is Kapalua Bay. This bay is known for its healthy coral reef, and visitors can enjoy viewing sea turtles while snorkeling or diving. Additionally, Nakalele Natural Park offers several trails that lead hikers right up to nesting grounds where they can watch mother sea turtles nursing their eggs.

What is the best time to see turtles in Maui?. The best time to see turtles in Maui is during the morning and evening hours. These animals are most active at these times, so you’re likely to have a better chance of spotting one. And if you’re feeling lucky, keep an eye out for hawksbill sea turtles as well!

Best Place for swimming with turtles in Maui?. There are many great places to swim with turtles in Maui. The best place might depend on what time of year you’re visiting and what type of turtle you’re looking for, but some options include Ka Leo O Waimea Bay (during the morning or early afternoon), Piilani Forest Reserve (east coast beaches), and Haleakala National Park (Kalalau Valley).

Where is the clearest water to snorkel in Maui?

Honolua Bay is a protected marine sanctuary and one of the most pristine places to snorkel on Maui! To reach the beach, you’ll follow a short path through a lush jungle unique to this area. And if you had any worries, we guarantee they’ll melt away as you gaze in awe at the giant plants along the path and listen to the murmurings of the resident chicken flocks. The bay at Honolua is bordered by a beach of large smooth stones. There is no sand here, making Honolua Bay more of an activity than your typical beach day on Maui.

In calm weather, this dreamy bay hosts snorkelers and divers. When there is swell (typically during winter months) surfers catch waves that break along on the right side of the bay. To access the world famous surf break, you’ll need to drive further along the main road and take a left on the dirt road that leads to the point. Check the Maui snorkeling conditions to determine if its a snorkeling day or a surfing day at Honolua. You can also utilize the Honolua Bay Lookout to check current conditions before walking the trail to the snorkel beach.

Both sides of the bay boast a well established coral reef with great Hawaiian marine life. You are likely to see peacock groupers, butterflyfish, yellow tang, Moorish idols, and even the occasional manta ray or octopus! Turtles are spotted here as well. Because fresh water is entering to mix with the salty ocean water in Honolua Bay, in some areas you may notice that the underwater world looks wavy – a bit like when water streams down your windshield in a car wash!

Can you see sea turtles in February in Hawaii?

If you visit Oahu’s North Shore on your own, the best time of year to come is during the summer. Winter sees larger waves than the rest of the year. This makes winter a great time to visit if you’re into surfing. But turtles tend to avoid the larger waves, so it’s not the best time to come for turtle viewing.

In the right conditions and at the right time, you can find turtles on shore.

But the best way to see the turtles is by scuba diving and snorkeling. You can have an extraordinary adventure, see the turtles in their native habitat, and explore the natural beauty that makes Hawaii so famous.

Unless you’re a local, you won’t know the best spots to view the turtles. So if you want to scope out these turtles in their marine home, book an eco tour. Hawaii Turtle Tours’ Turtle Eco Adventure Tour takes you directly to the best hidden spots for viewing turtles. Additionally, you’ll be escorted to some of Oahu’s top sightseeing spots.

Why is Hawaii so cheap in February?

February tends to be the coldest month of the year in Hawaii. But fewer people visit during the month, so you’ll have the beaches practically to yourself. And since there aren’t as many visitors, you can often find discounted hotel rates, helping you save money on your Hawaiian getaway.

Let’s look at the data regarding Hawaii’s weather, crowds, and costs in February. This information can help you decide if a trip this month is for you.

Hawaii trip planning gets overwhelming, no matter where you are in the process, we have resources to help guide you!From what to pack to where to stay to what to do, even the best rental car recommendations, we have you covered for every part of your planning process.Get started with:15 essential details to know before planning your trip to HawaiiA step by step process to help you plan.

Is it too cold to snorkel in Maui in January?

Hawaii is located wonderfully near the equator, meaning our temperatures don’t vary much throughout the year. When the trades are blowing, and you’re in South or West Maui at sea level during the day, temperatures in the seventies and low eighties are the most common. If there happens to be stormy weather, that obviously changes things, but otherwise, you’re looking at nice conditions for snorkeling, especially if you go early in the morning between 6-8am. That is the time of day when the water is calmest and clearest, as a general rule.

You will want to be in South or West Maui for snorkeling, particularly if the trades (northerly winds) are blowing. Sometimes we’ll get a Kona (southerly wind), and that is when the North Shore tends to be calmer, but this is less common. In any case, South and West Maui areas are the best places for snorkeling if you are looking for beautiful reefs teeming with life. There are a myriad of fish species you might see on any given day, and turtle sightings are common.

So where to snorkel? Igood spot in Kaanapali is Black Rock, on the north end of Kaanapali Beach. It’s a convenient location if you have Kaanapali accommodations and you want to stay nearby. In fact, you can find beautiful condos at The Whaler on this very beach. Black Rock offers a lovely reef that has long been growing at the base of the rock that gave this spot its name.