lanai snorkel trip from maui

11 Incredible Lana’i Snorkeling Tours from Maui

Alert for Visitors: Maui has experienced significant wildfires in August 2023, causing major disruption for both locals and tourists. For your safety and up-to-date information, please visit the Maui County website before planning any activities or travels. Your understanding and cooperation are appreciated. Stay safe!

Are you planning a trip to Maui and want to find a cool Maui day trip? Scroll to find out the best Lana’i snorkeling tours from Maui worth checking out.

This list of the best shave lana’i snorkeling tours from maui was written by marcie cheung (a hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Snorkeling on Lana’i is one of the many fun activities you can do when you travel to Maui. Lana’i is a smaller island close to Maui with fewer amenities.

Even though there are some nice resorts and things to do in Lana’i, Maui is a popular island where most choose to stay. 

However, there are many ways you can make a Maui to Lana’i day trip, and you should go at least once, especially for an incredible Lana’i snorkeling tour! 

Wondering why my advice matters? I’ve been to Hawaii over 40 times and have unparalleled firsthand knowledge of the islands.

During your excursion to Lana’i from Maui, go on any of these Lana’i snorkeling tours from Maui! You can easily enjoy some of the best snorkeling all around the island, all the while heading back to your resort on Maui. 

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Maui itinerary complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Best Lana’i Snorkeling Tours from Maui

Here are some of the best Lana’i snorkeling tours from Maui. Some are less crowded charters, while others range from just a few hours to an entire day of snorkeling on Lana’i. Choose whichever best fits your schedule, and have fun! 

Maui to Lanai Day Trip

If you want to snorkel in Lana’i and see what else this island has to offer, this is the tour for you. You’ll begin your day sailing out on a first-class catamaran yacht to Lana’i with a delicious breakfast.

During this Lana’i snorkeling trip , you will get to spend 3 hours swimming in the ocean with tropical fish and having a blast snorkeling.

You will then take a short hike to Sweetheart Rock, and before heading back, enjoy a nice  BBQ Lunch at Manele Bay. During your lunch, you’ll have a fun hula show to watch too!

With this tour, you will get to snorkel and spend time at the Hulopoe Bay Marine Sanctuary, which most tours do not get to experience!  Check the latest rates and availability .

Lanai Snorkeling Tour with PacWhale Eco Adventures

The PacWhale Eco Adventures offer the best Lana’i snorkel tour from Maui. This is another snorkeling tour that offers both breakfast and lunch and is about 5 hours long.

You will set sail on a 65-foot double-deck catamaran and have the opportunity to see some dolphins and whales while you make your way to Lana’i. 

When you arrive, your captain will take you to the locations that offer you the best snorkeling conditions, which vary each day. You’ll get to spend hours observing the vibrant coral reef and the stunning marine life living there! 

What sets this Lana’i snorkel trip from Maui apart is that you will have a certified marine naturalist aboard to share with you all about the dolphins, sea turtles, and coral reefs you will see along the way.

They will also give you a special guided reef tour when you arrive!  Check the latest rates and availability .

Maui Adventure Lanai Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Tour

Enjoy this half-day Lana’i snorkel tour and dolphin watch that leaves Lahaina harbor. You’ll sail out on a 50-foot Explorer Super Raft.

During your sail, more than likely, you will see dolphins and sea turtles. During the winter months, you might even see some whales too! 

When you arrive in Lana’i, you will snorkel at two of the clearest and calmest snorkeling locations. Also included on this tour is a nice breakfast when you head out and a lunch when you return.  Check the latest rates and availability .

Lanai Deluxe Snorkel Sail from Lahaina

On this deluxe Lana’i snorkel cruise , you will get to experience a variety of snorkeling locations all over the island!

During this full-day tour , experience Kaunolu, Kahalepalaoa, Fish Rock, and a few other great snorkeling locations depending on the weather and ocean conditions. 

Enjoy the incredible views as you sail out to the island, all the while eating your free breakfast. Then after you are finished snorkeling, enjoy two free cocktails along with a delicious BBQ lunch at a private gazebo on Lana’i before heading back to Maui.  Check the latest rates and availability .

Lanai Morning Snorkeling Cruise & Dolphin Encounter

For a family-friendly Lana’i snorkeling cruise , hop aboard the Quicksilver! During this cruise, you will get breakfast and lunch and have the option to have some happy-hour drinks as well.

When you are ready to go snorkel, have fun entering the water with their waterslide or their jumping platform! 

This cruise takes about 5.5 hours and is so much fun to sail out on the double-decker catamaran. Along the way, you will see some playful dolphins jumping out of the water.

When you arrive, you will head to either Manele Bay or Kaunolu Bay to snorkel.  Check the latest rates and availability .

Maui to Lanai Snorkel Cruise

This is the best Lana’i snorkeling tour that departs from Kaanapali Beach. You will be on a 46-foot-long tour vessel and will get to experience snorkeling locations you won’t get to on other tours.

With this half-day tour , you can also choose to ride on sea scooters too! This will make your snorkeling tour more enjoyable as you will get to go places you wouldn’t without the scooter. 

You can also rent a GoPro with this Lana’i snorkel trip from Maui, so you can capture all the excitement and fascinating tropical fish from your adventure.  Check the latest rates and availability .

Lana’i Coast Maui Sail and Snorkel Trip

Another one of the Lana’i snorkel tours setting sail from Lahaina is this 4.5-hour tour from Sail Maui. Enjoy both a breakfast and a deli lunch as you go to and from Lana’i on their new catamaran.

Along your journey , you might see some spinner dolphins playing around in the water. 

When you arrive, your captain will take you to a few uncrowded snorkeling locations around the island, where you can see the incredible Lana’i sea cliffs, along with some awesome sea life and the beautiful coral reef.  Check the latest rates and availability .

Eco-Raft Snorkel and Dolphin Tour to Lanai

With this Eco-Raft Maui to Lana’i snorkel trip , you will climb aboard a 27-foot hard-bottom pontoon boat.

You will spend a few hours snorkeling all around Lana’i and take in the beauty that surrounds you. They will provide a simple breakfast and plenty of yummy snacks for the entire family to enjoy during your sail.  Check the latest rates and availability .

6-Hour Lanai Snorkel & Dolphin Tour from Lahaina

If you want a Maui to Lana’i snorkeling experience that isn’t overly crowded, this is a small group tour that you will love that only has 18 people per tour.

With this tour, you might see some sea turtles, dolphins, manta rays, and during the winter, humpback whales! 

You’ll get to experience two different snorkeling sights around the island, all with fewer people, so you can enjoy yourself at your own pace.

Aside from the snorkeling, this is one of the few Lana’i snorkeling tours from Maui where you can also enjoy seeing some offshore pinnacles, blow holes, and sea cliffs too!

This tour also features snacks, drinks, and a nice lunch.  Check the latest rates and availability .

Sea Scooter Half-Day Morning Lanai Tour

This is one of the only Maui boat tours to Lana’i that offers sea scooters as part of your experience; at no extra charge! You’ll get to experience two different snorkeling locations and be able to explore the ocean and vibrant coral reef, unlike any other tour. 

With this four-hour tour , you will depart from Kaanapali and sail out to Lana’i early in the morning.

Enjoy some fresh Hawaiian fruits and pastries throughout your trip, along with some juice and soda. You can also rent a GoPro to capture your fun adventure too!  Check the latest rates and availability .

Lanai Snorkel and Dolphin Watch from Lahaina

On this Lana’i snorkel trip , experience the breathtaking views of Maui and Lana’i while you head out to some of the best snorkeling spots along the island.

All rental gear is included, along with breakfast, lunch, snacks, and one alcoholic beverage to enjoy during this five-hour-long tour . 

A Certified Marine Naturalist will be aboard helping you find the best snorkeling spots and help you learn about all the incredible creatures you will see in the ocean during your trip. They even have a fun Jr. Naturalist Program for your little kids aboard as well!  Check the latest rates and availability .

Lana’i Snorkeling Tours FAQs

The ferry typically costs $30 and takes roughly 50 minutes to get from Maui to Lana’i.

Lana’i offers some of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii! There are many places around the island where you can swim with many tropical fish and turtles.

If you are vacationing in Maui, it is absolutely worth going on a Lana’i excursion from Maui. There are many tours from Maui to Lana’i that make it even more fun, especially if you don’t want to figure out what to do when you arrive.

There are plenty of great snorkeling spots on Lana’i. The Maui snorkel tours to Lana’i will take you to some of the best snorkeling areas, including Hulopoe Bay, Manele Bay, Kaunolu, and a few others.

Snorkeling on Lana’i Wrap Up

Lana’i snorkeling from Maui is so much fun and is definitely worth it during your trip to Maui. Be sure to take one of these Lana’i snorkeling tours from Maui during your next trip to the islands and enjoy all this beautiful island has to offer.

Looking for more Maui day trip ideas? Check out the best stops on the Road to Hana , the coolest Molokini Crater snorkeling tours , awesome Maui kayaking tours , and our guide to Haleakala Crater !

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SEMI-PRIVATE SNORKEL TOUR

Maui’s best eco snorkel & dolphin tour.

Maui’s only Semi-Private family-style eco raft ventures from Lahaina, Maui to Lanai for snorkeling and dolphin watching. Less than 18 guests onboard makes this snorkel adventure the closest to a private charter experience you can get!

Tour Highlights

• <18 Passengers Semi-Private Snorkel Tour
• 5 Hour Snorkel Tour
• 3 Certified Lifeguards onboard
• Snorkel Instruction for Beginners
• Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks & Beverages

Adults (Ages 13+) $189

Kids (Ages 4-12) $169

Private charters available!

Snorkel Maui’s neighbor island of Lanai and watch dolphins on our small group tour with <18 passengers.

 Our Award Winning Lanai Tour is Maui’s only Semi-Private 5 hour snorkel tour on an adventure vessel! Snorkel 2-3 snorkel spots and stop to enjoy breakfast, lunch, snacks and beverages. Our Maui snorkel tours are for all levels snorkelers and offer beginner friendly snorkel instruction, 3 Certified Lifeguards onboard, flotation devices and a marine naturalist to learn about Maui’s sister island Lanai, marine animals, including dolphins and Hawaiian history.

Snorkel with tropical fish and look for sea turtles near the coast of Lanai or West Maui. Other marine animal sightings may include octopus, rays, eels and more! Search for dolphins in their natural habit as we cruise Lanai’s sea cli s. We see dolphins on almost every snorkel trip (9/10). Our Maui Snorkel tour includes whale watching in lieu of a snorkel stop from Dec-April during migration.

What’s Included

• Semi-Private Shared Snorkel Tour < 18 Passengers
• 3 Certified Lifeguards onboard for safe snorkeling
• 5 Hour Tour, 2-3 Snorkel stop and search for dolphins
• Snorkeling for All Levels
• Snorkel Instruction and flotation devices for beginners
• Wetsuit tops available for rent $20
• Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks & Beverages
• Marine Naturalist education

Gear up in clean and sanitized  high quality snorkel gear  included in the snorkel tour. Floatation devices including float belts and pool noodles for all level snorkelers. Short sleeve wetsuit tops available to rent at check-in for $20.

Our 3 Crew Certified Lifeguards and Marine Naturalist are onboard for a  fun and safe snorkel experience , sharing educational information about Maui, snorkeling and dolphins and will offer one-on-one snorkel instruction.

Breakfast: Sweet pastry with fresh fruit including watermelon and pineapple.

Lunch: Wraps – Chicken Caesar, Ham BLT, or Falafel/Veggie. (GF wrap available upon request.)

Snacks: Maui style potato chips and cookies.

Beverages: Soda, diet soda, green tea and water. BYOB adult beverages ok, please no glass containers.

What to Expect

Check-in at least 30 minutes prior to your snorkel tour. Our crew who are certified lifeguards will talk with you about your snorkel experience and fit you with quality snorkel gear. Boarding our small group vessel we leave from Lahaina and head across the channel to the nearby island of Lanai.

Our first stop will include snorkeling and breakfast. Our marine naturalist will be in the water and act as as guide, pointing out unique marine life which may include tropical fish, sea turtles and more.

On our way to our second snorkel stop we will be on the look-out for dolphins. When we spot them we will stop and watch them spin and interact with each other.

The 5 hour snorkel may include 2 or 3 snorkel stops, depending on the ocean’s conditions. A lunch break will include fresh deli wraps, snack and beverages, talking story with our marine naturalist crew and getting to know your fellow snorkelers before heading back to Maui.

What to Bring Snorkeling

Bring towels, hat, sunglasses, reef safe sunscreen or a sun shirt! BYOB ok, just no glass containers. Waterproof bag for personal items. Camera or Gopro for photos and videos. Gratuity for crew (Venmo accepted)

Departure & Directions

• May-November 7am Check-in for 7:30am Departure
• December-April – TBD

DIRECTIONS: Check-in at Dive Maui Shop, 1223 Front St, Lahaina. Parking at Longs at Lahaina Cannery Mall. Park and walk toward the ocean to Front Street. Make a left and walk over the bridge. The dive shop is on the right, next to Snorkel Bob’s blue building.

Our temporary Lahaina location for our snorkel tours is approximately 15 minutes from Kaanapali and 20 minutes from other West Maui locations including Kahana, Napili and Kapalua. Our snorkel tours are nearby for visitors staying in West Maui, but also a great option for visitors staying in Kihei or Wailea that want to venture to West Maui and explore the calm waters off the coast of Lahaina, Maui.

Due to the loss of our rafts in the Lahaina fire, we will be temporarily operating these small group vessels for our snorkel tours.

• Kai Oma’o 34′ Small Ocean Monohull <18 Passengers

“Lanai Morning Snorkel Trip!”

“Jill, Scott and Val were great guides and lots of fun. We went to two fantastic snorkeling spots and saw a huge pod of spinner dolphins up close. Highly recommended!”

“Wonderful Experience Snorkel!”

“Such helpful guides, caring, knowledgeable about marine life and local history. Made all ages and ability levels feel comfortable and safe. We highly recommend this experience – it is worth every penny. We were able to swim with a sea turtle, boat alongside pods of spinner dolphins and watch many different species of fish in the awesome coral reef.”

Are you a beginner snorkeler?

Learn to snorkel with us!

One-on-One Instruction

Because our tours are small group, you get one-on-one time learning how to snorkel and use snorkel gear.

Certified Lifeguards Onboard

Our crew are all certified lifeguards. This is a company policy to ensure you have qualified guides while snorkeling.

Snorkel Support Gear

We offer high quality snorkel gear and additional floatation devices so you can relax and enjoy snorkeling.

Local Guides and a Family-Style Hawaiian Experience

Small group snorkel tours from Lahaina create a family style experience by giving everyone the chance to get to know eachother. We are family and Hawaiian owned and want everyone to have an ohana experience with us. The smaller group gives our marine naturalists the opportunity to educate each snorkeler about Maui, sustainability and snorkeling. Because we choose destination snorkel spots like Lanai, you get to experience authentic encounters with Maui’s marine life away from crowds. We

Selecting the Best Places to Snorkel in Maui

Before snorkeling, select a snorkel location that has clear, calm water. Contact the local snorkel store for snorkel reports or book a snorkel tour where guides take you to the best snorkel spots. If in doubt, don’t go out. That’s what we say here in Maui when we are considering snorkeling and assessing the ocean’s conditions. Avoid snorkeling after recent rainfall if the water is murky. If there are waves or signs indicating high surf or current, avoid snorkeling or getting in the ocean. Lanai o ers many snorkel locations that have crystal clear waters and healthy reef.

Equiped with the Right Snorkel Gear

Having high quality snorkel gear that fits correctly can make or break your snorkel experience. You want a snorkel mask that fits snug but not too tight. Avoid full face snorkel masks as they do not allow for proper air circulation. The 2 piece mask and snorkel are the best and safest option. It’s important to use a snorkel mask defog to keep the mask from fogging while you are snorkeling. Snorkel stores sell defog, or a small drop of baby shampoo does the trick too! For snorkel fins, select a size close to your shoe size. You want them snug as they will loosen when you get in the water and begin snorkeling. Our snorkel tours include high quality snorkel gear and our crew will help you find the right fit.

Ensuring Safety and Confidence while Snorkeling

Always snorkel with a buddy. If gear fails or you feel ill, snorkeling with a buddy will ensure you make it back to shore safely. Snorkeling on a guided tour is the best snorkel choice as a trained snorkel guide will teach you how and where to snorkel and ensure your gear is working correctly. Our snorkel guides are marine naturalist and certified lifeguards. Booking a tour takes all the guesswork out and will help build confidence as a beginner snorkeleror if you are just new to snorkeling in Maui. Once you feel comfortable snorkeling, rent snorkel gear and go snorkeling with a friend, using all the snorkel tips you learned on your snorkel tour.

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Dolphin Watching

Eye-level dolphin encounters made possible by our eco rafts.

Where to see dolphins in Maui

Dolphin watching in Maui is one of the most special marine animal acounters you can have while visiting Hawaii. Not only are there many species of dolphins in Maui, they reside here year-round. Pods of dolphins can be see along the coast of Maui, near Kihei, Lahaina and the neighboring island of Lanai.

So what’s the best way to see dolphins in Maui? Because they are much smaller than whales, dolphins can be more difficult to spot from shore but you can occassionally see them off the coast of South Maui at La Peruse Bay or near the Kamaole Beach Parks Some pods frequent the coast of West Maui near Lahaina and also Honolua Bay. Sometimes spinner dolphins form what experts call megapods of hundreds of dolphins and these pods are much easier to spot. We can also see these pods most regularly near the island of Lanai. The best way to see dolphins in Maui is by boat. You can cover more ocean looking for resident pods and observe from the vessel. Dolphin tours in Maui are typically a part of snorkel tours or you can book a private charter and search for dolphins near West Maui or Lanai.

Dolphin Encounters; What to Expect

Dolphins (Nai’a) are protected in Hawaii, which means no swimming or snorkeling with dolphins and we cannot approach them within regulated distance. This is why having a low to water rafting vessel is the best way to encounter dolphins as it provides close to water viewing when the dolphins decide to approach and the opportunity to dip your underwater camera in the water from the side of the boat, capturing epic video and photos of dolphins and other marine life.

Maui Dolphin Facts & Species

Each dolphin is given a unique name (specific sound) by it’s pod.

Dolphins communicate using sounds that are whistles and high pitch squeaking.

Dolphins are mammals and give birth to their live young in the water and nurse them.

Like all toothed whales, bottlenose dolphins are predatory animals and feed on crabs, fish, octopus and other marine animals.

When not resting, dolphins are some of the fastest swimming marine mammals, sprinting up to 22 mph.

Dolphins can give birth to one young every year typically in spring or fall after reachign sexual maturity around the age of 7 years old. The average lifespan is around 20 years, but dolphins have been know to live up to 50 years.

There are at least 8 dolphin species found in Maui near Lanai, but the three most common we see are spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and spotted dolphins.

Spinner dolphins are the smallest of the three species weighing in at 4-7 ft in length and 50-170 lbs. Known for their aerial acrobatics, spinner dolphins can travel in pods up to 300 animals, making them a very playful and social species. Because spinner dolphins are nocturnal feeders, recent legislation has come into law protecting them from human encounters, like swimming with dolphins, that may disrupt their sleeping, eating and reproduction. As the dolphin pod moves during the day, they are prac- ticing resting behaviors which is called “milling”. During their resting period, which can be approximately 4-5 hours from sunrise to late afternoon, spinner dolphins will rest half of their brain, while the other half remains active to control breathing and possibly monitor for predators. This is the time of day when mom and calf dolphins interact the most as well and seeing baby spinner dolphins will definitely melt your heart.

Bottlenose dolphins are the species you may be familiar with in film or television. Bottlenose dolphins are found all over the world in every tropical and temperate ocean, the only place you won’t find them are the Artic and Antartic Oceans. It’s estimat- ed a few thousand have made Hawaii their home, permanently residing in pods of two-fifteen animals. Because their pods are smaller, it is often harder to spot bottlenose dolphins compared with their sister species the spinner dolphins. Spinners are some of the larger dolphin species growing to lengths of 6-15 feet and adults weighing up to 1400 lbs.

Pantropical spotted dolphins are, well you probably guessed, spotted! Their darker spots can be seen on the lighter underside of their belly, not showing until they are around the age of 5 years. This species’ coloring and size does vary depending on where it resides. Some species outside of Hawaii can have almost no spots even into adulthood. Unlike bottlenose who reside more in shallow water, pantropical spotted dolphins are found in both shallow and deep water. Most spotted dolphins travel in pods averaging around 65 animals, but will sometimes travel alone or in mega pods up to 350 animals. Spinner dolphins aren’t the only species that jump, all dolphins can, and spotted dolphins can jump up to 15 feet out of the water.

Dolphin’s (Naia) in Hawaiian History

Dolphins or Nai’a are considered ‘aumakua in our Hawaiian culture. ’Aumakua are spiritual guides and ancestral guardians that protect their ohana (family). There are some debates on dolphins being mentioned in Hawaiian history as they are not named specifically in traditional stories, myths or legends. The word nai‘a Some historians believe they were mentioned but under another name mano (shark). There are many stories of sharks and when thoroughly examined the description of the “shark” and it’s behavior implies that of a dolphin. One such example is the story of Mangaia and the goddess ‘Ina. Some have conclud- ed that the Hawaiian term mano was used interchangeably with sharks and dolphins in stories told.

Stories that do mention nai’a like No ka Lawai’a a me kāna Wahine, talked about dolphins having special powers, granting wishes and almost being human-like.

Why Snorkel Lanai from Lahaina?

Our morning snorkel tours take snorkelers to Maui’s nearby neighbor island, Lanai. Lanai offers the best snorkeling, and compared with Molokini, snorkel locations are less crowded and have more marine life. Lanai is more remote and its snorkel locations are easiest to access from Lahaina on smaller, faster boats.

We also have a chance to spot some of our favorite sea animals, dolphins. Dolphins frequent the channel between Maui and Lanai and we see them about 9/10 trips.

Lanai has more than a dozen snorkel spots around the island, most of our favorite snorkel spots are located along the east and south shores of the island.

Ocean conditions and weather determine which locations we can snorkel on any given day, but with many snorkel locations to choose from and lots of marine life, Lanai offers some of the best snorkeling in Maui.

Lanai Snorkeling- for all level snorkelers

Lanai snorkel tours are for all level snorkelers and every snorkel spot is selected to be beginner friendly and fun for all levels of snorkelers. Our experienced captains select snorkel locations with the mildest current along Lanai’s shallow coast line with marine life including tropical fish, turtles and on occasion octopus, rays and other sea creatures. Between snorkel stops, we frequently encounter dolphins as their pods travel around Lanai and across the channel back to Maui.

Best Place to Snorkel on Lanai

Club Lanai Snorkel Spot

The closest snorkel stop is 8 miles directly across the channel from Lahaina. This spot is called Club, named for the busy club house that previously welcomed tourists at that beach. Club can often have crystal clear water, turtles, tropical fish and small reef sharks, making it one of our favorite snorkel stops.

Shark Fin Snorkel Spot

Shark Fin is a fan favorite snorkel stop thanks to its unique pinnacle reefs and variety of tropical fish. Named for the coral reef that jets out of the water in a shark fin shape, this snorkel stop is most commonly snorkeled on our 6HR snorkel tour. Shark fin is home to pyramid butterfly fish, parrot fish, octopus, tangs and many more schools of fish that you will snorkel with.

Manele Bay Snorkel Spot

Manele Bay is tucked away in a secluded bay overlooked by the Four Seasons Resort Lanai. This snorkel spot is popular for visitors staying on the island of Lanai as it’s an easy access from the sandy beach. When weather is less cooperative on the rest of the island, Lanai’s public small boat harbor makes for snorkeling in calmer winds and seas. See tropical fish and turtles at this popular snorkel spot.

Sweetheart Rock Snorkel Spot

Sweetheart Rock is as beautiful above water as it is below. With its unique rock formation, Puu Pehe, towering at 80 feet tall and legend of the tragic romance of Maui and Lanai lovers, this popular snorkel spot has lots to love. Tropical fish and sea turtles can be spotted here and Lanai’s resident spinners frequently pass by this snorkel stop.

There are many more Lanai snorkel spots that are remote and teeming with marine life like Fish Rock, Armchair, Lopa, Dinosaur, Budha Bay, Lighthouse and Barge Harbor, to name a few.

About Maui’s neighbor island Lanai

Lana’i was formed by one large extinct volcano, Lanaihale, and is one of the smallest inhabited islands (with approx 3,200 residents), in Hawaii, almost completely privately owned by Larry Ellison, CEO of Oracle. Lana’i was once home to the Dole Pineapple plantation, but is now known best for its pristine, remote snorkeling spots, exclusive resort and local community. Because the island of Lana’i has little coastal development or tourism, the reefs are better protected and are home to unique reef fish, turtles and multiple pods of a variety of dolphin species.

At their highest point, Lanai’s sea cliffs reach 300 meters (almost 1000 feet). While geologists still debate the event that led to these massive rock slides and sea cliff formations, there is no debate on the breathtaking view of these sea cliffs.

Lanai also holds many legends, one in particular about its inhabitants. Early inhabitants of Hawaii avoided Lanai because of its volcanic activity. One particular legend tells the story of Lanai as an evil land, where visiting it was forbidden. The legend says Maui’s chief sent his son, Prince Kaulalau, to drive away the evil spirits. Some stories say he was banished there, either way, he succeeded in his mission, exorcising the island, gaining control of Lanai and encouraging the native people from nearby islands to move to this newly inhabitable island.

It wasn’t until the 1790’s that Lanai became a part of the Hawaiian Kingdom under King Kamehameha. This wasn’t without resistance and blood shed. Lanai became primarily ranch land for sheep and cattle until it was purchased by the Dole family for $1.1 million dollars and became home to the Dole Pineapple Plantation in 1922, producing an estimated 75% of the world’s pineapple. High labor and land cost pushed Dole to phase out pineapple farming on Lanai over 150 years later in 1992, and later selling to Larry Ellison in 2012 for $300 million.

Today the island of Lanai has one small town, Lanai City, with a few places to dine, two hotels and not one traffic light to be found. A cultural center, cat sanctuary and some historic landmarks are a few things to see on the island, but the best part of visiting Lanai is along its coast, viewed from the water or while snorkeling its pristine reef.

Snorkeling.

Need to know..

Learn why Lanai snorkeling makes it on Maui’s list of top snorkeling spots.

Related Snorkel Tours

Afternoon Snorkel

2.5 HOURS AGES 4+

Afternoon Maui Turtle Snorkel

All level snorkeling along the west coast of Maui in search of tropical fish and sea turtles! Snacks and snorkel gear included.

Lanai Snorkel Tour

5 HOURS AGES 4+

Lanai Snorkel & Dolphin Watch

All level snorkeling to the island of Lanai. Dolphin watch and enjoy breakfast & lunch. Snorkel gear included.

Maui’s best snorkel spots near you.

Here’s a list of Maui’s favorite snorkel spots near you, so you can stop searching and start snorkeling!

Best snorkeling near

West Maui is located on the western coast of our island, sheltered by the West Maui mountains. From the airport you drive past Maalea and up the Pali coast to the calm coast of Lahaina. Lahaina is divided into smaller communities that are still technically the Lahaina. Some of these communities are Olowalu, Launiupoko, Lahaina, Kaanapali, Napili, Kahana, Honokowai and Kapalua. There are many other smaller communities, but as a visitor these will be the most popular for your accomodations. If you are staying in a Lahaina community you’ll find endless options for the best snorkeling near you. Not only are the snorkel spots from shore popular, but the neighboring island of Lanai is only a short boat ride from Lahaina and is known for its snorkeling, sea cliffs and dolphins.

Popular Shore Access Snorkel Spots Near You • Olowalu • Black Rock: • Honolua Bay • Napilia Bay

Popular Boat Access Snorkel Spots Near You • Lanai (there are more than a dozen snorkel spots here) • Honolua Bay (outer reef) • Cliff House • Launipoko

South & Central Maui

South and Central Maui include the coast of Maalea, Kihei, Wailea and Makena and the residential areas of Wailuku and Kahului. As a visitor to Maui in this area you would likely be staying in Maalea, Kihei or Wailea due to accomodation availability and beach access. Kihei and Wailea have some amazing shoreline access snorkel spots near you, and while Maalea does not, it habor provides access to popular snorkel destinations o  the coast. While the south coast of Maui has many beautiful beaches, only a select few are good for snorkeling near you. Because the winds typically increase mid-morning, it’s best to snorkel early morning on the south side, whether its from shore or by boat.

Popular Shore Access Snorkel Spots Near You • Keawakapu • White Rock • La Peruse Bay • Makena Marine Reserve

Popular Boat Access Snorkel Spots Near You • Molokini Crater • Coral Gardens • South Maui Turtle Town

Which Maui snorkel destination is best?

Snorkel Molokini or Lanai? Let’s dive into all the snorkel details for Maui’s premier snorkel locations.

Snorkel Experience Expectations

While Molokini and Lanai are both popular destination spots, the experience is much different. The size and style of vessels, number of snorkelers at these destinations and marine life encounters are varied depending on the snorkel spot.

Finding Snorkeling Near You

Where you are staying on Maui can help you determine if you want to snorkel Molokini or Lanai. Knowing how far you will need to drive for your departure location can be a factor in your tour selection Sometimes the drive is a part of the adventure too!

Weather’s Effect on Snorkel Spot

While both Molokini and Lanai o er snorkeling in warm Maui waters, the experience can be very different due the destinations weather and how that impacts which operators offer tours. The weather will impact the vessel style and consistency of the itinerary.

Molokini Snorkeling versus Lanai Snorkeling. Which is a better snorkel experience?

If your vacation accomodations are in Lahaina, Kaanapali, Napili, Kahana, Kapalua or on West Maui, snorkeling a destination that departs from Lahaina will be a much more convenient drive. There are no tour companies that o er Molokini snorkel tours from Lahaina because the travel time on the boat crosses areas that typically have poor ocean conditions and do not make for a pleasant boat ride. Choosing a snorkel tour to Lanai would be an easy choice for visitors staying on the West side of Maui. If you are staying in Maalea, Kihei or Wailea, Molokini may be a closer snorkel destination for you. Tour boat that snorkel Molokini typically depart from Maalea Boat Harbor or Kihei Boat Ramp.

The south side of Maui (Kihei, Wailea and Maalea) are subject to much windier conditions than the west side of Maui (Lahaina). Because of this the majority of Molokini tours will be early morning and also on larger vessels that fair better in a variety of ocean conditions. You will notice that many companies o ering Molokini snorkel tours will disclose that weather can a ect the tour and alternative locations like Coral Gardens will be snorkeled instead. These companies will make the best choice with the weather to give you a positive snorkel experience, but its helpful to know Molokini isn’t always an achievable snorkel destination. Because Lanai departure are from Lahaina, the ocean conditions are much more consistent due to the lee created by the West Maui mountains. This allows for smaller vessels to operate and snorkel tour times to vary near Lahaina. There can still be wind or rain on occassion but Lahaina is the dryest and least windy location on the island of Maui.

Is a Molokini snorkel tour or Lanai snorkel tour near you?

Molokini is a much smaller snorkel area (as you can see on the map) and the snorkel experience will be with at least a dozen other groups of 30-100 snorkelers per group. You will likely be taking a larger vessel to these destinations, but your driving time on the boat from Kihei to Molokini is only about 30 minutes so you can typically have a shorter tour with alot of time in the water snorkeling. There are also more tour companies to choose from because of the departure locations. While snorkeling in the crater will see tropical fish and on occasion turtles here as well! The clear water of this unique geographical structure is what draws it’s visitors.

Maui’s neighbor island of Lanai has over a dozen snorkel locations to choose from which means you’re away from the crowds and snorkeling more remote reefs. The closest snorkel spot on Lanai is about a 30 minute boat ride on a small fast vessel. You won’t see many large boat tours visiting Lanai because they move slower and the drive time is longer for them. Lanai’s popular snorkel stops are 30-45 minutes from Lahaina and you will often come across pods of resident dolphins near Lanai. Dolphin watching is a popular feature included in Maui snorkel tours to Lanai. You will also see tropical fish, some turtles, and some other rare marine life like octopus, rays and eels depending on your snorkel stop.

Our mission is to provide a fun, authentic, aloha filled, Maui ocean experience that educates and inspires visitors to love and respect Hawaiian culture, the ocean and our island.

(808) 661-7238

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New Temporary Location: Dive Maui Shop, 1223 Front Street, Lahaina, HI 96761

Parking: Front Street or in Lahaina Cannery Mall parking lot.

West Maui or Lanai Snorkeling and Sailing Tour (Save 10%!)

Set sail with Sail Maui to take advantage of our exclusive discount to save 10% at checkout! Enjoy half a day of snorkeling along the coast of Lana’i or West Maui in pristine waters that allow you to see honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles), tropical fish, vibrant coral reefs, and so much more!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

Activity Overview

• Departs From: Maui – Ma’alaea (Central)
• Duration: 5.25 hours
• Included in the price: Light breakfast, buffet lunch, drinks (both alcoholic and not), all snorkel gear, and sunscreen.

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West Maui Lanai Snorkeling Tour Details

Head out from Ma’alaea Harbor at 10:00 am any day of the week for just over 5 hours of sailing and snorkeling. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins or humpback whales ( seasonally ) as you set out to the snorkel spots of the day!

The first choice for snorkeling is heading to the coast of Lana’i. If conditions are unfavorable, you’ll head to the West Maui coastline instead. Don’t be disappointed if you don’t make it to Lana’i, Sail Maui’s crew is determined to give you the best possible snorkeling location for the day.

It’s way better to head to West Maui and see incredible marine life than to try to head to Lana’i with poor snorkeling conditions.

Conditions are safe and favorable to head to Lana’i about 60% of the time . But since you’ll be in such good hands with the Sail Maui crew, you’ll have a fantastic time and can rest assured you’re in for the best snorkeling available 100% of the time!

Great snorkeling isn’t the only thing you have to look forward to. You’ll also be treated to a light breakfast and coffee, a buffet lunch, an open bar, as well as non-alcoholic drinks. The crew also provides sunscreen and snorkel gear so all you have to bring is a towel and be prepared for a good time!

Save 10% with Sail Maui by Using Promo Code HVG224

Enter the code in the order section, not the individual’s info box when you are in checkout. See the screenshots for details below. Promo Code: HVG224 (as of April 1st, 2024) The promo code changes quarterly, so contact us if it isn’t working!

Depart from Ma’alaea Harbor

Just 15 minutes from Kihei, you’ll set sail from Ma’alaea Harbor slip #72 ( click here for directions ). This trip is available daily 10:00 am-3:15 pm (check in at 9:30 am)

All-Inclusive

You’ll pay for the tour (and gratuity) and that’s it! Snorkel gear, reef-safe sunscreen , breakfast, lunch, and drinks are all included in the price!

All Ages Welcome

There is no age restriction on this tour! Infants (0-3 years old) sail FREE, so this is a great option for families!

Best Snorkeling of the Day

Sail Maui goes to Lana’i as often as they can, but in case conditions are unfavorable, you’ll be heading to the next best spot. The crew will be sure you get to a phenomenal snorkeling spot no matter what!

How to book with our discount!

There are two places to enter the discount code (promo code) at checkout, in the individual ticket boxes where you select dietary preferences and closer to the payment details. The code does not work in the individual boxes, you’ll want to enter it in the second box, see the images below:

Our promo code changes quarterly, so if the code isn’t working in the Promotional Codes box just above the payment method, reach out and we’ll get the code updated!

About Sail Maui

Sail Maui runs boat tours on two high-performance catamarans. They depart from Ma’alaea Harbor, offering a wide range of sailing excursions that leave from a convenient location no matter where on the island you’re staying. Their tours offer adventure and an unforgettable experience because the Sail Maui crew are truly enthusiastic about sailing…and Maui.

More from Sail Maui:

Browse Sail Maui’s site or check out our other favorite tours from them:

• Molokini Crater snorkel tour
• Sail with the Whales from Ma’alaea Harbor, Maui
• Maui’s Pali Coast Snorkeling & Sailing Tour
• Luxury Sunset Sail from Ma’alaea Harbor
• Performance Sail from Ma’alaea Harbor

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While we are devastated to share that our two boats burned in the Lahaina fires, we are pleased to announce that we are in the process of acquiring new vessels.

Check back soon for information on the 2024 – 2025 whale season., come join us as we offer our world-renowned maui adventure cruises whale watching tours once again, operating from maalaea harbor for the upcoming 2023 – 2024 season., maalaea harbor, slip #41, snorkeling & dolphin adventures and whale watch adventures.

Lanai Dolphin and Snorkel Adventure

Temporarily Unavailable

Adult (13yrs +): $149.00 plus taxes & fee Child (5-12yrs): $119.00 plus taxes & fee

This Lanai snorkeling trip takes you across the Au‘au Channel to the Island of Lana‘i. Dolphins are often encountered off the island with lots of tropical fish, green sea turtles, and occasional manta rays at the snorkel sites chosen by your captain.

Coastline Snorkel Adventure

Adult (13yrs +) : $109.00 plus taxes & fee child (5-12yrs): $89.00 plus taxes & fee.

Cruise the West Maui Coastline to a fabulous snorkel site where you swim & snorkel for over one hour with tropical fish over a colorful coral reef and maybe even see green sea turtles, spotted eagle rays and moray eels.

Whale Watch Adventure

Adult (13yrs +) : $69.00 plus taxes child (5-12yrs): $49.00 plus taxes.

Come experience the best Maui whale-watching experience on the island! We get to the whales fast – more time to whale watch and less time traveling! Every seat is a front-row seat. We offer Whale Season Passes for those of you who love to whale watch!

Note – Trip and destination are weather, seas, and wind conditions permitting; any snorkel site is the Captain’s choice for visibility and safety.

Guest Responsibility – Guests are solely responsible for their possessions, including clothing, hats, cameras, cell phones, and other electronics. Dry storage bags are not available; however, small disposable trash bags are available upon request. Please remember, we are a sea vessel on the water and in the elements; dress appropriately. Layered clothing and a long-sleeved shirt and /or light jacket are recommended for sun and wind protection.

Restrictions –

• 48-hour cancellation policy. Click here for terms.
• All activities are at your own risk; these tours are best suited for the physically fit outdoor adventurer.
• No children under the age of 5, pregnant persons, or persons having recent back/neck surgeries or major injuries/issues. Any passenger doing in-water activity must be a competent swimmer .
• Private Charters: do NOT have age restrictions; however, they are recommended.
• Private charters are your boat for your time.
• Be aware there is No Smoking permitted on board the boat or at the dock per State law.

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Hawaii Ocean Rafting Lanai Snorkel Dolphin Watch Adventure (5Hr) $ 172.95

Not sure get a gift card $ 25.00 – $ 500.00.

LANA’I SNORKELING TOUR

Sail with us to the exclusive island of lanai, trip details.

Our Lana’i trip just got a serious upgrade with the addition of our new 65’ Gold Coast sailing catamaran. Formerly known as the Queen’s Treasure, the  ‘Alihilani  offers more amenities and accommodates even more guests. A larger and very capable sailing yacht, our capacity will now be at 49, with plenty of room to spread out and relax. A faster vessel under power means more flexibility around snorkeling sites, and additional time on the beach. Guests will now enjoy two full hours at Hulopo’e, the same great picnic with more freedom to explore!

Sail Maui is proud to offer a destination snorkel sail to the exclusive island of Lana’i. Join us on our newest vessel  ‘Alihilani  to discover why the island has been named one of the TOP 10 snorkel destinations in the world. Once known as the pineapple island, Lana’i is now famous for remote tropical beaches and tide pools, pristine reefs, and of course the spinner dolphins that frequent Manele Bay. On your honeymoon? Ask the crew about the breathtaking hike to check out Sweetheart Rock, and see why Travel + Leisure named Lana’i the No. 12 Most Romantic Island on the globe.

The adventure begins in Lahaina Harbor where we set out across the Au’ au’ channel to Lana’i. A light continental breakfast featuring some of Hawaii’s tastiest tropical fruit is served as you enjoy the panoramic view of the islands of Maui, Moloka’i, Kaho’olawe, and Lana’i. Our go to stop is the marine preserve of Manele Bay, but depending on conditions, we’ll seek out the most ideal snorkeling for the day! Once on Lana’i, Hulopo’e beach is just a 10 minute stroll away, one of the most stunning beaches in Hawaii. Enjoy your lunch at one of the many picnic tables, under a palm tree, or stretched out on the golden sand. Feel free to take our snorkel gear with you, or bring your own, as the reef here is incredibly beautiful! On the return trip, we’ll invite you to sit back and relax as we set our sails to head back to Maui.

•  Adults $200.00 
•  Children $100.00

Departure from Lahaina Harbor

• 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (7 Hours)
• Currently not active

Check In Times:

• 9:45 a.m. at Lahaina Harbor

Trip Includes:

• Snorkel gear & flotation
• Light Continental breakfast
• Picnic lunch of your choice
• Beverages including champagne, mai tais, & locally brewed beer
• Sail Maui provides complimentary reef safe sunscreen
• Wear your swimsuit and bring a towel!
• Light jacket recommended during winter months
• Limited to 40 Passengers
• 24-hour cancellation policy on all tours
• More questions? Check out our FAQ or get in touch !

**Sail Maui is temporarily waiving our 24-hour cancellation policy in light of COVID-19. Guests may reschedule or cancel up until the time of departure with a full refund should anyone in their party have symptoms or recent exposure.

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• Molokini Crater Snorkeling (17)
• Lanai Snorkeling Tours from Maui (5)
• Turtle Town Maui Snorkeling (13)
• Maui Snorkeling Tours for Beginners (10)
• Snorkeling Tours from Lahaina (5)
• Snorkeling Tours from Kaanapali (7)
• Snorkeling Tour from Maalaea Harbor (26)
• Honolua Bay Snorkeling (3)
• Private Snorkel Cruises (7)
• Dolphin Tours (3)
• Olowalu & Coral Gardens Snorkeling (5)

Lanai Snorkel Tour & Dolphin Watch Cruise with Lunch - PacWhale Eco Adventures

Amazing Event

Such a fun and beautiful trip, available daily, pick-up not available, not accessible, what to expect.

The reefs surrounding Lanai are healthy, colorful and teaming with marine life. You will see numerous species of tropical fish and possibly sea turtles

You will snorkel one of the many pristine snorkel sites off the coast of Lanai. The exact spot will be determined by the captain based on the ocean conditions for that day. His goal is to put you on the best snorkeling conditions possible.

Continental Breakfast: Banana Bread, Assorted Pastries, Fresh Island Fruit, Juice, Maui Coffee

BBQ Lunch: Chicken Breasts, Garden Burgers, Hot Dogs, Potato Salad, Veggie Salad, Chocolate Chip Cookies

Refreshments: Unlimited Soda, Juice and Filtered Water plus one(1) complimentary alcoholic beverage including Maui Brewing Co. Beer, Wine and Tropical Cocktails for adults 21+ with valid picture ID.

Vessel Description: A 65 foot high-tech, ultra-smooth, eco-friendly catamaran built for elegant at-sea dinning featuring a double deck, spacious cabin and sunbathing areas, galley bar, serving buffet, barbecue, freshwater shower, his/her restrooms. Vessel is equipped with U.S. Coast Guard approved Whale Protection Devices.

Check-in at Maalaea Harbor

Transportation add-ons

Pick-up/check-in time & location.

Drop-off/Check-out Time & Location

• Pacific Whale Foundation Ocean Store (Suite 211)

Parking information

• Please be advised that there is a fee for parking in Maʻalaea boat harbor lots along the waterfront and at the parking lot at the Maʻalaea Harbor Shops which fronts Maui Ocean Center. Pacific Whale Foundation is located in the Harbor Shops courtyard. If your party includes mobility challenged passengers, please park in the handicapped spots just in front of our Ocean Store. Then send a member of your party to check in at the store and to get further directions on driving to the boat.

Important activity information

Restrictions.

• This activity is not wheelchair accessible.
• Children of all ages can participate in this activity.
• Full face snorkel masks are not permitted on this snorkel cruise.
• Non-reef safe sunscreen is not permitted on the snorkel cruise. It is imperative to read the ingredient list as the term "reef safe" is not regulated and is commonly used as a marketing device.
• Sunscreen containing the following is not permitted: oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, avobenzine, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene, and ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate.

Additional notes

• The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
• The menu is subject to change without notice.
• Gratuity is not included in the price.

Required items to bring & attire

• A valid government-issued photo ID
• Swimming attire
• Sweatshirt / light jacket
• You must show a valid picture ID if you wish to consume any alcohol. Alcohol is only available after the snorkel and is limited to 3 drinks per adult over 21 years of age.

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Traveler's photos.

Overall rating

Gorgeous day on the water, I liked how this one goes all the way over to Lanai versus Molokini area!

We had so much fun during our Lanai trip. We saw whales, and dolphins on the way there and our way back to the harbor. The snorkeling was great and the staff were so caring and knowledgeable! The lunch was also a highlig ... ht for me, I wasn’t expecting such a nice spread. I cannot recommend it enough, it was truly worth it.

Awesome Day

Pods of dolphins made the whole family swim! Lots of knowledge given while on board.

Activity Provider PacWhale Eco-Adventures

Activity provider, payment / cancellation policy.

• Credit card payment

• Any cancellations made after 16:00 local time, 3 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.

Payment Methods

Cancellation Policy

Please visit VELTRA Support page to send an inquiry about this activity.

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Lanai, Maui

SNORKEL TOURS

Dolphin watching.

Locally owned and operated since 1982, we’ve been sharing Maui’s snorkeling tours experiences with guests for more than 30 years! Our Lanai snorkeling tours are small groups at uncrowded snorkel spots on Maui and Lanai where we see tropical fish, turtles and dolphin watch! Come share the a snorkel adventure of a lifetime with us!

$175 Total-NO Hidden Fees $107   Kids 4-12

DOLPHIN ADVENTURE & LANAI SNORKEL

4 hour tour: 9am-1pm, explore lanai's south coast, includes breakfast & snack, 2 snorkel stops, snorkel gear provided.

24HR Cancellation Policy No Children Under 4 Years Old

$200 Total-NO Hidden Fees $155   Kids 4-12

DELUXE DOLPHIN ADVENTURE & LANAI SNORKEL

6 hour tour: 8am-2pm, explore lanai's south coast to more remote locations with exclusive sight seeing includes lunch 3 snorkel stops snorkel gear provided, luxe snorkel, 4 hour luxury tour, snorkel tour.

Only 6 Guests Guaranteed Sightings Marine Naturalist Guides & Hydrophone Onboard! 24HR Cancellation Policy. No children under 4 years

Dolphins are seen 9/10 trips. Marine life sighting vary. Whale watching is included in the snorkel tours during migration season (Dec-April).

Small Group Snorkel Tours

Snorkel Maui & Lanai on a small group snorkel tour! Every seat is a front row seat!

Dolphins & Sea Turtles

Maui dolphin watching, snorkel with turtles, tropical fish and see sea cliff, rays, octopus & more!

Snacks & Drinks! Food

Beginner friendly.

Beginner friendly Maui snorkel instruction, snorkel gear, flotation devices and marine naturalist guides!

Maui Snorkeling

Tour details.

We provide reef safe sunscreen, mask, snorkel, fins, and flotation devices for your Maui, lanai snorkel trip!

Bring a towel, swimsuit, hat sunglasses and camera! We provide all your Lanai snorkeling gear and flotation devices! BYOB adult beverages!

Our marine naturalist guide will be onboard and in the water for your private charter giving you a guided whale watching tour of Maui and Lanai's underwater world.

This Maui snorkeling trip does not allow for guests with back injuries, neck injuries, or pregnant ladies. Must be 4yrs+ and able to swim.

Our Maui Snorkeling Tours and Dolphin Watch depart from Mala Boat Ramp, 1229 Front Street Lahaina, Hawaii 96761 in Maui! Meet us there half hour before your snorkel tour!

Top Maui Snorkel Tours

Marine animals, green sea turtles.

 TURTLE FACTS  

Maui's Dolphins

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Tropical Fish

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Humpback Whales (Seasonal)

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Maui Lanai Snorkeling Tips

Get the right snorkel gear., snorkel buddies, when in doubt, don't go out, snorkel with the locals.

Join us for a snorkel tour and we will guide you on an ocean adventure you will never forget!

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Best places to snorkel on Maui

West Maui offers beginner friendly snorkeling, turtle sightings and unique reefs! Traveling to Lanai from West Maui we often see dolphins and other unique marine life like whale sharks and rays! Some of Maui’s best snorkel locations are along the West Coast including Oluwalu, Mala Wharf and Honolua Bay. Here we snorkel with turtles and enjoy the calm waters protected by the leeward slopes of the West Maui mountains.

SNORKEL TOUR MAP

Marine Life on Lanai

Because Lanai’s reef is thriving , we see a variety of marine life! There are multiple types of coral reef we snorkel including cumulative, pinnacle and aggregate reef structures. Every reef is home to different sea creatures including Hawaiian green sea turtles, octopus, manta rays, dolphins, sharks, whale sharks and even seals. Many of the tropical fish that make their home on Lanai can’t be found anywhere else in the world!

Lanai was once a pineapple plantation and known as the Pineapple island

Best places to snorkel in Lanai

Lanai is our top destination for snorkeling tours . Known for it’s living reefs and breathtaking sea-cliffs, this island is home to many tropical fish species that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. There are more than a dozen remote snorkeling spots along the Lanai coast! Club Lanai, Manele Bay, Sweetheart Rock, and Shark Fin are a few of our favorite snorkel stops. Because Lanai has very little near shore development, the reef is much healthier and sustains more marine life. Some of these snorkel spots are along the sea cliff and showcase unique rock formations, swim throughs and even ancient burial grounds.

Maui LanaiDolphin Watching

Crossing the channel between Maui and Lanai we often see some of our favorite marine mammals, dolphins. Although Maui is home to 13 species of dolphins , we most commonly see spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and spotted dolphins. Maui is a protected sanctuary for humpback whales but also has protections in place for turtles and dolphins! Although dolphins are protected and we are not permitted to offer snorkeling with dolphins, the wild dolphins are very playful and curious and often swim along side our rafting vessels! Some dolphins travel in pods of hundreds of animals, making for an amazing viewing experience as they jump, spin, surf the wake and gracefully move through the water along side our boats!

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Dolphin watching on lanai

Snorkeling with Turtles

The Hawaiian green sea turtle is a popular resident on our Maui beaches and waters. A symbol of good luck and wisdom, the HONU , (Hawaiian word for green sea turtle), is Hawai i’s only indigenous turtle and an aumkua, or family god, in Hawaiian mythology. One of our favorite ocean activities is snorkeling with turtles on Maui. Maui is home to 3 species of native sea turtles including the Leatherback, Hawksbill and the most common Green Sea Turtle. Because al l sea turtles are either endangered or protected, we encourage respectful encounters which include never touching a sea turtle (this is actually against the law!) and giving turtles their space so they can interact naturally in their marine environment.

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Best Spots to Snorkel with Turtles in Maui

There are our top snorkeling spots we see Green sea turtles. Some of these snorkel locations you can swim to from shore, others are best reached from a boat during a turtle snorkel tour on Maui or Lanai!

A more remote location to snorkel with turtles would be the island of Lanai, about half hour boat ride from Lahaina, Maui. Leaving Maui by boat, we travel about 8 miles to the coast of Lanai, where there are more than a dozen remote snorkel spot to choose from. One favorite is Club Lanai, named for the reefs location set right outside the beach where Club Lanai was once a popular day club for tourist. Now the club is vacant but the reef is very much alive with marine life! Here we see our favorite green sea turtles, many tropical fish and often spot shy reef sharks cruising through the sandy reef channels.

Mala Wharf, Lahaina

Another popular Maui snorkel spot to see turtles is Mala Boat Ramp in Lahaina Maui. This snorkel spot may not look like much from the surface, but the underwater view is spectacular. Mala Boat Ramp was once used to load pineapples from the cannery onto boats, but with the end of pineapple farming, the ramp collapsed and was left to create an artificial reef. This spot can be reached by shore or by boat, and you’ll be stoked to see dozens of tropical fish, octopus, Hawaiian green sea turtles swimming, and even shy reef sharks sleeping near the reef structure.

Oluwalu reef located in Lahaina, Maui, is a popular snorkel destination and you can often spot green sea turtles swimming through the beautiful coral or hanging out in cleaning stations allowing fish to clean the algae from their shells. Oluwalu is also a great snorkel spot for snorkeling to turtles, it is shallow and is very protected from the wind, creating a calm place to explore the ocean. Some of Oluwalu can be snorkeled from shore, but to reach the outer reef it’s best to chartering a boat. This spot isn’t just home to Hawaiian green sea turtles, you can also see manta rays and tropical fish!

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Best Weather for Snorkeling

Is it ok to snorkel in the rain?

Because Maui is a tropical island, light rains are very typical but when Maui receives significant rainfall, the water run-off creates low visibility and murky water that you do not want to snorkel in. The weather throughout the island of Maui can be very different, sometimes there is rain in one area and often the other side of the island is experiencing no rain at all. It’s also important to know that many snorkel tours, including Ultimate’s Lanai snorkeling tours, leave Maui and snorkel the Lanai coast. Not only does decreased visibility make it difficult to see marine life, murky water has bacteria we don’t want to be swimming in, Not just for the experience, but also for safety, we do not recommend snorkeling when when the water looks brown or murky after heavy rainfall.

What about snorkeling in waves and wind?

Waves are caused by many factors including incoming swells from distant tropical storms, wind chop and other vessels. Snorkeling in mild waves is doable, but the main concern is it causing seasickness for snorkelers. If waves are more than mild, not only does it make entering from the shore, or driving from a boat difficult, it also can affect the water clarity as it is stirring up sand and soot. Most wave swells come in directions, North, South, East, West. Because Maui and Lanai are islands there is typically a location at all times that has calm waters. Our boat captains find the calmest water for snorkeling! Wind can be a tricky element as it not only affects your snorkel tour, but also the means to get to your snorkel location. If you are on a boat charter, heavy winds can make the boat ride bumpy and wet, blowing the ocean spray onto the deck of the vessel.

What is the best weather for snorkeling?

Being a tropical island, Maui has shifts in weather that can affect snorkeling. Some weather variables that can affect snorkeling conditions include rain, wind, current and cloud cover! One of the benefits of snorkel tours from Lahaina Harbor, is that the west side of Maui is located on the lee-ward side of the West Maui Mountains, blocking most weather from even reaching Lahaina, Maui. This makes Lahaina Maui snorkeling one of the calmest and driest locations on the island! Our captains use special weather reports, experience and our live weather camera so determine the best weather and locations for snorkeling!

• Lanai Snorkeling Tours from Maui

Maui Activities: Lanai Snorkeling Tours from Maui , Maui Water Activities & Ocean Sports

Maui Activities: Departing Kaanapali , Kaanapali Snorkeling Tours , Lanai Snorkeling Tours from Maui , Maui Boat Private Charters , Maui Specials , Maui Water Activities & Ocean Sports

Maui Activities: Departing Lahaina , Lanai Snorkeling Tours from Maui , Maui Water Activities & Ocean Sports , Whale Watching Maui

Maui Activities: Lanai Snorkeling Tours from Maui , Maui Water Activities & Ocean Sports , Whale Watching Maui

Maui Activities: Departing Lahaina , Kaanapali Snorkeling Tours , Lanai Snorkeling Tours from Maui , Maui Boat Private Charters , Maui Water Activities & Ocean Sports , Whale Watching Maui

Maui Activities: Lanai Snorkeling Tours from Maui , Maui Specials , Maui Water Activities & Ocean Sports , Whale Watching Maui

Lanai Island is 140 square miles in size, making it the sixth-largest Hawaiian Island.

Whether you are new to snorkeling or a seasoned diver, the island of Lanai is a popular destination. The island waters are calm and crystal clear with wide ranges of visibility to capture the sight of multiple varieties of marine life including rare tropical fish, colorful reefs, sea turtles, and dolphins.

History of Lanai

Although many of the Hawaiian Islands were inhabited by Polynesians between 300-600 AD, Lanai was not one of them. The island was feared by the people, as it was thought to have evil man-eating spirits. Thus, the first person to live on Lanai was the son of Maui chief Kakaalaneo. The chief’s son, Kauluaau had disobeyed the Kapu system, which resulted in his being banished to Lanai.

Because the island was thought to be haunted, no one ever expected Kauluaau to survive. However, his courage and diligence got him through. Each night he burned a fire, which his father could see from across the water; and eventually, Chief Kakaalaneo allowed his son back to Maui where Kauluaau was awarded control of Lanai. He convinced others to join him on the island where they built fishing villages and planted crops.

Life continued this way until the 1800s when King Kamehameha I was overruled. After much turmoil and strife, the island’s inhabitants and industry slowly expanded. Then in 1922, the Dole Food Company bought the island.

Lanai Today

To this day, it is the only privately owned island in Hawaii and was once home to Dole’s 19,000-acre pineapple plantation. While pineapples are still grown on the island, it has been scaled down to a mere 100 acres, catering only to businesses and residents on the island. The Dole Company became known as Castle & Cooke and is credited for creating Lanai into the attractive tourist destination that it is today.

However, privately owned or not, like all of Hawaii, the residents of Lanai embrace their culture and are dedicated to providing guests with an authentic aloha welcome. Known for its quiet atmosphere and beautiful beaches, the island of Lanai has been a preferred destination for many visitors seeking to escape the chaos of everyday life, including celebrities like Will Smith, Bill Gates, and Jessica Alba.

The Hawaiian island is home to the luxury Four Seasons Resort and a signature golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus. It also features unspoiled beaches, mountains, ATV rentals, and of course kayaking, dolphin tours, and snorkeling. Be careful when visiting Lanai, there are many dangers as the island is very raw and rugged.

Popular Lanai Snorkeling Sites

Lanai Island is excellent for snorkeling and provides multiple-level dive sites for everyone. There are snorkeling tours available on the island, or if you’re feeling adventurous and want to snorkel on your own, check out Manele Bay. Equipment can be rented from the nearby Four Seasons Lanai Resort, where you’ll discover the white sands of Hulopo’e Beach along with an abundance of coral reef formations and fish species.

Another popular spot to snorkel Lanai is Wash Rock. Wash Rock is located on the southern portion of Lanai and is recommended for intermediate to advanced-level divers. Water depths range from 4 – 65 feet and marine life consists of coral formations, butterflyfish, colorful sponges, moray eels, lobsters, and crabs. A lucky few may even spot the rare pipefish.

Snorkel with the Experts

Area tour companies offer snorkeling on Lanai as well and are familiar with the best spots. Plus, all snorkeling gear is provided along with snorkel training and safety tips. What better way to enjoy your water adventure and the quest to witness the breathtaking beauty of underwater sea life in the pristine waters of Lanai?

• Pacific Whale Foundation – The Pacific Whale Foundation offers daily tours that last approximately five hours each. The Lanai Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Cruise aboard the Ocean Quest includes breakfast, snorkel training, and a guided snorkeling tour of the reefs. This tour is referred to as an eco-adventure being that the Pacific Whale Foundation team members are among the first in the field of dolphin research. As experts in the field, they will take you to places in the ocean where you’re likely to catch a glimpse of dolphins, sea turtles, and even humpback whales during certain times of the year.
• Trilogy – Trilogy offers snorkeling trips to Hulopo’e Bay Monday-Friday throughout the year. Snorkeling here offers opportunities to see a large variety of sea life including spinner dolphins, reef fish, beautiful coral reefs, parrotfish, slate pencil urchins, peacock groupers, and more.

Hulopo’e Beach is on the southwestern corner of the island with ocean depths between 6 and 12 feet. With clear waters, large tide pools, and visibility of 80 ft. or more, it is a prime spot for world-class snorkeling.

• The Lanai Dolphin Adventure is available year-round on varying days. You’ll depart on an Explorer Super Raft from Lahaina Harbor and crosses the Au’au Channel to the island of Lanai. Upon arrival on the island, the captain will choose the best possible spots for guests to enjoy a snorkeling adventure and the possibility of seeing everything from manta rays, dolphins, tropical fish, and sea turtles. The tour lasts about 4.5 hours.
• The Lanai Landing Adventure tour includes refreshments aboard the Explorer Super Raft, a short hike to Hulopo’e Bay where guests can enjoy snorkeling, plus enjoy a few hours of unguided time to explore Sweetheart Rock and the public beach. This tour is available Monday, Wednesday, and Friday departs from Lahaina Harbor, and lasts approximately 6.5 hours.
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Quicksilver Charters Maui

Maui snorkeling, dolphin encounters, whale watching & sunset dinner cruises out of ma'alaea harbor, our featured maui excursions:, featured maui tours:.

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From Ma’alaea Harbor: Lanai Snorkel & Dolphin Encounter Aboard the Quicksilver

Snorkel Lanai, Maui, one of the most unique places you can snorkel on Maui.  Breakfast, lunch, drinks, and snorkel gear are included.  Join us for an exciting adventure at a beautiful, remote snorkeling location that’s home to a large pod of spinner dolphins.

From Ma’alaea Harbor: Turtle Town Afternoon Snorkel Aboard the Quicksilver

Join us for an afternoon snorkeling charter to the magnificent snorkel spot—Lahaina Turtle Town—home to turtles and a variety of beautiful Hawaiian fish! Lunch, drinks, and snorkel gear are included. Cheap adult drinks for purchase. Tours in Dec – April will also include Humpback Whale Watching if time allows!!  Sometimes we just can’t stop snorkeling.

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From Ma’alaea Harbor: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver

Enjoy prime rib or Mahi-Mahi while experiencing the best of West Maui.  A Maui dinner cruise is a must-due while on Island.   This tour offers a delicious dinner, drinks, island-style music, and incredible sunset views as the vessel gently cruises along the coast of the Valley Isle. A Perfect opportunity to relax with family and friends.

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From Ma'alaea Harbor: Molokini & Turtle Town Snorkel Tour Aboard the Calypso

Cruise on this high-speed, triple-decker catamaran for an epic snorkeling adventure at two incredible locations: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town! Swim in pristine waters teeming with colorful marine life.

Maui Private Charters

Enjoy a scenic private charter aboard the Quicksilver Catamaran in Maui! Activities, food, drinks, and duration options are all customizable to suit your groups needs. For more information and pricing details, give us a call today!

From Ma’alaea Harbor: Maui Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise Aboard Quicksilver

Give thanks Hawaiian style on this special holiday dinner cruise aboard the Quicksilver.

All Aboard the Quicksilver Catamaran in Maui

Join us for a one-of-a-kind adventure tour in Maui!

Leave the shores of Maui behind on the Lanai Snorkeling Tour and explore crystal blue waters of Lanai and snorkel with marine life.

Enjoy a Dinner Cruise with island-style music and incredible ocean views while you sip island drink favorites. It’s the perfect setting to enjoy a Maui sunset!

Join us for a humpback whale watching tour and enjoy educational narration while you cruise to the “cradle of the humpback”.

Join us for turtle town snorkeling in Maui, considered the premier snorkeling spot for encountering Hawaiian green sea turtles in all their magnificence and splendor.

No matter what excursion you choose, we guarantee it will be a highlight of your time spent in Maui. Ready for adventure? Book a tour online now!

Join us for a one-of-a-kind adventure!

Join us for a Humpback Whale Watching tour and enjoy educational narration while you cruise to the “cradle of the humpback”.

Top-Rated Boat Tours in Maui

So glad our family did this! We swam along with schools of beautiful fish and the majestic turtles. The turtles were absolutely incredible to watch in their natural habitat!! The gear was quality and the crew totally made the experience! Relaxing and floating was so amazingly peaceful. One of the lesser expensive excursions, and ended up being one of the best highlights for our family of 4, with two teens!

We have been in Maui for 2 weeks, and this was by far my favorite excursion, and the cheapest too! The crew was so awesome! I felt safe because they come in water with you. We saw so many turtles and sharks (reef sharks but I’d say 4ft long).The drinks were yummy (mai tai)! After snorkeling, we jumped off the boat and we did the slide as well. My kids are 12 & 17….they had a great time. I HIGHLY recommend this trip!

We booked a sunset cruise to celebrate our daughter's birthday and it was everything we wanted and more! The captain and crew were phenomenal and went above and beyond to give us a first class experience. Food was great, drinks were flowing, and the live music was the icing on the cake. The captain let our daughter sit behind the wheel for a little bit which was a special experience for her. We did several tours while in Maui, but this was by far the best!

My husband and I had so much fun! Our experience was top notch and the staff are so nice and friendly, felt super safe the entire time. The life guards watch the entire time to make sure everyone is having a great time while staying close and being safe. We saw so many turtles and beautiful fish, at the end of the tour we encountered a lot of dolphins and it really felt so magical. 100% recommend, it was definitely my favorite part of our vacation!

We had a fantastic time yesterday seeing three kinds of dolphins! Captain Heather just knew how to find them. She was so informed and humorous. Snorkeling off the boat in Lanai Bay was so amazing. Great visibility and tons of fish. We staying in the water for the full hour and never tired. Afterwards the party started when the bar opened. Very soon after, everyone on the boat was friends. Drinks were excellent and plentiful. Highly recommend, it was fantastic!

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6 of the Best Islands To Visit in Hawaii

H awaii is home to some of the most sought-after tropical waters in the world. The islands of Hawaii have lush rainforests, world-class beaches, and stunning volcanoes that attract millions of visitors every year . Marked by clear turquoise waters and vibrant green mountains, these islands provide picturesque views that are unparalleled.   

Along with the many environmental attractions and attributes of Hawaii, its culture is one of the most incredible features that travelers can experience. The Aloha Spirit, which many travelers get to experience as soon as they land, is a significant aspect of Hawaiian culture derived from Polynesian heritage. The term comes from the greeting “aloha,” which means the coordination of both the mind and heart (or compassion and harmony with mankind). This spirit exists across each of the islands of Hawaii. 

Hawaii’s many different islands offer unique features and gorgeous views. Travelers can have many different types of vacations, depending on their preferred island. While there are a total of eight main Hawaiian islands, only some of them are accessible to visitors. Check out these six Hawaiian islands that are the best to visit; whether a bustling tropical paradise or secluded getaway sounds ideal. 

Popular Tourist Islands 

These islands are tourist hot spots and provide convenient central locations. These locations come with top-notch hotels, delicious food spots, and metropolitan cities close to the water. The islands are a must-see for travelers aiming to get acquainted with the city and locals.  

The Big Island

The Big Island is full of hiking trails and beautiful parks and is known for its size. In fact, it has plenty of space for visitors with varying interests since it is the largest island in the United States (with over four thousand square miles of land). Beaches are one of the most beautiful spots to visit on the Big Island and a place for visitors to lounge, sunbathe, and have fun. A highly favored white sand beach is Mauna Kea, which is a half-mile long and extremely family-friendly. Mauna Kea is also the name of the nearby dormant volcano that is the world’s tallest mountain from (base to the summit), not to be confused with Mt. Everest (which is the tallest above sea level).

There are volcano sightseeing tours, stingray snorkel tours, and ship excursions on the Big Island. These activities, along with hiking, are the most popular. The Pololū Valley Trail is considered one of the most beautiful big island hikes since its overlook provides panoramic views of the nearby black sand beach. 

The best time to visit Hawaii’s big island is between September and November. This is technically due to the price changes for rooms, which change because of lower volumes of visitors. Since Hawaii has generally consistent weather, there is not too much to be worried about in terms of sunshine. Hawaii’s temperatures usually range from the 70s to the 80s. Surfers may want to visit between December and March, although this time period is when prices surge.

The island is beloved for its glorious coasts and unique experiences . Haleakala National Park has Maui’s highest peak, Haleakala, which is the largest dormant volcano in the world. Many visitors opt to book sunrise and sunset tours at the Haleakala National Park, which must be booked well ahead of time since they are so popular. There is even an adults only luxury resort in Maui. This island may be an ideal option for travelers who want to prioritize romance or quiet environments. 

Blue Hawaiian helicopter tours are another popular excursion that travelers can book to explore the island. With a helicopter tour of the island, travelers can get an aerial view of all the mountainsides and the scenic views of Maui. 

Travelers should visit Maui during the shoulder season, that is, during spring or fall. In spring (between April and May) and fall (from September and November), visitors can experience moderate weather while also avoiding the higher prices and crowds that visit during summer and winter. 

Oahu is well known since it is the site of Pearl Harbor and has one of the best shores for surfing. The tourism industry is thriving in Oahu, reflected in the quality of amenities and experiences it offers.  

Some of the most exciting things to do in Oahu include nature and historical landmarks. In fact, some of the most popular sights of Oahu are unique nature sites like China Walls or Electric Beach , which seem to exist miraculously. Of course, there are also historical sites that can be traced back to distinct events. There are Pearl Harbor tours that visit the museum, memorial and visitor’s center to provide more in-depth information regarding the events of Pearl Harbor. Many of these tours depart from Waikiki, which is a popular district of the city of Honolulu , Oahu.

Between April and June and September and December, attractions are less crowded, temperatures are moderate, and prices for travel decrease. The shoulder season is the best time to visit since the summer and surfing season crowds have not hit yet. 

Secluded Islands 

These islands of Hawaii are great options for those who want to reconnect with nature and have a sense of solitude. With more sprawling land than people, these locations will surely be the fix that tropical travelers need. 

Molokai 

Molokai is one of the four islands within Maui County and is one of the least visited of the major Hawaiian islands. The island is only 38 miles long and has a proudly undeveloped coastline. Molokai provides an off-the-beaten path and small-town feel, so large-scale tourism will not be found here. People planning to visit Molokai must be cognizant of the island’s people and resources since environmental and cultural preservation are local concerns. 

Molokai is a great place to have a relaxed and slow-going trip. Since the island is not commercially developed, there is a lot of wilderness. Enjoying the surrounding nature and the Aloha Spirit is the best way to spend time on Molokai. The most popular attractions are the Kalaupapa National Historical Park and Pāpōhaku Beach Park. The remote northern national park is a place of education and preservation and is actually only accessible by a mule ride, hiking tour or a small airplane. Pāpōhaku Beach Park (or three mile beach) has campsites, showers, and picnic facilities. Visitors will find that there is an abundance of space at the site since it is one of the longest white-sand beaches in Hawaii. 

The best time to visit Molokai is during the dry season when there are moderate temperatures and less rain. Between April and June, visitors can expect temperatures between the high 70s and 80s. Generally, since Molokai has no crowds, travelers will not have trouble visiting the island throughout the year. 

Kauai is the northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain and is known as the garden island since it is covered by tropical rainforest. The island also has breathtaking cliffs on the sea and beautiful flora and fauna. This destination has plenty of natural beauty and is a tropical paradise welcoming smaller towns like Waimea.

Travelers who love adrenaline-surging activities will appreciate the expanded possibilities that a less populated island provides. Travelers of Kauai enjoy things like exciting zipline journeys through the jungle, ATV backroads tours or kayaking trips on the Wailua River.

Visiting Kauai is better during non-peak seasons even though there is not a high volume of visitors compared to trendy tourist islands. Between September and December or April to June, there are lower prices on excursions and local accommodations . 

Lanai offers a luxury and remote experience that many romantics enjoy. Lanai has a historic town named Lanai City with small restaurants and shops for travelers to explore. The city is technically more like a small village since the community is so small. This island is a popular day trip destination, allowing tourists to experience authentic island living. 

Although the island is mainly uninhabited, there is plenty for visitors to see. There are unique sites to see on Lanai, including a well-known shipwreck at Shipwreck Beach (or Kaiolohia) that travelers go to see often. The 1940s shipwreck is a testament to how Hawaii’s windy and rocky beaches can be dangerous. Even though the beach has incredible views, visitors are not advised to swim there. 

The best time to visit Lanai is between June and November since those months are the warmest and driest months. Lanai is a secluded island, so travelers do not have to be concerned with crowds and can spend their time relaxing.