Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
water and follow it in a ring around the right side of the bay. If you're on a mission to find
Hawaiian green sea turtles, the best spot to check out is the
turtle cleaning station
on the
right/center of the bay. It's about 200 yards out from the boat ramp, in line with the bend
in the cliff on the right side of the bay, and in about 15-20 feet of water. If you're fortu-
nate enough to snorkel Honolua Bay during winter, dive a few feet underwater to listen for
the distant song of humpback whales. Keep a keen eye out for boat traffic, as a number of
catamarans make their approach through the middle of the bay.
Mokulei'a Bay
Parking for
Mokulei'a Bay
is along the highway 1.5 miles past the entrance to Kapalua,
and the best snorkeling is in the cove on the right side of the bay. Even though Mokulei'a
is still a part of the Honolua Marine Life Conservation District, the reef here is completely
different than at Honolua Bay, so you're likely to see different species than you would
right around the corner. Although there's still the likelihood of seeing a sea turtle, there's
also a chance for some spotted eagle rays swimming over the sand by the end of the point
or perhaps an octopus clinging to the wall at the far end of the cove. Mokulei'a is a little
more exposed to the afternoon trade winds, so morning hours during flat, calm days are
the best time for snorkeling.
Namalu Bay (Cliffhouse)
The hidden, craggy shoreline of
Namalu Bay (Cliffhouse)
offers a relaxing setting that
could be compared to a Mediterranean coastal village. You can spot green sea turtles, reef
fish, and the occasional eagle or manta ray. The center of the bay is about 40 feet deep,
whereas the areas ringing the shoreline are a more manageable 5-15 feet. When hanging
out on shore, the rocks are the perfect height for cliff jumping, or laying out in the sun and
soaking up some rays.
SNORKELING 101
Thousands of island visitors annually strap on a mask for a peek at the underwater
world. For those who have never snorkeled, however, the act of breathing through a
tube in the middle of the ocean can be harrowing. Follow these basic snorkeling tips
for a better first-time experience.
1. Choose the right equipment.
Any successful snorkeling mission begins with
the proper equipment. Make sure the mask fits by holding it to your face and suck-
