Honolua Bay

Maui Beach Guide

Honolua Bay

Honolua Bay is a protected northwest Maui marine bay known for summer snorkeling and diving, winter surf, coral reefs, rocky shoreline access and no lifeguards.

Honolua Bay, Maui

The beach at Honolua Bay is quite small and primarily made up of boulders with a few scattered patches of sand, so surfing, snorkeling and scuba diving are the main activities here. The bay is a favorite spot among experienced surfers. During the winter months, the waves here are powerful. That's why snorkeling and scuba diving are only possible during the calmer summer months.

Honolua Bay is part of the Mokuleia Marine Life Conservation District. This protected area encompasses Honolulu Bay and neighboring Mokuleia Bay (commonly known as Slaughterhouse Beach). When the waters are calm, it's a good spot to explore the bay's underwater world as there are many coral formations and an abundance of fish. The nearshore waters are usually murky especially if it has recently rained (because of Honolua Stream that empties into the bay), but the water is clearer a bit offshore.

Visitor Reviews

Reviews and Ratings

3.0

Rated 3.0 out of 5 based on 1 rated visitor review.

Add Your Review
Your rating

Reviews are checked before they appear on the site. If a rating is not selected, the comment will not affect the average rating.

Chrispy

Mon Aug 23, 2021

This is a great option for snorkeling in the Summer, the prevailing winds can make the South beaches murky. It’s a bit tricky to enter (slippery rocks)and there is no beach but it’s a pretty little spot

Location, Parking and Directions

Honolua Bay is located along Honoapiilani Highway in Lahaina, HI 96761, on Maui's northwest coast. About a half mile past mile marker 32, a small parking lot provides access to a path that leads down to the bay.

Loading map…

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Honolua Bay located?

Honolua Bay is located along Honoapiilani Highway on Maui's northwest coast, about a half mile past mile marker 32.

Is Honolua Bay good for snorkeling?

Yes. Honolua Bay can be good for snorkeling during calm summer conditions, when the water is clear and surf is low.

Can you surf at Honolua Bay?

Yes. Honolua Bay is known for powerful winter surf and is best suited for experienced surfers when waves are active.

Are there lifeguards at Honolua Bay?

No. The source page lists no lifeguards at Honolua Bay.

What facilities are available at Honolua Bay?

Facilities include showers, portable toilets, parking and no lifeguards.