Maalaea
Tours

Our most recommended things to do in Maalaea

Ma'alaea Harbor: Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

Ma'alaea Harbor: Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

Board the comfortable and spacious double-deck power catamaran from Ma'alaea Harbor and cruise the Maui coastline to see the humpback whales, who return to Hawaii for a few months each year to mate and give birth. Get up close to these amazing animals to view their spectacular whale behaviors in their native environment Keep your eyes peeled for massive splashes across the horizon from whales slapping the surface with their fins and tails. See them spy-hop, when humpback whales come high out of the water to have a look around at the world above. See the majesty of a breaching whale, if you are lucky. This is when a whale rises completely out of the water and crashes down again. Don’t forget to bring your camera and take memorable photos from the shade of a spacious cabin.

South Maui: PM Snorkel to Coral Gardens or Molokini Crater

South Maui: PM Snorkel to Coral Gardens or Molokini Crater

Explore one of Maui’s most impressive sites on this relaxing afternoon catamaran cruise to Molokini Crater or Coral Gardens. Dive into the rich marine biodiversity of the reefs in this partially submerged volcanic crater or beautiful snorkel site off the West Maui coastline. Head to the meeting point at Maalaea Harbor for your check-in before boarding the Malolo catamaran. Set sail and admire the beautiful Pacific coastal views as you cruise towards your snorkel site. Stop at the ideal snorkeling location for that day determined by your captain based on ocean conditions. Food and drinks are included. Jump into the pleasant water and look for colorful fish like parrot fish, yellow tang, and cornet fish. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive spotted eagle ray. Feel free to rent wetsuits, digital underwater cameras, and prescription masks on the day of your activity to enhance your aquatic experience. After your unforgettable swim, relax with a soft drink or adult beverage (available to purchase) on deck as you return to your boarding point.

South Maui: Molokini & Turtle Town Snorkeling Tour with Meal

South Maui: Molokini & Turtle Town Snorkeling Tour with Meal

See Maui from a new perspective as you swim and snorkel alongside its marine life at Molokini and Turtle Town. Cruise to these famous snorkeling destinations by catamaran, and enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard. Meet your captain and crew near Maalaea Harbor for your check-in. Board the comfortable catamaran and enjoy a continental breakfast of pastries, muffins, fresh fruits, coffee, tea, juice, soda, and water as you head towards Molokini. Arrive at Molokini and admire the scenery of the extinct volcanic cone, home to around 250 different local species. Jump into the water and snorkel with native wildlife such as black triggerfish, yellow tang, and parrotfish. Continue onto Turtle Town, where you’ll swim with protected Hawaiian green sea turtles among the underwater lava formations. Rest assured a lifeguard will be in the water at all times as you snorkel around the beautiful coral gardens. Enjoy a deli lunch with flatbread turkey sandwiches or veggie burgers, potato salad, chips, fruit and veggie platters, and chocolate chip cookies, soft drinks, juice, and water. Choose to purchase beers or a Mai Tai, and relax in the shade of the cabin. Or top up your tan on the bow of the boat as you return to Ma'alaea Harbor.

Maui: Eco-Friendly Whale Watching Tour from Ma'alaea Harbor

Maui: Eco-Friendly Whale Watching Tour from Ma'alaea Harbor

Whale-watch with the experts on Maui's top-rated ecotour and see these amazing creatures in their natural wild habitat. Every excursion is led by certified Marine Naturalists for fun and informative interpretation of humpback whale behaviors and characteristics. Not only will you see these majestic creatures up close and personal, but your Marine Naturalist will provide an educational experience. Watch mothers and calves interact, see males compete for females, hear underwater whale songs – every trip is unique. Don't miss out on utilizing underwater hydrophones to hear whale songs. If you're bringing children, this family-friendly experience has onboard Jr. Naturalist Programs for kids. Don't forget to put on your Reef Safe Sunscreen, complimentary at check-in. For the more serious whale-watcher, this tour has affordable camera and binocular rentals. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to protecting our oceans through science and advocacy. All profits from these cruises support ocean research, education and conservation programs.

South Maui: Sunset Prime Rib or Mahi Mahi Dinner Cruise

South Maui: Sunset Prime Rib or Mahi Mahi Dinner Cruise

Watch the glow of the sunset on the Kahalawai Mountains, Lanai Island, and Molokini Crater on this sunset catamaran cruise from Ma’alaea. Keep an eye out for humpback whales (December through April) while listening to Hawaiian music. Savor a gourmet dinner and relax with two drinks from the bar. Depart from Ma’alaea Harbor and set off into the waves on a catamaran. After exiting the harbor, enjoy a complimentary drink before the dinner service kicks off. Explore the alcoves of the boat, gaze out over the ocean, and snap photos. While soaking up the tropical views, listen to island-style music. For dinner, chef Keoni will serve the succulent Hawaiian prime rib, Mahi Mahi, teriyaki chicken, ribs, steamed vegetables, white rice with soy sauce, and more. As you dine, take in views of Kaho’olawe and Lanai in the distance, as well as the top snorkeling location, Molokini Crater. Gaze out at the Kahalawai Mountains of Maui extending toward the sky. You are likely to see humpback whales visiting the islands from Alaska along with other marine mammals.

South Maui: Eco Friendly Molokini and Turtle Town Tour

South Maui: Eco Friendly Molokini and Turtle Town Tour

Discover the underwater worlds of Molokini crater and Turtle Arches on this cruise from Maui. Get instruction on how to snorkel before exploring the reef. Learn about this biodiverse environment from professional naturalists. Eat a delicious breakfast before starting your trip. Enjoy a continental breakfast including pastries, fruit, and coffee before sailing out to Molokini. Molokini, Maui’s iconic crescent-shaped islet, is a beautiful reef known for its crystal clear waters, abundant coral, colorful fish, and resting seabirds. A protected marine conservation area, this volcanic crater is only accessible by boat with a certified tour operator and is the #1 snorkeling destination in Maui. Learn about the history and nature of your surroundings and the efforts being made to protect the ocean here.  Following your time at Molokini, head to Turtle Arches and enjoy a bonus snorkel site with its underwater lava formations and frequent turtle sightings. Watch for sea turtles, eels, octopi, and other reef fish. Once you are done snorkeling and have worked up an appetite, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch of grilled chicken, burgers, and salad before heading back to Ma'alaea Harbor.

Maui: Molokini Snorkel and Performance Sail with Lunch

Maui: Molokini Snorkel and Performance Sail with Lunch

Discover Molokini aboard a fast-sailing catamaran, where your trip includes a continental breakfast on the leisurely sail across Ma’alaea Bay. Take in the stunning landscape that makes Maui special, and during whale season (December – May), spot the humpback whales as they swim nearby. While at Molokini, swim, snorkel, and rinse off with a freshwater shower. After snorkeling, indulge in a full lunch buffet and refresh with a variety of beverages, including wine and local beer. Maui’s afternoon trade winds can really get the boat going, so join the friendly crew at the helm and try your hand at sailing the high seas! 

From Ma'alaea: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver

From Ma'alaea: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver

Sip on cocktails and take in the Maui sunset while enjoying a three-course meal. Whether you're seated outside on the upper deck or in the cabin below, sit back and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The addition of island-style music provides the perfect ambiance for this idyllic Maui experience. Come on board the Quicksilver, a spacious double-deck catamaran that offers comfortable seating with generous table spacing for a more private intimate setting. Your meal begins with a fresh Caesar salad with homemade buttery croutons, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and warm breadsticks For the main course, your options are rosemary garlic roasted prime rib, fresh Mahi-Mahi with lemon buttery caper sauce, Kiawe smoked baby back ribs, BBQ roasted chicken leg and thigh combo, or penne pasta with fresh Thai basil marinara sauce (vegetarian option). On the side, enjoy sautéed vegetables and steamed white rice with shoyu sauce. For dessert, double-layer chocolate cake and New York style cheesecake

South Maui: Molokini Snorkeling Adventure

South Maui: Molokini Snorkeling Adventure

Embark on a half-day snorkeling adventure on a glass-bottomed catamaran, with breakfast, lunch, and a professional crew included. Look out for all types of Pacific marine life, from dolphins to turtles and coral reefs, in 2 snorkeling spots - Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.  Begin your tour at Maalaea Harbor to board your boat. Join the crew aboard the Calypso, Maui's newest addition to the fleet, where you can even view the ocean from its glass bottom viewing room. Calypso is the only 3-deck catamaran in Hawai'i. Benefit from an easy-to-use stairway in and out of the water, lots of shade, and plenty of Jimmy Buffet music.  Start the day off right with a hearty breakfast that includes scrambled eggs, pork sausage links, mixed muffins, pastries, fruit, coffee, tea, and juice. Next, be dazzled by Molokini Crater, located off the south shore of Kihei. Expect pristine conditions as Molokini is a protected marine preserve and bird sanctuary.  See how the extinct volcanic cone provides a home for native Hawaiian marine life such as manta rays, fish, urchins, and sharks, who all swim around the coral through the clear water year-round. Use the provided snorkeling equipment to explore the underwater world.  Take advantage of the 2 water slides to make it more fun, especially for kids. And fret not— a lifeguard is always in the water watching over the snorkelers to ensure their safety. After leaving Molokini, your second snorkeling spot of the day is Turtle Town, where you will swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles amid the calm water and coral. Then, return to the boat for a relaxing turkey or bbq pulled pork sandwich lunch. Some of the tour’s top amenities include 2 slides, a jumping platform, 2 freshwater showers, use of snorkeling gear, flotation devices, and restrooms on the boat. There are 11 stair points to get into the water for easy and comfortable access. Wetsuits and underwater digital cameras are available to rent once onboard.

From Ma'alaea: Afternoon Whale Watch Tour Aboard the Malolo

From Ma'alaea: Afternoon Whale Watch Tour Aboard the Malolo

Depart from Maalaea Harbor, easily located off the highway with ample parking. This high-speed catamaran is located at Slip 87 near Coast Guard Station. While on board, enjoy complimentary juices and sodas, and a variety of alcoholic beverages. The optimal whale watching season starts in December and goes through April, during which thousands of humpback whales return to Hawaii for a few months each year to mate and give birth. Depending on the whales’ behavior during your two-hour whale watching trip, you may see any number of whale activity happening, from tail flapping to full body breaching. Keep your eyes peeled for whales slapping the surface with pectoral fins (their very long side fins), flukes (the tail), and the peduncle (the strong muscles attaching the tail to the rest of the body). Keep your fingers crossed for a breach - this is when a whale rises completely out of the water and crashes down again. And most importantly, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture a picture of these amazing animals.

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Our most recommended things to do in Maalaea

Ma'alaea Harbor: Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

Ma'alaea Harbor: Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise

Board the comfortable and spacious double-deck power catamaran from Ma'alaea Harbor and cruise the Maui coastline to see the humpback whales, who return to Hawaii for a few months each year to mate and give birth. Get up close to these amazing animals to view their spectacular whale behaviors in their native environment Keep your eyes peeled for massive splashes across the horizon from whales slapping the surface with their fins and tails. See them spy-hop, when humpback whales come high out of the water to have a look around at the world above. See the majesty of a breaching whale, if you are lucky. This is when a whale rises completely out of the water and crashes down again. Don’t forget to bring your camera and take memorable photos from the shade of a spacious cabin.

South Maui: PM Snorkel to Coral Gardens or Molokini Crater

South Maui: PM Snorkel to Coral Gardens or Molokini Crater

Explore one of Maui’s most impressive sites on this relaxing afternoon catamaran cruise to Molokini Crater or Coral Gardens. Dive into the rich marine biodiversity of the reefs in this partially submerged volcanic crater or beautiful snorkel site off the West Maui coastline. Head to the meeting point at Maalaea Harbor for your check-in before boarding the Malolo catamaran. Set sail and admire the beautiful Pacific coastal views as you cruise towards your snorkel site. Stop at the ideal snorkeling location for that day determined by your captain based on ocean conditions. Food and drinks are included. Jump into the pleasant water and look for colorful fish like parrot fish, yellow tang, and cornet fish. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive spotted eagle ray. Feel free to rent wetsuits, digital underwater cameras, and prescription masks on the day of your activity to enhance your aquatic experience. After your unforgettable swim, relax with a soft drink or adult beverage (available to purchase) on deck as you return to your boarding point.

South Maui: Molokini & Turtle Town Snorkeling Tour with Meal

South Maui: Molokini & Turtle Town Snorkeling Tour with Meal

See Maui from a new perspective as you swim and snorkel alongside its marine life at Molokini and Turtle Town. Cruise to these famous snorkeling destinations by catamaran, and enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard. Meet your captain and crew near Maalaea Harbor for your check-in. Board the comfortable catamaran and enjoy a continental breakfast of pastries, muffins, fresh fruits, coffee, tea, juice, soda, and water as you head towards Molokini. Arrive at Molokini and admire the scenery of the extinct volcanic cone, home to around 250 different local species. Jump into the water and snorkel with native wildlife such as black triggerfish, yellow tang, and parrotfish. Continue onto Turtle Town, where you’ll swim with protected Hawaiian green sea turtles among the underwater lava formations. Rest assured a lifeguard will be in the water at all times as you snorkel around the beautiful coral gardens. Enjoy a deli lunch with flatbread turkey sandwiches or veggie burgers, potato salad, chips, fruit and veggie platters, and chocolate chip cookies, soft drinks, juice, and water. Choose to purchase beers or a Mai Tai, and relax in the shade of the cabin. Or top up your tan on the bow of the boat as you return to Ma'alaea Harbor.

Maui: Eco-Friendly Whale Watching Tour from Ma'alaea Harbor

Maui: Eco-Friendly Whale Watching Tour from Ma'alaea Harbor

Whale-watch with the experts on Maui's top-rated ecotour and see these amazing creatures in their natural wild habitat. Every excursion is led by certified Marine Naturalists for fun and informative interpretation of humpback whale behaviors and characteristics. Not only will you see these majestic creatures up close and personal, but your Marine Naturalist will provide an educational experience. Watch mothers and calves interact, see males compete for females, hear underwater whale songs – every trip is unique. Don't miss out on utilizing underwater hydrophones to hear whale songs. If you're bringing children, this family-friendly experience has onboard Jr. Naturalist Programs for kids. Don't forget to put on your Reef Safe Sunscreen, complimentary at check-in. For the more serious whale-watcher, this tour has affordable camera and binocular rentals. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to protecting our oceans through science and advocacy. All profits from these cruises support ocean research, education and conservation programs.

South Maui: Sunset Prime Rib or Mahi Mahi Dinner Cruise

South Maui: Sunset Prime Rib or Mahi Mahi Dinner Cruise

Watch the glow of the sunset on the Kahalawai Mountains, Lanai Island, and Molokini Crater on this sunset catamaran cruise from Ma’alaea. Keep an eye out for humpback whales (December through April) while listening to Hawaiian music. Savor a gourmet dinner and relax with two drinks from the bar. Depart from Ma’alaea Harbor and set off into the waves on a catamaran. After exiting the harbor, enjoy a complimentary drink before the dinner service kicks off. Explore the alcoves of the boat, gaze out over the ocean, and snap photos. While soaking up the tropical views, listen to island-style music. For dinner, chef Keoni will serve the succulent Hawaiian prime rib, Mahi Mahi, teriyaki chicken, ribs, steamed vegetables, white rice with soy sauce, and more. As you dine, take in views of Kaho’olawe and Lanai in the distance, as well as the top snorkeling location, Molokini Crater. Gaze out at the Kahalawai Mountains of Maui extending toward the sky. You are likely to see humpback whales visiting the islands from Alaska along with other marine mammals.

South Maui: Eco Friendly Molokini and Turtle Town Tour

South Maui: Eco Friendly Molokini and Turtle Town Tour

Discover the underwater worlds of Molokini crater and Turtle Arches on this cruise from Maui. Get instruction on how to snorkel before exploring the reef. Learn about this biodiverse environment from professional naturalists. Eat a delicious breakfast before starting your trip. Enjoy a continental breakfast including pastries, fruit, and coffee before sailing out to Molokini. Molokini, Maui’s iconic crescent-shaped islet, is a beautiful reef known for its crystal clear waters, abundant coral, colorful fish, and resting seabirds. A protected marine conservation area, this volcanic crater is only accessible by boat with a certified tour operator and is the #1 snorkeling destination in Maui. Learn about the history and nature of your surroundings and the efforts being made to protect the ocean here.  Following your time at Molokini, head to Turtle Arches and enjoy a bonus snorkel site with its underwater lava formations and frequent turtle sightings. Watch for sea turtles, eels, octopi, and other reef fish. Once you are done snorkeling and have worked up an appetite, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch of grilled chicken, burgers, and salad before heading back to Ma'alaea Harbor.

Maui: Molokini Snorkel and Performance Sail with Lunch

Maui: Molokini Snorkel and Performance Sail with Lunch

Discover Molokini aboard a fast-sailing catamaran, where your trip includes a continental breakfast on the leisurely sail across Ma’alaea Bay. Take in the stunning landscape that makes Maui special, and during whale season (December – May), spot the humpback whales as they swim nearby. While at Molokini, swim, snorkel, and rinse off with a freshwater shower. After snorkeling, indulge in a full lunch buffet and refresh with a variety of beverages, including wine and local beer. Maui’s afternoon trade winds can really get the boat going, so join the friendly crew at the helm and try your hand at sailing the high seas! 

From Ma'alaea: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver

From Ma'alaea: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver

Sip on cocktails and take in the Maui sunset while enjoying a three-course meal. Whether you're seated outside on the upper deck or in the cabin below, sit back and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The addition of island-style music provides the perfect ambiance for this idyllic Maui experience. Come on board the Quicksilver, a spacious double-deck catamaran that offers comfortable seating with generous table spacing for a more private intimate setting. Your meal begins with a fresh Caesar salad with homemade buttery croutons, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and warm breadsticks For the main course, your options are rosemary garlic roasted prime rib, fresh Mahi-Mahi with lemon buttery caper sauce, Kiawe smoked baby back ribs, BBQ roasted chicken leg and thigh combo, or penne pasta with fresh Thai basil marinara sauce (vegetarian option). On the side, enjoy sautéed vegetables and steamed white rice with shoyu sauce. For dessert, double-layer chocolate cake and New York style cheesecake

South Maui: Molokini Snorkeling Adventure

South Maui: Molokini Snorkeling Adventure

Embark on a half-day snorkeling adventure on a glass-bottomed catamaran, with breakfast, lunch, and a professional crew included. Look out for all types of Pacific marine life, from dolphins to turtles and coral reefs, in 2 snorkeling spots - Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.  Begin your tour at Maalaea Harbor to board your boat. Join the crew aboard the Calypso, Maui's newest addition to the fleet, where you can even view the ocean from its glass bottom viewing room. Calypso is the only 3-deck catamaran in Hawai'i. Benefit from an easy-to-use stairway in and out of the water, lots of shade, and plenty of Jimmy Buffet music.  Start the day off right with a hearty breakfast that includes scrambled eggs, pork sausage links, mixed muffins, pastries, fruit, coffee, tea, and juice. Next, be dazzled by Molokini Crater, located off the south shore of Kihei. Expect pristine conditions as Molokini is a protected marine preserve and bird sanctuary.  See how the extinct volcanic cone provides a home for native Hawaiian marine life such as manta rays, fish, urchins, and sharks, who all swim around the coral through the clear water year-round. Use the provided snorkeling equipment to explore the underwater world.  Take advantage of the 2 water slides to make it more fun, especially for kids. And fret not— a lifeguard is always in the water watching over the snorkelers to ensure their safety. After leaving Molokini, your second snorkeling spot of the day is Turtle Town, where you will swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles amid the calm water and coral. Then, return to the boat for a relaxing turkey or bbq pulled pork sandwich lunch. Some of the tour’s top amenities include 2 slides, a jumping platform, 2 freshwater showers, use of snorkeling gear, flotation devices, and restrooms on the boat. There are 11 stair points to get into the water for easy and comfortable access. Wetsuits and underwater digital cameras are available to rent once onboard.

From Ma'alaea: Afternoon Whale Watch Tour Aboard the Malolo

From Ma'alaea: Afternoon Whale Watch Tour Aboard the Malolo

Depart from Maalaea Harbor, easily located off the highway with ample parking. This high-speed catamaran is located at Slip 87 near Coast Guard Station. While on board, enjoy complimentary juices and sodas, and a variety of alcoholic beverages. The optimal whale watching season starts in December and goes through April, during which thousands of humpback whales return to Hawaii for a few months each year to mate and give birth. Depending on the whales’ behavior during your two-hour whale watching trip, you may see any number of whale activity happening, from tail flapping to full body breaching. Keep your eyes peeled for whales slapping the surface with pectoral fins (their very long side fins), flukes (the tail), and the peduncle (the strong muscles attaching the tail to the rest of the body). Keep your fingers crossed for a breach - this is when a whale rises completely out of the water and crashes down again. And most importantly, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture a picture of these amazing animals.

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What people are saying about Maalaea

Overall rating

4.6
(1,789 reviews)

Great value as other snorkeling trips are at least double what I paid and 4 hours was plenty of time to snorkel especially for beginners. The crew was excellent and very helpful

Our guide had a lot of knowledge about whales, but he favored the front and right side of the boat. Therefore, if you want the best experience, sit in the front of the boat.

He was very informative about the whales, and it was cool listening to the sounds they make. We did see 1 breach which was really cool but I would have liked to see more!

We had a nice time. Guides were fun, knowledgeable and took good care of their clients.

the whale sightings were amazing. Good food and drinks