Slaughterhouse Beach Mokuleia Bay
A secluded Maui beach renowned for incredible snorkeling, frequent sea turtle sightings, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Slaughterhouse Beach Mokuleia Bay
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded Maui beach renowned for incredible snorkeling, frequent sea turtle sightings, and a peaceful atmosphere.
"Awesome beach for snorkeling, body surfing, and just lounging on the sand. "
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Arrive before 9 AM to snag one of the few spots. :car:
🐢 Turtle Spotting
You're almost guaranteed to see honu! Keep a respectful distance. :turtle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Abundant Marine Life
Ocean waters
Snorkel alongside sea turtles (honu) and a vibrant array of fish in clear, calm waters.
Secluded Beach Vibe
Sandy shoreline
Enjoy a less crowded beach experience, perfect for sunbathing and relaxing away from the main tourist hubs.
Body Surfing Waves
Shoreline
Catch gentle to moderate waves ideal for body surfing and playful water activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visitation Post-Fire
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Arrive before 9 AM to snag one of the few spots. +1 :car:
🐢 Turtle Spotting
You're almost guaranteed to see honu! Keep a respectful distance. +1 :turtle:
🥾 Stairway to Paradise
Be ready for a long staircase down to the beach. Wear appropriate footwear. :athletic_shoe:
🐔 Beware of Chickens!
Wild chickens roam freely. Guard your snacks! :poultry_leg:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Arrive before 9 AM to snag one of the few spots. +1 :car:
🐢 Turtle Spotting
You're almost guaranteed to see honu! Keep a respectful distance. +1 :turtle:
🥾 Stairway to Paradise
Be ready for a long staircase down to the beach. Wear appropriate footwear. :athletic_shoe:
🐔 Beware of Chickens!
Wild chickens roam freely. Guard your snacks! :poultry_leg:
🌊 Water Conditions
Generally calm, but can get choppy. Check conditions before entering. :ocean:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Slaughterhouse Beach for its exceptional snorkeling, frequent sea turtle sightings, and less crowded atmosphere compared to other Maui beaches. The limited parking and long staircase are noted drawbacks, but many find the marine life and serene environment well worth the effort. +1
"Awesome beach for snorkeling, body surfing, and just lounging on the sand. Pretty limited parking, which keeps the beach from getting too crowded. Rented some snorkel gear in town and swam with a turtle within 10 minutes of getting in the water. Tons of fish to see and the water was perfect and not too choppy. I would definitely recommend this beach if you want to find some awesome sea life on your snorkeling adventure!"
Casey Lauer
"We love coming here when we're in Maui. Every time I've been there are very little people. It's a hidden gem. Very limited parking off the side of the highway but we've never had any issues. We have seen honu every time we've gone. The waves aren't too rough but also not the smoothest. But still friendly enough to get in. FYI there is stairs to get down to the beach"
Chasen Callaway
"Fantastic! Great for snorkeling and not too crowded. We went in the morning and had some great weather. There is a long staircase to get down to the beach, but easily done."
Nick Livengood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Slaughterhouse Beach, also known as Mokuleia Bay, is located on the north shore of Maui, between Kapalua and Honolua. Access is via a narrow, unmarked pull-off on the Honoapiilani Highway. Parking is extremely limited, so arriving early is crucial. +1
Parking is very scarce, with only a few spots available along the highway. It's best to arrive early in the morning, especially on weekends or holidays, to secure a spot. +1
After parking, you'll need to navigate a long staircase to reach the sandy shore. Wear comfortable shoes for the descent and ascent.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Slaughterhouse Beach is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. Access is free for all visitors.
As a natural beach, Slaughterhouse Beach does not have set operating hours. It is accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, due to limited parking and safety considerations, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Slaughterhouse Beach is renowned for its excellent snorkeling opportunities, where you can often spot sea turtles and a variety of fish. It's also great for body surfing, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the scenic beauty. +1
Yes, it's considered one of Maui's best snorkeling spots. The clear waters and abundant marine life, including frequent turtle sightings, make it a must-visit for snorkelers. +1
There are no public restrooms or facilities directly at Slaughterhouse Beach. Visitors should plan accordingly and use facilities in nearby towns like Kapalua or Lahaina if needed.
Yes, swimming is generally safe, especially in the calmer sections. However, conditions can vary, and it's advisable to check the water before entering. The waves can be good for body surfing.
Bring your snorkel gear, sunscreen, a towel, water, snacks, and wear sturdy shoes for the stairs. Be mindful of the wild chickens and secure your food.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food vendors or restaurants directly at Slaughterhouse Beach. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks or dine in nearby areas like Kapalua or Lahaina.
The closest dining options are in Kapalua, which offers several restaurants, or a short drive further south to Lahaina for a wider selection.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the coastline, the turquoise waters, and especially the sea turtles if you're lucky enough to spot them. The staircase also offers a unique perspective.
While beautiful, the beach faces north, so it's not ideal for direct sunrise or sunset views. However, the golden hour light can still create beautiful coastal scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the waves are generally not too rough, they can be suitable for body surfing for older children. It's always wise to supervise children closely in and around the water. Due to the limited parking, arriving very early is essential for families to ensure they can access the beach comfortably. Consider bringing snacks and drinks as there are no facilities on-site.
🐠 Snorkel Enthusiasts
The beach's location, away from some of the more developed resort areas, contributes to its appeal for snorkelers seeking a more natural and less crowded underwater experience. The relatively calm conditions, though variable, are generally favorable for snorkeling.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Marine Life Encounters
Many visitors recommend renting snorkel gear from local shops in towns like Lahaina or Kapalua before heading to the beach. This ensures you have quality equipment to make the most of your underwater exploration. The abundance of fish and the chance to swim alongside a majestic sea turtle are consistently highlighted as the top reasons people visit Slaughterhouse Beach.
Navigating Access and Parking
Once parked, visitors must descend a significant staircase to reach the sandy shoreline.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit