Olowalu Reef Mile 14
Snorkel an extensive coral reef teeming with sea turtles and tropical fish, easily accessed from a sandy beach with convenient roadside parking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best visibility for snorkeling
Olowalu Reef Mile 14
Best Time
Best visibility for snorkeling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Snorkel an extensive coral reef teeming with sea turtles and tropical fish, easily accessed from a sandy beach with convenient roadside parking.
"Lovely low tide beach with beginner friendly snorkeling. It was our favorite beach in Maui!"
🥾 Water Shoes Essential
Rocky entry and sea urchins make water shoes a must for comfortable access and safety .
🍍 Quench Your Thirst
Don't miss the famous pineapple juice at the Olowalu Juice Stand!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Olowalu Coral Reef
Offshore from Mile 14
Vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life, including sea turtles and tropical fish.
Sea Turtle Encounters
Olowalu Beach
A prime spot to witness Hawaiian green sea turtles gracefully swimming in their natural habitat.
Olowalu Juice Stand
Highway 30
Refreshing, fresh-squeezed pineapple juice served in a pineapple, a local favorite.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Olowalu Reef
Access and Amenities at Olowalu
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Water Shoes Essential
Rocky entry and sea urchins make water shoes a must for comfortable access and safety.
🍍 Quench Your Thirst
Don't miss the famous pineapple juice at the Olowalu Juice Stand!
🐢 Turtle Spotting
Keep an eye out for sea turtles; they are frequently spotted here.
🚗 Roadside Parking
Park conveniently along the highway for easy beach access and shorter gear hauls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Water Shoes Essential
Rocky entry and sea urchins make water shoes a must for comfortable access and safety.
🍍 Quench Your Thirst
Don't miss the famous pineapple juice at the Olowalu Juice Stand!
🐢 Turtle Spotting
Keep an eye out for sea turtles; they are frequently spotted here.
🚗 Roadside Parking
Park conveniently along the highway for easy beach access and shorter gear hauls.
🐠 Beginner Snorkel Spot
Easy entry and good visibility make it ideal for novice snorkelers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Olowalu Reef is praised as a beginner-friendly snorkeling spot with easy access and abundant marine life, particularly sea turtles. Visitors appreciate the convenient roadside parking and the refreshing Olowalu Juice Stand. However, some note that fish diversity can vary, and facilities are minimal, with a recommendation to wear water shoes due to rocky areas and sea urchins.
"Nice protected Cove where you can easily get into snorkel. It was low tide when I was there, so many of the corals were close to the surface. Be careful not to touch them and watch out for sea urchins on the bottom. There is a rocky Beach but also a sand covered entryway where you can walk into the water easily.
If you're more experienced and swimming and snorkeling. This is a good place for a beginner.
We went there and there were very few people there so this was not a crowded place to be. Parking was free, and there are porta potties to use if you need to use the restroom.
There's a historic site there of an Old Sugar Factory as you enter the beach."
James W
"We’re afraid to get out of our car… the sign clearly says security cameras & no overnight parking, however, this car looks like it’s been here for a while."
Sally Owens
"Lovely low tide beach with beginner friendly snorkeling. It was our favorite beach in Maui!"
Alyssa Galmish
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Olowalu Reef is located along the Honoapiilani Highway (Highway 30) on the west side of Maui. Look for Mile Marker 14. Parking is available along the side of the road, offering direct access to the beach and reef area.
Public transportation options to Olowalu are limited. It's generally recommended to have a rental car for easy access to this scenic stretch of coastline and its attractions.
The reef is accessible directly from the beach. There are sandy entry points between rocky and coral areas, making it relatively easy for snorkelers of all levels to get in the water.
Yes, as you enter the beach area, you might notice remnants of an old sugar factory, adding a touch of history to your visit.
Driving along the Honoapiilani Highway can be scenic but also winding. Be mindful of other drivers, cyclists, and the occasional pedestrian. Some areas have security cameras, so avoid leaving valuables in your car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to access Olowalu Beach or snorkel at the reef. It's a public access area, and parking is free.
Olowalu Beach and Reef are accessible at any time, as it's a natural public space. However, for safety and the best experience, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
There is no entrance fee for Olowalu Beach. Access to the beach and the snorkeling reef is free for all visitors.
Olowalu Beach does not offer reservations. It's a first-come, first-served area, and parking is available along the roadside.
While there aren't official tours for the reef itself, many West Maui tours include stops near Olowalu or mention its significance.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Olowalu Reef is known for its diverse marine life, including Hawaiian green sea turtles, various tropical fish, and sometimes even manta rays. You'll also find abundant coral formations.
Yes, Olowalu Reef is considered a good spot for beginner snorkelers due to its easy entry points and generally calm waters, especially during low tide.
It's highly recommended to wear water shoes to protect your feet from rocks and sea urchins. A rash guard is also advisable for sun protection.
The best conditions are during low tide when the coral is less exposed and visibility is often better. Mornings can also be less cloudy.
There are porta-potties available for restroom use. However, there are no sand showers or changing facilities at Olowalu Beach.
🍽️ 🍍 Food & Dining
A popular stop is the Olowalu Juice Stand, located next to the Olowalu Farmers Market, famous for its fresh pineapple juice served in a pineapple.
Yes, Olowalu Beach is a great spot for a picnic. Many visitors bring their own food and enjoy it with the ocean view.
There are no restaurants directly adjacent to Olowalu Reef. You'll find dining options in nearby Lahaina or further south towards Kihei.
The fresh pineapple juice is a must-try! They also offer other refreshing fruit juices.
Yes, the Olowalu Farmers Market is located near the juice stand, offering local produce and goods.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the coral reefs, marine life, and the scenic coastline. Drone footage offers breathtaking aerial views of the area.
Early mornings or late afternoons provide softer lighting, ideal for photography. The golden hour before sunset can be particularly magical.
Drone photography is popular here, offering unique perspectives of the reef and coastline. Always be aware of local drone regulations.
The juice stand itself, with its vibrant fruit displays and unique pineapple presentation, makes for a fun and colorful photo opportunity.
The unique rock formations along the coast and the expansive reef itself are prime subjects. The historic sugar factory remnants also offer a unique backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. The Olowalu Juice Stand is a fun treat for kids, offering delicious pineapple juice. The convenience of roadside parking means less walking with tired little ones and all their gear. It's a great place for a relaxed beach day with opportunities for both play and wildlife spotting.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing a picnic lunch and plenty of water is highly recommended to keep costs down. The convenience of roadside parking also eliminates any parking fees. This makes Olowalu an excellent option for experiencing Maui's natural beauty without breaking the bank.
🐢 Snorkel Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Snorkeling Olowalu Reef: A Beginner's Paradise
While the reef is accessible and enjoyable, it's crucial to be mindful of the delicate ecosystem. Visitors are urged to wear water shoes to protect their feet from rocky areas and sea urchins, and to avoid touching the coral to prevent damage. Some visitors have noted that while visibility can be good, the abundance of fish might vary, suggesting that exploring different sections of the reef could yield more sightings. The shallow nature of the reef means it's best to visit during low tide for the most immersive experience.
For those looking to enhance their visit, consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the beach. The roadside parking offers convenience, allowing you to set up close to your chosen spot. While there are no showers, the presence of porta-potties provides basic amenities. The historical context of the old sugar factory adds another layer of interest to this beautiful coastal area.
The Olowalu Juice Stand: A Sweet Maui Stop
Travelers rave about the quality and taste of the pineapple juice, calling it a must-try when in the area. The stand offers a vibrant and cheerful atmosphere, making it a delightful quick stop. It's a simple pleasure that captures the essence of island life and the sweetness of fresh, local produce.
Beyond the iconic pineapple juice, the adjacent farmers market often provides an opportunity to sample other local treats and purchase fresh produce. It's a great way to support local vendors and experience a slice of authentic Maui culture.
Navigating Olowalu: Parking and Beach Access
While parking is ample, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Some online discussions mention signs about security cameras and no overnight parking, suggesting visitors should be mindful of their belongings and avoid leaving vehicles unattended for extended periods. The beach itself is a narrow stretch, characterized by a mix of sand and rocky areas, with trees providing some natural shade.
For those planning a visit, it's worth noting that Olowalu does not have dedicated facilities like sand showers or changing rooms. However, porta-potties are available for restroom needs. The ease of access and the direct proximity to the reef make Olowalu a favored spot for a quick and rewarding snorkeling adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit