Maalaea Harbor Guide: Address, Parking, & Slip 64 Check‑In

Written by the Maui Snorkeling team, operating Molokini Crater, Turtle Town, and Coral Gardens tours out of Maʻalaea Harbor since 1985. Tours are led by USCG‑licensed captains aboard a USCG‑inspected passenger vessel. We spend more days in these waters than on land.

Last updated: February 2026

Aloha snorkelers! Here at Maui Snorkeling, we love showing the beauty of Maui’s underwater world. Today, we focus on the starting place for many snorkeling adventures: Maalaea Harbor!

Nestled in the central part of Maui, Maalaea Harbor is a busy, lively place. It may not be the largest port on the island, but it has a lot of charm and fun activities. Across the street, the Maui Ocean Center lets you see the marine life you’ll soon encounter. But the real fun begins when you set sail aboard one of our all-inclusive snorkeling tours!

Why Depart from Maalaea Harbor (Central Maui)

Maalaea Harbor is a great starting place for exploring Maui’s top snorkeling spots. If you want to snorkel, fish, or go on a whale-watching tour, this harbor has it all. These tours departing from here take you to amazing spots like Molokini Crater and Turtle Town. Additionally, our afternoon tour frequently ventures out to Coral Gardens.

Molokini Crater is a crescent-shaped volcano with clear water full of colorful fish and bright coral reefs. You might even see playful Hawaiian spinner dolphins. Turtle Town is home to Hawaiian green sea turtles, giving you the chance to swim beside these gentle giants in their natural home. Coral Gardens is a lively snorkeling spot known for its clear waters, various fish, and bright coral reefs.

Best Snorkel Sites Near Maalaea Harbor (Molokini, Turtle Town & Coral Gardens)

The real beauty of Maalaea Harbor is how close it is to Maui’s best snorkeling spots. With Maui Snorkeling, you can easily reach these amazing underwater places:

Molokini Crater Snorkel from Maalaea Harbor

Picture a crescent moon holding a calm blue lagoon. That’s Molokini Crater, a partly submerged volcanic cone. Its shape creates calm, clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling. Sunlight shines through the shallow waters, lighting up a colorful underwater world.

Prepare to be dazzled by:

• Colorful Fish: Moorish idols, butterflyfish, tangs, and even the occasional reef shark swim through the reefs.
• Bright Coral Reefs: Staghorn, brain, and finger coral create shelter for many creatures.
• Spinner Dolphins: These playful dolphins leap and spin out of the water. Spotting them on your Molokini trip is a bonus!

Turtle Town Snorkeling from Maalaea Harbor

As the name suggests, Turtle Town is home to Hawaiian green sea turtles. These ancient-looking turtles eat algae and give you a rare chance to swim beside them in their natural home. Remember, you must stay 10 feet away from them!

Turtle Town is not just about turtles; you’ll also see:

• A lively underwater world: Schools of bright fish swim through the coral, while eels peek out from their hiding places.
• Healthy coral reefs: The coral formations provide a safe home for many marine species.

Coral Gardens Snorkel Tour Departing Maalaea Harbor

Coral Gardens is a great spot for easy, calm snorkeling with bright coral reefs and colorful fish.

• Marine Life: Coral Gardens is known for its vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. Butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, and triggerfish are all common sightings. You might even spot eels, crabs, and octopus along the reef. Keep an eye out for the occasional Hawaiian green sea turtle!
• Snorkeling Conditions: The protected cove has calm and clear waters, ideal for beginner snorkelers and families with children. The shallow water lets sunlight shine through, illuminating the colorful coral formations below.

Directions to Maalaea Harbor

From Kīhei & Wailea

Head north toward Maalaea; typical drive 15–25 min. Set GPS to “101 Maalaea Boat Harbor Rd”.

From Lāhainā & Kaʻanapali

Follow Honoapiʻilani Hwy (30) south; allow extra a.m. time for traffic (20–45 min).

From Kahului Airport (OGG)

Take HI‑380 to HI‑30 toward Maalaea (20–30 min). Look for Maui Ocean Center across from the harbor.

Benefits of Leaving from Maalaea Harbor (Shorter Rides, Easy Access)

Leaving from Maalaea Harbor comes with a few big benefits:

• Easy Location: Maalaea Harbor sits in central Maui and is simple to reach from most resorts.
• Shorter Boat Rides: From Maalaea Harbor, it’s a quick trip to Molokini Crater and Turtle Town. This means you spend less time on the boat and more time snorkeling.
• Variety of Tours: Many snorkeling companies leave from Maalaea Harbor, with options for everyone—from beginner-friendly adventures to more adventurous.

Maui Snorkeling Tours from Maalaea Harbor

Maui Snorkeling Tours departing from Maalaea Harbor cater to all experience levels. Our friendly crew provides everything you need for a fun day: quality snorkeling gear, simple instructions, and safety tips.

We offer two tours, morning and afternoon, perfect for fitting into your Maui itinerary. Relax on our spacious decks, soak up the sun, and enjoy delicious meals and refreshing drinks as you cruise to the snorkel spots.

5‑Hour Molokini Morning Snorkel from Maalaea (Slip 64 Check‑In)

Ocean lovers, get ready for Molokini Snorkeling! Join our Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour for a half-day trip filled with clear water and colorful marine life. This exciting tour runs daily from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and takes you to two of Maui’s top snorkeling spots: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.

Whale Watching Bonus on Your Maalaea Harbor Snorkel Tour

As you travel between these snorkeling spots, watch for humpback whales, which visit during whale season from November through April. Witnessing these majestic creatures breaching and playing in the Hawaiian waters is an incredible bonus to your snorkeling adventure.

The Maui Snorkeling Morning Tour Advantage:

• Double the Adventure: Explore two of Maui’s top snorkeling destinations in a single, convenient tour.
• Prime Time Snorkeling: The morning departure allows you to experience the best water clarity and discover calm winds.
• Whale Watching Bonus: During whale season, you might encounter these magnificent creatures on the way to the snorkeling spots.
• Expertise You Can Trust: Our friendly crew ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for snorkelers of all levels.

The Maui Snorkeling Morning Tour is the perfect way to experience the magic of Maui’s underwater world.

3‑Hour Afternoon Snorkel from Maalaea (Coral Gardens)

Are you looking for a unique and less crowded snorkeling experience in Maui? Look no further than the Maui Snorkeling Afternoon Tour! This easy afternoon tour is a great way to escape the midday crowds. It lets you explore Maui’s underwater world comfortably.

The Beauty of the Afternoon:

Departing in the afternoon allows you to:

• Avoid peak crowds: Enjoy a more serene snorkeling experience compared to busy morning tours.
• Ideal sun conditions: The afternoon sun provides excellent underwater visibility for spotting all the vibrant marine life.

Where Will We Explore?

The Maui Snorkeling Afternoon Tour takes you to one incredible snorkeling destination, depending on weather conditions.

• Coral Gardens: Renowned for its diverse marine life and stunning coral formations, Coral Gardens is a snorkeler’s paradise. Here, you’ll encounter a dazzling array of colorful fish, playful turtles, and vibrant coral reefs.

Bonus Fun: Water Slide Adventure (on most afternoons)
To make the afternoon even more fun, most Maui Snorkeling Afternoon Tours include our waterslide. Take a refreshing plunge after exploring the underwater world, making your snorkeling adventure even more exciting.

Molokini Crater: A Rare Afternoon Encounter

Molokini Crater is often a morning spot due to the wind. However, some afternoons are calm enough for snorkeling at this famous place. If this happens, consider it a special bonus on your afternoon tour! Please keep in mind that there will be no sliding at Molokini Crater on our afternoon tours.

The Maui Snorkeling Afternoon Tour is for those who want a less crowded, more relaxed experience.

Things to Do at Maalaea Harbor: Restaurants & Shops

Maalaea Harbor offers something for everyone. Before or after your snorkeling adventure, browse the shops and restaurants lining the harbor for souvenirs and local treats.

Shops Near Maalaea Harbor (Maui Ocean Center Area)

Maalaea Harbor offers a vibrant atmosphere to explore before or after you slip on your fins. Here’s what awaits you on land:

Shopping for Memories: Lined with charming shops and boutiques, Maalaea Harbor is a treasure trove for souvenir hunters. Here, you can find Maui-made crafts, local clothing, and souvenirs to remember your snorkeling trip. You might even discover hidden gems like handcrafted jewelry or artwork inspired by Maui’s stunning natural beauty.

• Maui Island Treasure: This store offers home goods, including locally-made crafts and art.
• U’i Makana: Specializes in local Hawaiian arts and crafts, a perfect place to find unique souvenirs.

Top Picks: Where to Eat Near Maʻalaea Harbor

Need a quick bite before/after your tour? Here are the best walkable picks + a few close-by favorites.

For the full breakdown (best for / what to order / tips), see our Maʻalaea Harbor Restaurants guide.

Tip: Hours and menus can change seasonally—double‑check current hours before you go.

For more information visit Maui Harbor Shops!

Things to Do Near Ma‘alaea Harbor (Before & After Your Snorkel Trip)

If you’re looking for something to do near Ma‘alaea Harbor, you’ve got easy options—many within walking distance. These are the best quick picks to pair with a morning or afternoon snorkel departure.

Can you recommend some activities or attractions around Maalaea Harbor (Maui)?

The best walkable picks are Maui Ocean Center (easy, family‑friendly, weather‑proof) and the Maui Harbor Shops area for snacks and browsing.

For a quick drive, do a beach walk at Haycraft Beach Park, visit the Keālia Pond Coastal Boardwalk for birdwatching, or take kids to Maui Golf & Sports Park.

Walkable from Ma‘alaea Harbor

• Maui Ocean Center (Aquarium) — family‑friendly and weather‑proof
• Maui Harbor Shops — snacks, browsing, and quick stops
• Hula Cookies & Ice Cream — easy dessert stop

A short drive from the harbor

• Haycraft Beach Park — simple beach walk (great “reset” after the water)
• Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge (Coastal Boardwalk) — easy birdwatching + scenery
• Maui Golf & Sports Park — fun option for kids/groups

If You Have 60–90 Minutes Near Maalaea Harbor

Pick one: these are fast, low-stress options that fit between plans.

• Rain or shine: Maui Ocean Center (most weather‑proof)
• Nature + easy walk: Keālia Pond Coastal Boardwalk (easy + scenic)
• Free + low‑key: Haycraft Beach Park walk (simple, uncrowded)

Harbor tip: Even a short stroll along Ma‘alaea Harbor is worth it—boat watching, photos, and a relaxed “Maui harbor vibe” without committing to a long stop.

Not booked yet?
Our snorkel tour departs from Ma‘alaea Harbor (Slip 64) — see tour details & availability.

Final Thoughts

Mahalo for reading — you’re officially ready to navigate Maʻalaea Harbor like a local. 😊 It’s one of the easiest launch points on Maui: central location, straightforward parking, and a quick walk to the docks!

Quick recap before you head out:

• GPS: 101 Maalaea Boat Harbor Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793
• Parking: $1/hour (max 24h) — pay by QR code or pay station (no cash)
• Maui Snorkeling Tours Check-in: Slip 64 — arrive 20–30 minutes early (morning: 6:30 AM, afternoon: 12:30 PM)

After your snorkel, keep the good vibes going: grab a bite at the harbor, treat yourself to something sweet, or squeeze in a quick “bonus adventure” like Maui Ocean Center, Keālia Pond’s coastal boardwalk, or a beach walk at Haycraft.

P.S. If you love a little extra fun — yes, we’ve got a waterslide. 😄 See you at Slip 64!

Maalaea Harbor FAQ

Where is Maalaea Harbor?

The harbor is at 101 Maalaea Boat Harbor Road, Wailuku, HI 96793 (also written as Maʻalaea). Use this address in your GPS to navigate straight to the docks.

Where do Maui Snorkeling tours meet at the harbor?

We meet at Slip 64 at Maalaea Harbor. Slips on the ocean side are even-numbered; Slip 64 is near the end on that side. Look for the Maui Snorkeling sign.

What time is check-in?

Morning Molokini Tour: Check-in at 6:30 AM.
Afternoon Tour: Check-in at 12:30 PM.
Please arrive 20–30 minutes early to park and meet the crew. Check-in closes 10 minutes before departure.

How much is parking and how do I pay?

Public parking at Maalaea Harbor is $1 per hour with a 24-hour maximum. Pay using the QR code on official Secure Parking signs (credit/debit). Cash is not accepted. Pay immediately after you park.

Are there restrooms or showers at the harbor?

Yes. Maalaea Harbor has public restrooms and showers maintained by the state harbor authority.

Are the slips in numerical order?

No. The retail side uses odd-numbered slips and the ocean side uses even-numbered slips. Our boat departs from Slip 64 on the ocean side.

What time of day usually has the calmest ocean conditions?

Most days, mornings offer the calmest winds and clearest visibility—one reason our Molokini tour departs early. Afternoon trips typically visit beautiful near-shore sites when conditions are breezier.

Do I need to bring snorkel gear?

No—we provide sanitized snorkel sets. For safety, full-face masks aren’t allowed. Bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and a card/phone to pay for parking.

Can I park longer than 24 hours?

Public stalls are limited to 24 hours. Longer stays require the appropriate monthly/permit options managed by Secure Parking. Check posted signs or see the official parking page.

Any arrival tips?

Plan to reach the harbor early, pay for parking as soon as you park, and walk straight to Slip 64 for check-in.