Coral Gardens

Coral Gardens is Maui’s largest and healthiest reef, containing over 100 acres of some of Hawaii’s oldest reef structures. It’s known for its stunningly vibrant and healthy coral reef ecosystem, teeming with marine life. The underwater spectacle of colors has given Coral Gardens its befitting name. With giant coral head formations that have been found to date back over 500 years, Coral Gardens remains one of the best snorkeling destinations in all of Hawaii.

Located just south of Olowalu and Lahaina and fronting the stunning West Maui Mountains, Coral Gardens was formed when lava flows extended across the ocean floor nearly half a million years ago. These volcanic ‘fingers’ provide the perfect environment for marine life to thrive making it a top destination to snorkel. Maui Snorkeling offers an all-inclusive 5-Hour Morning Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour to Molokini Crater and a 2nd location (Coral Gardens or Turtle Town) which allows snorkelers to experience some of the best snorkeling Maui has to offer! The 3-Hour Maui Snorkel and Slide Tour frequently visits Coral Gardens as well!

Coral Gardens, in large part due to its shallow waters and protection from strong trade winds, is a great place for beginner and intermediate snorkelers, even when most other places on Maui are too windblown for snorkeling. Its waters are often calm and clear, offering excellent visibility for observing the marine biodiversity below the surface. 

Prepare yourself to spot a breathtaking array of tropical fish, many of which can only be found in Hawaii’s waters. Butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, surgeonfish, damselfish, and triggerfish are all represented; as is each color of the rainbow! In addition, Coral Gardens is home to larger marine species such as the world-famous Hawaiian green sea turtles along with eels, crabs, and even octopuses.

Perhaps the most impressive feature of Coral Gardens is its namesake coral. This is undoubtedly the crowning jewel. The reef is populated with a diverse array of both hard and soft corals, which display a mesmerizing variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, each contributing uniquely to the thriving underwater ecosystem. From brain corals to fan corals, the underwater landscape at Coral Gardens is a living kaleidoscope that never fails to impress visitors.

Hard corals, which include species like brain coral, staghorn coral, and pillar coral, form the primary building blocks of the reef. Their stony, calcium carbonate skeletons provide essential habitats and shelter for a multitude of marine creatures. Their surface patterns, often appearing as maze-like whorls and branches, resemble miniature cities under the sea, overflowing with life and activity.

Picture yourself snorkeling in this underwater spectacle—vibrant yellows, radiant oranges, tranquil blues, and lush purples shift and shimmer as you move. Sunlight filters through the water, illuminating the corals and casting an ethereal glow on the sea floor, thereby enhancing the visual magnificence. The dynamic panorama that Coral Gardens offer is not just beautiful, it’s alive. It’s a thriving, breathing testament to the beauty and resilience of our marine ecosystems. The underwater landscape at Coral Gardens, rich with coral diversity, is indeed a living tapestry that never ceases to impress visitors, consistently reinforcing its reputation as a world-class snorkeling and diving destination.

In addition to the coral and fish, Coral Gardens also features interesting underwater topography with several crevices, caves, and overhangs for snorkelers to explore. These unique formations provide homes and hiding spots for various sea creatures, adding an exciting element of discovery to the experience.

All of these factors combined—the diverse marine life, the vibrant corals, the intriguing topography, and the favorable conditions—make Coral Gardens a must-visit snorkeling destination in Maui. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced snorkeler, you’re sure to be captivated by the beauty and tranquility that await you beneath the surface at Coral Gardens.

5-Hour Maui Snorkeling Morning Tour

This tour operates from 7 AM to 12 PM, seven days a week, on our famous boat, The Lani Kai II. Included in this morning tour is our state-of-the-art snorkeling equipment, ensuring a premium snorkeling experience. For beginners or those needing a refresher, our friendly and professional staff provide onboard training, equipping you with the skills and confidence to fully enjoy your underwater exploration at Coral Gardens. To ensure everyone has an enjoyable and comfortable snorkeling experience, we also provide optical masks and flotation devices. 

We haven’t forgotten about the fun either! The Lani Kai II features a thrilling 25-foot water slide that will excite both the young and the young at heart. When you’re not snorkeling, you can ride the slide! After exploring the underwater world, you can refuel with our deli lunch, which is included in your tour. Plus, we keep you refreshed throughout the journey with a range of beverages, including coffee, tea, various juices, and soft drinks, all available at your disposal. Book Maui Snorkeling’s 5-Hour Morning Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour to Coral Gardens now!

3-Hour Maui Snorkeling Afternoon Tour

The 3-Hour Afternoon Tour to Coral Gardens runs daily from 1 PM to 4 PM aboard the renowned Lani Kai II. Each tour includes top-notch snorkeling gear to enhance your experience in the water. Whether you’re a beginner or just need a quick refresher, our friendly and expert staff are on hand to provide training right on the boat, helping you dive confidently into your snorkeling adventure at Coral Gardens. For added comfort and safety, optical masks and flotation devices are also provided.

The excitement doesn’t stop with snorkeling! The Lani Kai II boasts a thrilling 25-foot water slide, perfect for guests of all ages looking for fun above the water as well. When you’re not exploring the marine life, you can zip down the slide! Plus, enjoy a delicious deli lunch and stay hydrated with a selection of juices and soft drinks, all included in your tour.

Don’t miss out on the fun—book your spot on Maui Snorkeling’s 3-Hour Maui Snorkel and Slide Tour to Coral Gardens today!