South Maui - Ahihi Bay

Exploring Ahihi Bay

Ahihi Bay is part Ahihi-Kiana'u Reserve and one of the only parts of the reserve that is still open to the public. This a protected reserve and no fishing is allowed. The entire bay offers great snorkeling and kayaking, although it is recommended for excellent swimmers. If you are lucky you may spot bottle-nosed dolphins as this is a protected resting spot for them. There are plenty of fish, turtles, eagle rays and more.

Āhihi-Kīnaʻu Natural Area Reserve includes a coastal lava field and surrounding waters on the southwest coast of the island of Maui, Hawaii. The reserve includes several popular snorkeling/diving sites and many cultural and geologic sites as well as habitat for numerous rare and endangered species. The purpose and intent of the Reserve is to preserve and protect three unique components: the geologic setting of the most recent lava flow on Maui; unique assemblages of nearshore coral reef ecosystems; and the anchialine ponds found there.

Only small portion of the ‘Ahihi Bay area remains open to the public - Ahihi Cove, the Beach, the Dumps. While most of the reserve is closed, excellent snorkeling and Lava field hikes are still available in the La Perouse Bay area. Check back for the latest information on Maui Closures and reopenings on the home page. For horseback riding check out Makena Stables located on South Makena Rd.

The ocean in southern Maui can be very unpredictable and change form calm to deadly quickly. Make sure to get information from local dive shops before swimming or snorkeling. Most areas this far south are best for experienced swimmers / snorkelers.

• Directions (from Kihei)
  Head south on Piilani Hwy. Turn Right onto Wailea Ike Rd.. (Piilani Hwy Dead ends here). Turn left at Wailea Alanui which turns into Makena Aluni . keep left onto Makena Rd. Head south on Makena Rd. for about 1.9 miles. Look for Sign and parking on the right.
• Parking
  Large parking lot. Follow trail down to shore.
• Restrooms
  2 Porta-Potties. No showers and running water.
• Best For
  Great snorkeling for moderate to expert snorkelers and swimmers.

•  Click Here for Ahihi Bay Snorkel Information