Kihei, Hawaii

Located in Wailuku, Hawai‘i, the Maui Ocean Center offers an immersive experience into the rich marine life of Hawai‘i’s waters. Established in 1998, this aquarium is distinguished by its extensive collection of live Pacific corals and native marine species, cared for by a team of expert marine biologists and divers. The center emphasizes conservation and education, showcasing Hawai‘i’s unique ocean ecosystems through thoughtfully designed exhibits and interactive programs. Visitors can explore living coral reefs, observe native fish, sea turtles, and sharks, and engage with cultural narratives that highlight the deep connection between the ocean and Hawaiian heritage. The Maui Ocean Center provides a variety of experiences tailored to families, educators, and marine enthusiasts alike. Admission includes access to all exhibits and the innovative Humpbacks of Hawai‘i 3D Sphere Experience, which offers a multi-sensory encounter with humpback whales. Additional offerings include guided tours such as the Behind the Scenes Tour, revealing coral propagation and animal care processes, and the Hawaiian Culture & Plant Tour, which explores native flora and cultural traditions. The facility is family-friendly with accessible pathways and daily interpretive talks led by marine naturalists, making it an educational and engaging destination for visitors of all ages seeking to deepen their understanding of Hawai‘i’s marine environment.

Located in Lahaina, Hawaii, this family-owned sailing company has been providing exceptional ocean experiences around Maui for over five decades. With roots dating back to the 1920s and a legacy shaped by a pivotal shipwreck in 1969, the company operates a fleet of first-class sailing vessels departing from Maalaea Harbor and Kaanapali Beach. Renowned for their knowledgeable and attentive crew, they offer a unique blend of comfort, safety, and personalized service that distinguishes them from other tour operators. Their commitment to quality is evident in their well-maintained boats, premium equipment, and carefully curated itineraries that explore some of Maui’s most stunning marine environments. The company specializes in a variety of tours including snorkeling excursions to Molokini Crater, West Maui reefs, and the pristine waters of Lana’i, as well as sunset sails, dinner cruises, whale watching, and SNUBA adventures. Guests can expect a full-day experience featuring gourmet meals such as plantation-style BBQ lunches and continental breakfasts with signature cinnamon rolls, alongside premium beverage options for adults. The tours cater to a wide range of customers, from families and casual snorkelers to more adventurous travelers seeking underwater exploration. Each outing includes snorkel instruction, reef-safe sunscreen, and access to protected marine preserves, ensuring an immersive and environmentally conscious experience on the waters of Maui.

Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows is a beachfront resort situated on the renowned Ka’anapali Beach in West Maui, Hawaii. Spanning 27 tropical acres, the property features a mix of tower rooms, suites, and distinctive bungalow accommodations that offer direct oceanfront access and scenic views. With over 450 rooms and suites, including private bungalows and spacious oceanfront suites, the resort combines traditional Hawaiian charm with modern amenities such as air conditioning, electronic safes, and in-room Kona coffee. Its location within the Ka’anapali Resort area provides guests with convenient access to local attractions and the natural beauty of Maui’s coastline. The resort offers a variety of services and activities tailored to both leisure and active travelers. Guests can enjoy cultural experiences like hula and ukulele lessons, participate in wellness and fitness classes, or relax at the full-service oceanfront spa offering Hawaiian-inspired treatments. Dining options include oceanfront and poolside restaurants serving island-inspired cuisine and handcrafted cocktails. The property also features a tennis ranch with multiple courts, a pool with recreational games, and an award-winning oceanfront luau showcasing traditional Hawaiian entertainment. Suitable for families, couples, and groups, the resort provides a comprehensive Maui experience with amenities designed to enhance relaxation, cultural immersion, and outdoor enjoyment.

PacWhale Eco-Adventures, located in Maui, Hawaii, offers marine ecotours grounded in nearly four decades of research and conservation efforts. As a social enterprise owned by the nonprofit Pacific Whale Foundation, the company is dedicated to protecting Hawaiʻi’s humpback whales and promoting ocean education. Each excursion is guided by Certified Marine Naturalists, ensuring an informative and engaging experience that combines scientific knowledge with adventure. This commitment to education and conservation distinguishes the company as one of Maui’s most awarded ecotour operators. The business provides a variety of activities including whale watching cruises, snorkeling tours, dolphin cruises, sunset sails, holiday cruises, and private charters. These offerings cater to a wide range of customers, from families and casual tourists to marine enthusiasts seeking an immersive ocean experience. Guests benefit from expert guidance, quality equipment, and access to some of the best marine environments around Maui. The tours emphasize environmental stewardship while delivering memorable encounters with marine wildlife in their natural habitat.

Located in Ma’alaea Harbor, Wailuku, Hawaii, this snorkeling charter company offers an intimate and personalized experience aboard the Maui Magic, a fast power catamaran designed for adventure and access to multiple prime snorkeling sites. With over 30 years of industry experience through its parent company, Maui Classic Charters, it stands out by limiting passenger numbers to ensure a more exclusive and attentive tour. The smaller size and speed of the vessel allow it to reach a variety of renowned locations such as Molokini Crater, Turtle Town, and Coral Gardens, providing guests with opportunities to encounter dolphins, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and seasonal humpback whales. The crew’s expertise and dedication to customer service enhance the overall experience, combining safety, education, and Hawaiian cultural elements like traditional chants and conch shell ceremonies. The company offers daily morning snorkel tours that include visits to two distinct underwater sites, featuring a free tropical breakfast, lunch, and fresh baked cookies, all served by a friendly and knowledgeable crew. Private afternoon charters are also available, catering to families and groups seeking a personalized setting with options for whale watching during the season. These tours are designed for guests aged five and older and emphasize a relaxed yet engaging atmosphere, with amenities such as a water slide on board. Weather permitting, the excursions provide a memorable exploration of Maui’s marine life and coastline, making them ideal for travelers looking to combine adventure with comfort and cultural enrichment.

Extended Horizons is a premier scuba diving operation located in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii, with over 40 years of experience exploring the waters of Maui and Lana‘i. Renowned for its small group sizes, the company maintains a maximum diver-to-guide ratio of 4:1, ensuring personalized attention and a safe, educational experience. The dive shop is distinguished by its team of nationally certified instructors and naturalists who provide expert guidance and interpretive insights into marine life and animal behaviors. Committed to environmental stewardship, Extended Horizons operates with eco-friendly practices, including a 100% biodiesel-powered boat and a solar-powered shop, reflecting its dedication to ocean conservation. The business offers a comprehensive range of scuba diving services, including guided shore dives, night dives, wreck dives, and eco-dives along the coastlines of Maui and Lana‘i. It caters to divers of all skill levels, from beginners seeking certification courses to experienced divers looking to explore renowned sites such as Lanai Cathedrals and Black Rock. Extended Horizons emphasizes slow-paced, immersive dives that maximize bottom time and marine observation. Their educational programs include PADI and SDI certification courses, with instructors who provide thorough, personalized training. The experience is enhanced by knowledgeable guides who share their passion for the ocean, making each dive both informative and memorable.

Maui Adventure Tours Kayak Company, located in Maui, Hawaii, offers expertly guided kayaking, snorkeling, and whale watching tours that showcase the island’s vibrant marine ecosystem. Led by Roger Poel, a seasoned guide with over 21 years of experience and multiple certifications including Hawaii Marine Naturalist and PADI Pro Dive Master, the company provides safe and educational ocean adventures. What sets this business apart is its commitment to personalized experiences, allowing guests of all skill levels to explore pristine locations such as Olowalu Reef and the National Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary. The tours emphasize environmental education and conservation, enhancing the natural beauty and wildlife encounters that define each journey. The company’s offerings include kayaking and snorkeling excursions along the scenic shores of West Maui, particularly at Olowalu Beach, where participants can swim alongside giant sea turtles and colorful tropical fish. Their whale watching tours provide intimate kayak-based encounters with humpback whales during the peak season from December to mid-April. Suitable for families, beginners, and seasoned adventurers, the tours feature premium equipment, safety briefings, and knowledgeable guides who share insights on marine life and Hawaiian culture. Guests can expect a blend of adventure and relaxation, with opportunities to paddle through crystal-clear waters, snorkel vibrant reefs, and witness majestic wildlife in their natural habitat.

Located in Maalaea Harbor, Wailuku, Hawaii, this company specializes in marine adventure cruises around the scenic waters of Maui. With experienced captains and a focus on quick access to prime wildlife viewing areas, it offers a unique opportunity to observe humpback whales, dolphins, and other marine life in their natural habitat. The business is known for providing every guest with a front-row seat, ensuring an immersive experience. Although their original vessels were lost in the Lahaina fires, they are actively acquiring new boats to continue delivering exceptional tours. The company offers a variety of excursions including whale watching during the season, snorkeling along the West Maui coastline, and trips to the nearby island of Lana‘i to swim with dolphins and explore vibrant coral reefs. Each tour is designed for physically fit outdoor enthusiasts aged five and older, with all snorkel gear and flotation devices provided. Captains select snorkel sites based on safety and visibility, and trips include amenities such as on-board restrooms and fresh rinse showers. Private charters are also available, offering a personalized boating experience without age restrictions.

Located in Lahaina, Hawaii, this family-owned sailing company has been providing exceptional ocean adventures around Maui for over five decades. Established in 1969, the business combines a rich maritime legacy with a commitment to quality and safety, operating a fleet of first-class sailing vessels. What sets it apart is its unique beach-loading process at world-famous Ka’anapali Beach, offering guests direct access to some of the best snorkeling spots in West Maui, including Honolua Bay and Olowalu reef. The company’s experienced crew ensures personalized attention, making each excursion both safe and memorable. The company offers a diverse range of tours including snorkeling, sunset sails, dinner cruises, whale watching, and SNUBA experiences, catering to families, couples, and adventure seekers. Guests can enjoy carefully curated itineraries featuring continental breakfasts, gourmet lunches, and premium beverages on select tours. Snorkeling equipment and flotation devices are provided, along with reef-safe sunscreen and fresh water showers. With departures from multiple locations such as Maalaea, Lahaina, and Ka’anapali, the tours highlight Maui’s marine life, scenic coastlines, and seasonal whale sightings, delivering an immersive and comfortable ocean experience.

Aloha Maui Diving is a scuba diving company based in Lahaina, Hawaii, specializing in eco-friendly underwater experiences along Maui’s West side. Established in 2020 and deeply rooted in community recovery efforts following the 2023 wildfires, the business combines professional expertise with a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. Operating from the historic Westside Air building, the team offers custom-fitted gear, cylinder fills, and reliable equipment rentals, ensuring safety and comfort for divers of all levels. Their unique approach emphasizes sustainable practices and active support for marine conservation organizations, making each dive both memorable and responsible. The company provides a range of services including introductory dives, certification courses through PADI, SSI, and Avelo, as well as guided shore dives in locations such as Kapalua, Kihei, and Kahului. Suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike, these adventures showcase Maui’s vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including turtles and reef fish. Beyond recreational diving, Aloha Maui Diving fosters community engagement by donating experiences and supporting local reforestation and cleanup initiatives. Guests can expect knowledgeable instructors, personalized attention, and an immersive experience that promotes both exploration and ocean preservation.

Located in Lahaina, Maui Ocean Sports offers premier kayaking and snorkeling adventures tailored to small groups seeking personalized service. With over five years of experience guiding eco-friendly tours, the company emphasizes respect for the ocean and attention to detail, ensuring safe and memorable outings. Although not the largest or oldest outfitter in Hawaii, it distinguishes itself through professionalism and a commitment to quality. Guests can expect expert guidance in exploring calm, shallow waters rich with coral reefs and tropical marine life. The business provides a variety of tours and lessons, including popular excursions such as the Lahaina kayak tour and the Maui whale watch combined with reef snorkeling. These trips typically last around three hours and accommodate up to ten participants, offering opportunities to see sea turtles, humpback whales, and monk seals. While kayak rentals are currently unavailable, the guided tours focus on interactive, educational experiences suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned paddlers. Customers consistently praise the friendly service and the chance to connect closely with Maui’s vibrant underwater ecosystem.

Ocean Project Maui, located on the island of Maui, Hawaii, is a marine research and education organization with over 40 years of experience in promoting marine awareness and safety. Established in 1979, the company specializes in private, custom-designed snorkel tours led by a team of dedicated marine biologists and naturalists. These experts ensure a safe, educational, and personalized experience for participants of all ages and skill levels. What sets this organization apart is its commitment to small group sizes, thorough safety orientations, and a deep focus on marine education and research, making each tour both informative and memorable. The company offers shore-based private snorkel tours tailored to families and groups, providing high-quality snorkel equipment, wetsuits, and safety gear suitable for all ages, including specialized equipment for children. Each tour begins with a safety briefing on the beach and includes unique viewing tools such as boogie boards with viewer windows and handheld viewer cones for those less comfortable with traditional snorkel masks. In addition to exploring the vibrant underwater world of Hawaiian waters, guests receive professional images capturing their experience both above and below water. These tours emphasize safety, education, and lasting memories, appealing to those seeking a personalized and enriching marine adventure on Maui.