Is it safe to snorkel in Maui sharks?

Avoid swimming, surfing, or snorkeling in murky waters or harbor entrances. Sharks are frequently spotted in these areas because they can sense their prey's electrical fields using their ampullae of Lorenzini organs. Sharks, in turn, can hunt for their prey while remaining invisible.



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Incidents of sharks biting people in Hawaiian waters are very rare, occurring on average at a rate of about three or four per year. Fatal shark bites are extremely rare, especially considering the number of people in Hawaii's waters. People who enter the water need to recognize that there are hidden dangers.

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Don't enter the water at dawn, dusk or night when sharks are most active and/or moving closer to shore to find food. Be aware that some shark species, like tiger sharks, are always active, no matter what time of day.

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Avoid the Ocean During Do not swim in the ocean in the dark, and if you are a visitor and arrive at the beach early, do not enter the water until a lifeguard is on duty (at a designated State Beach Park). If it's time for the lifeguards to leave for the day, it's best to err on the side of caution and exit the ocean.

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Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach located on Maui is known to have rough water and is reported to be one of a handful of red sand beaches around the world. Makena Beach in Maui has the nickname of “breakneck beach” because the surf breaks right on the shore, making it very dangerous to swim in.

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Don't enter the water at dawn, dusk or night when sharks are most active and/or moving closer to shore to find food.

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Yes, great white sharks have been spotted around Hawaii. They visit the area between January and April when the water temperature goes below 75 degrees Fahrenheit because great whites prefer living in colder waters.

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Choppy waters are not ideal for snorkeling, especially; if you're not a proficient swimmer. Wavy waters will bounce you around, and you'll experience diminished underwater visibility because of increased moving debris and sand. Waves also influence the ease and safety of getting in and out of the waters.

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Though it is unclear how many deaths were due to ROPE, according to the Department of Health, there were 204 snorkeling-related deaths from 2012 to 2021.

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After heavy rains, stay out of the ocean until the water clears. Don't swim in the mouths of rivers or streams or in any murky areas. Murky waters attract predators (think “shark”), and you don't want to be mistaken for a fish or turtle when they are looking for a snack. You'll find more Maui ocean safety tips here!

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What are the safest places to snorkel in Maui? If you're worried about currents, you'll find the safest snorkel spots in sheltered bays or shallow reefs like Napili Bay, Ahihi Cove, and Ulua beach.

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There's plenty of time to swim and jump from waterfall ledges into deep freshwater pools and learn about the island along the way. Fun, easy, and great for families, or if you are limited on time. Swim (optional) in pools under two waterfalls—10 and 20 feet high.

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