Mākena
"Turtle Town" is the colloquial name for the reef offshore of Maluaka Beach — the most reliable spot on Maui for in-water turtle encounters. Hawaiian green sea turtles congregate here to feed on reef algae; they are so accustomed to snorkelers that they often cruise within arm's reach (maintain 10 feet by law). Enter the water from the beach and swim southwest toward the rocky point where the reef begins. The coral itself is beautiful independent of the turtles. Significantly quieter than the Wailea resort beaches to the north.
Free, no reservation. Park at Maluaka Beach Park off Makena Road, south of Wailea — small lot, fills by 9am on weekends; arrive early. Snorkel gear rental from Boss Frog's or Snorkel Bob's in Kihei (15 min north). No facilities on-site.
Best on calm mornings before afternoon trade wind chop builds. Year-round snorkeling; clearest water in summer.