The second-largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, Maui has something for everyone. From resort hotels to fabulous shopping and dining, you can find it on Maui. The island is also known for its natural beauty.
Here, you can explore tropical forests, black sand beaches, and even jump off a cliff into a sparkling blue lagoon. Something else that drives visitors to Maui is snorkeling. However, before embarking on a Maui snorkeling adventure, there are a few things you should know to help ensure your trip is one you never want to forget.
How to get ready for a Maui snorkeling excursion
Whether you’re a pro at snorkeling or trying it for the first time, the following tips can help you have a Maui snorkeling adventure you’ll be talking about for years.
Get used to your snorkeling gear
Let’s face it, snorkeling gear is weird; you’re wearing flippers or fins, as they’re sometimes called. Whatever you call them, flippers aren’t exactly comfortable to wear on land. Have you ever seen video footage of someone trying to walk in a pair of fins? If so, you have a pretty good idea of what you’re in for.
Then there’s the face mask; the mask isn’t exactly what you’d call comfortable, especially if it’s continually fogging up.
So, snorkeling gear can be challenging even if it’s not your first time putting it on. To help ensure you’re ready to snorkel in Maui’s waters, a good piece of advice is to try out your gear before heading out on your excursion.
Since you’re not going to be walking very far in a pair of flippers, don’t worry about trying to perfect your gait. Chances are, you’re never going to look graceful walking while wearing fins. If you’re taking a boat, don’t worry too much about mastering walking a couple of steps in fins. Chances are, you’re going to put your fins on while sitting at the edge of the boat’s ladder. Once your flippers are on, into the water you go.
Snorkeling from the beach is a little different. You will need to walk a few steps in the shallows before the water is deep enough for swimming. Practicing a little with your fins can help ensure you can make it into the water with little embarrassment.
Getting used to wearing a mask isn’t too difficult; the primary issue is usually trying to get a tight seal. The mask needs to seal tightly to your face, which prevents water from getting in and the lens from fogging. Dunking the mask in water before putting it on can help you get a nice, tight seal. Practice a few times before snorkeling so you’re ready for your adventure.
Pay attention to the local weather and currents
Maui’s waters are generally calm but storms can roll in. Currents can also change, sometimes with little warning. What starts as barely a ripple in the water can quickly turn into waves and strong undercurrents.
The local weather forecast is something you should always check before heading out on the water. You don’t want to be happily snorkeling when a thunderstorm comes up. Where you’re snorkeling can impact currents. Some of the island’s lagoons are protected from strong currents but this can quickly change once you’re in open water.
Warning flags on the beach can indicate the presence of strong currents. For example, a red flag typically means hazardous water conditions.
Paying attention to weather and water current conditions is a great way to stay while you’re in the water. If your snorkeling guide requests everyone to get out of the water, always listen. Even if the skies are clear and blue, there can still be danger.
Be respectful of the environment
Maui is home to several turtle populations. The most notable are the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. You can book snorkeling excursions that will take you to areas where the turtles frequently hang out—yes, the sea turtles have their favorite spots around Maui.
Being able to snorkel close to the sea turtles and observe them in their native habitat is a thrilling experience. Grab your waterproof camera and snap some pictures from a distance. You don’t want to disturb the sea turtles and never try to touch one. Fines for disturbing Hawaii’s Green Sea Turtles can be as high as $15,000. Penalties are even harsher if you harm a sea turtle.
The coral reefs around Maui are also protected. You can snorkel around the reefs but also be careful not to touch the coral with your fins. Even a slight brush can damage the coral, destroying the habitat native fish and other species depend on—and we should note that there can be steep fines for damaging Maui’s coral reefs.
Respecting the environment also means no littering. Fines can also be steep if you’re caught littering either on land or in the waters around Maui. Don’t take food and drink in the water while you’re snorkeling. Wait to indulge until you’re back on dry land.
Try not to smile
Okay, you’ve probably gone through life with someone telling you to smile at least once, but this time it’s different.
Don’t smile while you’re wearing a snorkeling mask, which may seem pretty easy when thinking about it—but wait until you’re actually in the water. From the colorful fish to sea turtles and maybe even dolphins, there’s plenty to get excited about in Maui’s waters. However, wait to grin until you’re out of the water.
This is because smiling with your mask on can break the seal, and now, you’re dealing with water in your mask. Even though it’s an easy fix to go back up to the surface and get it off, it’s still an avoidable hassle.
Always rent your gear from a reputable source
You’re not going to have a problem finding snorkeling gear for rent in Maui. However, don’t go for a kiosk on the beach.
There’s a chance the beach rental has quality snorkeling gear, but you’re taking a chance. A better option is to rent your gear from the outfit that’s taking you on your snorkeling adventure.
The article Preparing for a Maui snorkeling adventure? Getting the most out of your excursion first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.