Snorkel Ahihi Cove
This is a small cove located just north of La Perouse Bay. Not much of a sandy beach with mostly rock and lava. This very shallow cove so be careful entering the water (read instructions below). you will be amazed at the quanity of colorful tropical fish and healthy coral
Ahihi Cove Images
Directions: Head south on Piilani Hwy. Turn Right onto Wailea Ike Rd. (Piilani Hwy Dead ends here). Turn left at Wailea Alanui (1 mile). Continue Makena Alanui for 2.6 miles. Slight left onto Makena Rd.. head south for 1.8 miles. Ahihi Cove is on the right.
Parking: You will see parking for 4-5 cars on the left (across the street from the cove). If full continue south and look for space on the side of the road or park at Ahihi Bay.
Where to snorkel: Entry can be difficult in low tide, as it is very shallow. There is a concrete slab you can scoot down. As soon as you float out, you will be amazed at quantity of fish right at shore. Snorkel the whole area, being careful of the fragile coral. In high tide there is enough clearance to snorkel over the coral. Don't swim out of the bay as the currents can get pretty strong.
What to look for: We saw many varieties of fish. Wrasse, Tang, Moorish Idol, Convict, Lionfish, you name it it is here. This is too shallow for turtles . Some of the prettiest live coral on the island.
Other Info: This spot was given a 3 star (expert) rating because unless conditions are perfect, it is easy to damage the coral, as there is no where to safely stand. Ahihi Cove is best snorkeled early, as it is small and has become popular. There is no sandy beach (rocky) and is not good for swimming. this cove is not recommended for kids . I have had to tell children to stop standing on the coral (which will kill it and harm the child). This is however one of the best snorkeling spots on the island.
