We are beginner snorkelers. Where is the best place, company to go with, or should we go on our own? Has anyone snorkeled with contact lenses? And, lastly, what is a good reliable sunscreen? Thanks for any help!!
Helen

Oh Helen good question re: contact lenses. I would love to know the answer to that too because it's a drag to think I have to take them out and put them back in. Not a great place to do that when you're on the sand! Last time I snorkeled I didn't need corrective lenses.

We had never snorkeled before our trip to Maui last year. We went ocean rafting with Captain Steve the first day so we would not be alone the first time and could get a quick lesson. In retrospect, it probably wasn't necessary because it is so easy but the trip was great fun anyway. After that, we rented gear and went by ourselves except for a trip out to Molokini which was fun but not really worth it IMHO(saw better fish from shore). Our favorite place to snorkel was at Honolua Bay (if you have "Maui Revealed"-see pages 2-3)-morning seems to be best. We saw turtles and lots of great fish. I got contacts before our trip last year so I wouldn't have to hassle with a prescription mask-it was great-no problems at all. We used a waterproof SPF 30 sunscreen and kept a t-shirt on-you don't really feel the intensity of the sun while in the water and you get distracted by all the great fish and time can get away from you... Have fun!

I snorkle all the time with my contact lenses. If your concerned about it buy some disposables. Then if you lose them no big deal. But with the snorkling mask you shouldn't have any problems with contacts. Molokini was a great experience, boat ride and snorkling. Black Rock in front of the Sheraton is pretty good.

Whooohooo!!! Thanks for the contact lens info! It's great to know you don't have to take them out!

We went with Maui Princess to Molokini in Maui. The boat and the crew was great. We chose that company because they take around only 45 people at a time. Unlike some of the other companies that takes out more than 100 people. Although it was a little bit more expensive than the others ($65pp), it was well worth it.

The Kapalua Beach has excellent snorkeling. Next to the hotel. Tons of exotic fish, those really long skinny ones scare the heck out of me!

We really enjoyed snorkeling at Black Rock, behind the Sheraton. Lots more fish (saw a turtle too) than we saw at the Molokini crater (too many other boats). you can easily wear contacts when you snorkel, but be careful with sunscreen around your eyes (put it on when you get out) because it can very easily irritate your eyes.

I think Kapalua is bay far the best place to snorkel in Maui. All you do is walk in the water, look down and see TONS of fish! I liked Honlua also, but it is a little farther and more of a hassle to get to the beach. Also can get kind of rough.