THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas wilderness guide
Marine Protected Area · HI

Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas

The Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas help safeguard the vibrant marine ecosystems around Maui, offering unique snorkeling and diving experiences.

Marine Protected Area52,000

Designation

Marine Protected Area

Total Wilderness Area

52,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas

The Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas help safeguard the vibrant marine ecosystems around Maui, offering unique snorkeling and diving experiences.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas are essential for preserving the diverse marine life and ecosystems surrounding the Hawaiian islands of Maui, Moloka‘i, and Lāna‘i. These areas play a critical role in conserving coral reefs, ensuring the health and resilience of these habitats. The Council works collaboratively with local communities to implement sustainable management practices. The marine protected areas support a variety of recreational activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, and whale watching. The vibrant coral reefs are home to an array of marine species, making them an exceptional destination for underwater photography and marine wildlife viewing. Historical tales of Polynesian navigation and the cultural significance of these marine environments add to their allure. This protected region is crucial for educational and research opportunities, focusing on coral reef health, ocean sustainability, and climate change impacts.

Field Guide · Marine Protected Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Hiking the Sliding Sands Trail, Maui★ 8.7⌖ 8 miHiking
30199-30185 Crater Rd

Hiking the Sliding Sands Trail, Maui

Explore the 11-mile Sliding Sands Trail in Maui's Haleakalā National Park. Known for its challenging terrain and striking volcanic views, this hard trail is a must for hikers and adventure seekers. Drive to the trailhead via Crater Road. Expect cooler temps and breathtaking vistas.

Descend the Downhill Bike Tour from Haleakalā, Maui★ 8.8⌖ 8 miDownhill Biking
Summit Area Trail

Descend the Downhill Bike Tour from Haleakalā, Maui

Experience the thrilling 23-mile downhill bike trip from the summit of Haleakalā in Maui. Starting from 10,023 feet, this moderate ride offers stunning views and passes through diverse landscapes. Popular year-round, this adventure blends excitement with cultural insights.

Downhill BikingView Details→
Volcanic Majesty: Haleakalā Crater★ 9.2⌖ 8 miHiking
Haleakalā

Volcanic Majesty: Haleakalā Crater

Explore the Haleakalā Crater in Hawaii's Haleakalā National Park. Enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing at this iconic volcanic landscape. Drive to the summit for breathtaking views. Highly visited year-round, be prepared for high elevation conditions.

Sandy Shores of Keawakapu Beach★ 8.7⌖ 10 miSnorkeling
Keawakapu Beach

Sandy Shores of Keawakapu Beach

Keawakapu Beach in Kihei, Maui, offers soft golden sands and clear waters perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. Enjoy peaceful ocean views, with sunrise and sunset strolls along the scenic shoreline. Accessible year-round, it's great for families looking for a relaxing day in paradise.

SnorkelingView Details→
Sandy Serenity at Ulua Beach Park★ 8.5⌖ 10 miSnorkeling
Ulua Beach Park

Sandy Serenity at Ulua Beach Park

Ulua Beach Park in Kihei, Hawaii, offers snorkeling and swimming with vibrant marine life. Enjoy walking along the scenic Wailea Coastal Walk. The beach is family-friendly with lifeguard presence and best visited in the morning for clear waters.

SnorkelingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Molokini Crater for snorkeling and diving.✦ Humpback whale migration viewing during the winter months.✦ Māʻalaea Harbor for peaceful boat tours and access to local marine life education.✦ The vibrant fish and richly colored coral gardens at Honolua Bay.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Snorkeling

Available in Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas
Park Recreation

Scuba Diving

Available in Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas
Park Recreation

Whale Watching

Available in Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas
Park Recreation

Educational Tours

Available in Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee; however, permits required for specific activities.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Hosmer Grove Campground

Located in Haleakalā National Park, offering proximity to forest trails and educational programs.

Wai‘ānapanapa State Park Campground

Famous for its black sand beaches and scenic coastal views. Great for multi-day excursions.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Maui
⌖ 0.64 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Maui, Hawaii

Tropical island paradise that offers diverse landscapes for land and water adventures.

Kula
⌖ 0.70 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kula, Hawaii

A serene upcountry escape offering unique volcanic landscapes, clear skies, and diverse adventure opportunities on the slopes of Haleakalā.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Makawao
⌖ 4.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Makawao, Hawaii

A charming plantation town with a mix of Hawaiian culture and rustic adventure opportunities on the slopes of Haleakalā.

Paʻaʻa
⌖ 7.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Paʻaʻa, Hawaii

A tranquil coastal community offering authentic Hawaiian outdoor experiences with access to beaches, calm bay waters, and lush nearby trails.

Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Paia
⌖ 7.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Paia, Hawaii

An eclectic surf town with easy access to some of Maui’s best waves, trails, and ocean activities, offering a relaxed yet active outdoor lifestyle.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Haiku
⌖ 7.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Haiku, Hawaii

A lush, rural community on Maui’s north shore offering a peaceful gateway to rainforests, waterfalls, and ocean adventures with a strong local vibe.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Maui Nui Marine Resources Council Protected Areas

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.