Things to do nearLa Perouse Bay
La Perouse Bay is a remote, lava-sculpted cove on Maui's southern coast, celebrated for its ancient lava fields, clear snorkeling waters, and Hawaiian green sea turtles.
La Perouse Bay sits at the southern tip of Maui's Makena coast, named for French explorer Jean-Francois de Galaup, comte de Laperouse, who anchored here in 1786 and became the first European to land on Maui. The surrounding landscape preserves the memory of that era and an even older one: the hardened lava fields you walk across are remnants of Haleakala's last eruption, believed to have occurred in the late 1700s.
The bay is a haven for marine life. Spinner dolphins gather in the calm morning waters, and Hawaiian green sea turtles are a common and unhurried presence along the shore. Snorkeling here reveals healthy coral and a variety of reef fish sheltered by the natural rock formations. Nearby, Turtle Town is another celebrated snorkeling destination worth pairing with a visit.
On land, the Hoapili Trail traces an ancient Hawaiian footpath across the lava fields, offering solitude and coastal views that stretch toward Molokini Crater on clear days. The area has no vendors or crowds, which makes it one of Maui's most authentic natural escapes and a compelling reason to venture beyond the resort corridor.
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Tips for visiting La Perouse Bay
Visit in the early morning, when dolphins are most active in the bay and the light is softer for photography.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen and sturdy water shoes, as the lava shoreline is sharp and uneven in places.
Bring more water than you think you need, as there are no facilities or shade structures at the bay.
Follow the Hoapili Trail along the coast to walk on centuries-old Hawaiian lava and take in sweeping ocean views.
Try snorkeling near the cove's rocky edges, where calm water and coral outcroppings shelter tropical fish year-round.
Top tours & experiences near La Perouse Bay
Snorkel Molokini Crater & Kanaio Sea Caves From Maui
Snorkel Molokini and cruise Kanaio sea caves on a 5.5-hour raft tour
Kanaio Coast Sea Caves & La Perouse Snorkel
Snorkel remote sea caves and reefs with chances to see dolphins and turtles on a 4-hour adventure.
5-Hour Private South Maui Snorkel Charter
Customize a 5-hour private raft charter to Molokini Crater or South Maui spots
Molokini Crater 3-Hour Private Charter
Private snorkeling at Molokini Crater and Turtle Town