La Perouse Bay

Named for the French explorer who mapped the southern cape of Maui, this bay — Keoneoio in Hawaiian — is the gateway to six miles of South Maui’s pristine coastline. The island’s most recent volcanic activity took place here, and the area includes historical remains of ancient Hawaiian fishing villages, heiau (Hawaiian temples), salt pans, unique anchialine pools, and native coastal plants. A pod of spinner dolphins frequent this bay, which is full of fish, green sea turtles, and other marine life. The snorkeling, swimming, fishing, and kayaking are exceptional here. You can even hike the historic, 12.5-mile Hoapili Trail, which traverses the entire area.