Clear Bottom Kayak and Snorkel Tour at Turtle Town, Makena

Paddle over Maui’s vibrant reefs in a clear-bottom kayak on this 3-hour guided tour at Turtle Town, Makena. For $125 per person, this small-group adventure offers a unique view of the underwater world, combining kayaking with snorkeling to see sea turtles, manta rays, and tropical fish. The tour departs daily at 7 am from Makena Landing Park, an ideal time for calm waters and great visibility. It’s suitable for ages 3 and above, with no prior kayaking or snorkeling experience needed.

The tour is operated by Ohana Ocean Adventures, a family and Coast Guard veteran-owned company that has been providing memorable Maui experiences since 2017. With consistent high ratings, it appeals to those looking for a safe, informative, and immersive marine adventure. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning marine life encounters, and the novelty of seeing through the clear kayaks. The main consideration for participation is a strict weight limit of 220 lbs for individual kayaks, though larger options are available.

Key Points

• 3-hour small-group kayak and snorkel tour at Turtle Town, Maui
• Starts at 7 am from Makena Landing Park, daily
• Includes snorkel gear, snacks, bottled water, and an experienced guide
• See sea turtles, manta rays, tropical fish, and possibly whales in winter
• Guides provide safety instructions, share marine life knowledge, and help with photos
• Limited to 10 participants, making for an intimate experience

The Tour Location: Makena Landing Park as the Point of Departure

The adventure kicks off at 5083 Makena Rd, Kihei, where the small fleet of clear kayaks awaits. The tour operates daily from 7 am to 10 am, chosen for the typically calm ocean conditions that make paddling and snorkeling easier and more enjoyable. Makena Landing Park is a popular launch spot, known for its proximity to Turtle Town, a renowned site for turtle sightings and vibrant reefs.

Travelers should plan to arrive a bit earlier for the safety briefing and to get fitted with equipment. The meet-up process is straightforward, and the tour is designed to accommodate families and first-time kayakers. The little group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace throughout the 3-hour experience.

What Makes the Clear Bottom Kayaks Unique?

The main feature of this tour is the clear bottom kayak, which allows you to see the marine environment beneath as you paddle over reefs. This visual connection with the underwater world makes the experience more immersive without requiring snorkel gear for every moment.

The transparent sides of the kayak also provide a panoramic view, so even non-snorkelers can enjoy the marine scenery. The glass bottom is praised in reviews for its cool effect, and guides often point out sea creatures right underneath, enhancing the sense of discovery.

Snorkeling at Turtle Town: Encountering Sea Turtles and Other Marine Life

After paddling over several reefs, the tour continues to snorkel at Turtle Town, a well-known habitat for sea turtles and tropical fish. Snorkeling equipment is included, and guides are attentive to safety and comfort, especially for first-timers.

The site’s shallow reefs make it easy to observe the marine creatures closely. Reviewers often highlight the abundance of turtles, with counts reaching 14 or more in some cases. Besides turtles, snorkelers commonly see urchins, starfish, and various fish, making it a lively underwater playground.

In winter, the chance to spot humpback whales enhances the experience, as Maui’s waters serve as a sanctuary for these majestic animals.

The Expertise and Approach of the Guides

Kyle and Michael are among the guides praised for their knowledgeability, friendliness, and safety-conscious approach. They take the time to explain marine life, share Hawaiian stories, and answer questions.

Reviews emphasize the guides’ patience, especially with larger groups or less experienced paddlers. They also assist with photos during snorkeling, helping guests capture memories of their marine encounters. The guides’ attention to safety is evident, with clear instructions and real-time communication about ocean conditions.

What to Expect from the Paddling Experience

The calm waters typical of the early morning make paddling smooth, even for beginners. The small group size (maximum 10) ensures that everyone can stay close to the guide and receive personalized tips.

While some reviews mention choppy waters if the weather is windy, guides are well-versed in navigating ocean conditions and adjusting their plans accordingly. The kayaks are designed for stability, and the view through the clear bottoms makes even a gentle paddle feel special.

Snacks, Water, and Additional Amenities

The tour includes pre-packaged snacks, with options for vegan and gluten-free diets. Guests are provided with bottled water, although bringing a reusable bottle is encouraged to reduce plastic waste.

Snorkeling equipment is available for use during the excursion, and guides often assist with gear adjustments to ensure comfort. Since lunch is not included, travelers should plan to eat before or after the activity.

Accessibility, Safety, and Participant Requirements

The tour is suitable for ages 3 and above, making it accessible for families. One key safety requirement is a strict individual weight limit of 220 lbs for kayaks, with larger options available for those over the limit. Participants are weighed at the meeting point; reporting incorrect weights may result in no refund if the limit is exceeded on the day.

The guides are attentive to medical conditions and pregnancies, requesting travelers to inform them beforehand. Most participants can take part, provided they are comfortable in water and able to paddle for the duration.

The Small-Group Advantage and Personalized Service

Limited to 10 guests per tour, this experience emphasizes personalized attention and safety. The small size fosters a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing guides to share marine insights, assist in snorkeling, and capture photos without the crowds common on larger tours.

This setup is especially appreciated by those who prefer a more intimate, less rushed experience in Maui’s waters.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Reservations can be made up to 24 hours in advance, with free cancellation available if canceled at least 24 hours before the start time. In case of poor weather, the tour may be canceled, with options for a reschedule or full refund.

The tour price of $125 is generally seen as good value, given the inclusion of snorkeling gear, snacks, bottled water, and a guidance experience that emphasizes safety and learning.

Clear Bottom Kayak and Snorkel Tour at Turtle Town, Makena: The Best of Maui’s Marine Encounters

This tour offers a unique combination of viewing Maui’s underwater ecosystem from a clear kayak, paired with close-up snorkeling with sea turtles. Its early morning schedule takes advantage of calm waters and optimal visibility, making it ideal for families, first-timers, and marine life enthusiasts.

The guides’ expertise and small-group setting create a safe and personalized experience, while the stunning marine life sightings keep the adventure exciting. The view through the glass bottom is a highlight, offering a different perspective than traditional snorkeling or boat tours.

While it does have a weight limit of 220 lbs for individual kayaks, larger options are available, ensuring safety for all participants. The easy paddling distance, combined with snorkeling at a prime site, makes this tour a well-rounded, enjoyable activity for anyone visiting Maui.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for ages 3 and above, making it perfect for families wanting to introduce kids to Maui’s marine environment.

Do I need prior kayaking or snorkeling experience?
No, no experience is necessary. The guides provide safety instructions and assistance, ensuring everyone feels comfortable.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring a reusable water bottle (though bottled water is provided), and wear swimwear under your clothes. No lunch is included, so plan accordingly.

Are the kayaks stable and safe?
Yes, the clear kayaks are designed for stability, and guides closely monitor ocean conditions to ensure safety.

Can I see whales during this tour?
Yes, in winter months, humpback whales may be visible from the tour area, adding a special bonus to the experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund. Tours may be canceled due to bad weather with rescheduling options or refunds provided.