Maui: Turtle Town Kayak and Snorkel Tour

Discover Maui’s Turtle Town, a renowned marine sanctuary, through a guided kayak and snorkel tour that lasts about 3 hours. Priced at $120 per person, this tour is perfect for those seeking an accessible and family-friendly way to encounter Hawaiian Green Sea turtles and vibrant tropical fish. The tour departs from Makena Landing and offers a relaxing, low-stress experience with all necessary gear provided.

From early morning excursions at 7:15 AM to later options, the tour caters to beginners and families with children 5 and up. It features guides renowned for their knowledge, a small group limited to 10 participants, and includes snacks and drinks. During whale season, from late December through mid-April, you might even get a chance to observe humpback whales, adding an extra highlight to the experience.

While the tour does not include transportation, parking options are conveniently available at Makena Landing and Maluaka Beach Parking Lot North. This tour stands out for its casual, approachable pace and the opportunity to see marine wildlife in their natural habitat with helpful guides ensuring safety and fun.

Key Points

• Guided 3-hour kayak and snorkel tour at Turtle Town on Maui
• All equipment, including kayaking gear, snorkel gear, life jackets, and safety orientation included
• Snacks and beverages provided during the activity
• Tour departs from Makena Landing, with parking at Makena Landing or Maluaka Beach
• Whale watching included in tours from December to April
• Suitable for children aged 5 and up, but not recommended for those prone to seasickness

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The Unique Location of Turtle Town on Maui

Turtle Town, located in Makena Bay, is celebrated as one of Maui’s top snorkeling and kayaking destinations. Its reputation stems from the abundance of Hawaiian Green Sea turtles that frequent the area, making it a prime spot to observe these gentle creatures up close. The calm waters during the tour’s early morning options enhance the experience, especially for beginners or those sensitive to sea conditions.

Makena Bay offers a vibrant setting filled with coral reefs and tropical fish, creating a lively underwater scene for snorkelers. The area’s natural beauty attracts families, first-time snorkelers, and anyone eager for an easy, enjoyable ocean adventure. The tour makes it simple to access this marine haven, with easy check-in and clear instructions from guides.

How the Tour Navigates Makena Bay and Turtle Encounters

The kayaking route covers approximately 1.5 miles through Makena Bay, leading you toward Turtle Town. This journey provides scenic views of the coastline and the chance to spot marine wildlife as you paddle through the Hawaiian surf. The guides are experienced in locating sea turtles and other sea life, making each trip a rewarding wildlife encounter.

Once at the snorkel spots around the bay, participants can expect to see flourishing marine life, including turtles and colorful fish around the coral reefs. Snorkeling durations allow ample time to observe underwater life comfortably, with guides also pointing out interesting features and marine species. The safety orientation ensures everyone remains confident, even newcomers.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere and Ease of Participation

This tour is designed to be simple and stress-free, making it ideal for families with children 5 and older. The guides demonstrate kayaking and snorkeling techniques, offering encouragement and tips along the way. All gear is provided, and dry bags keep belongings safe and dry during water activities.

The small group size of up to 10 participants ensures personalized attention and a relaxed environment. The activity requires no prior experience — just a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen—and guides are attentive to individual needs, including helping those who are new to snorkeling or kayaking.

Timing and the Benefits of the Early Morning Tour

The 7:15 AM departure is especially recommended for calm waters and better visibility underwater. During this time, the ocean tends to be calmer, making paddling easier and snorkeling more enjoyable. The early start also means fewer crowds, providing a more intimate wildlife encounter.

Some guides go beyond standard timings, offering longer tours in the morning to maximize wildlife sightings, including whale activity during season. Check-in occurs 15 minutes prior to departure, with parking at nearby lots readily accessible for an on-time start.

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The Guide’s Role in Enhancing the Experience

The guides are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attention to safety. Guides like Tyler, Jakeb, Rabbit, and others have received glowing reviews for their ability to make everyone feel comfortable and engaged. Their expertise ensures that participants are aware of marine life behaviors, cultural insights, and safety protocols.

Guides actively seek out sea turtles and whale sightings, often going out of their way to position the group for optimal viewing. Their enthusiasm and humor help create a casual, enjoyable atmosphere that keeps participants relaxed and excited throughout the tour.

The Presence of Whales During Season

Between late December and mid-April, the tour might include whale watching as part of the experience. Guides often paddle out to spots where humpback whales are active, and some tours extend their time to float alongside these majestic creatures. Many reviews highlight whale songs, breaching whales, and close-up sightings, making this season a particularly special time for marine encounters.

This added element is a bonus that elevates the tour beyond snorkeling and kayaking, offering a rare chance to observe whales in their natural habitat while maintaining the tour’s relaxed pace.

Parking and Meeting Location Details

The tour departs from Makena Landing, which is easy to find using Google or Apple Maps by searching for that name. Parking is available right at Makena Landing, with ocean views on the right side of the lot. Participants walk over a small hill to see the kayaks.

Alternatively, parking at Maluaka Beach Parking Lot North is available, with a short walk back toward Honoiki to reach South Pacific Kayaks. The proximity of these parking options means minimal hassle in preparing for your Ocean adventure.

Equipment and Safety Measures Provided

All necessary kayaking gear and snorkel gear are included in the tour price. Participants receive a safety orientation, and life jackets are provided for everyone. The dry bags allow safe storage of personal belongings, and the guides ensure everyone understands basic safety procedures before entering the water.

This focus on safety and convenience helps make the activity accessible to those without prior experience and adds peace of mind for families bringing children or first-timers.

The Value of Snacks and Beverages Included

The tour includes light snacks and drinks, offering a break during the activity to rehydrate and refuel. This thoughtful inclusion ensures participants stay comfortable, especially during warm weather or longer trips. The availability of refreshments adds to the relaxed, family-friendly vibe of the tour.

Flexibility with Cancellation and Payment

Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in uncertain travel plans. The reserve now, pay later option allows booking without immediate payment, giving added convenience for planning your Maui vacation.

Maui: Turtle Town Kayak and Snorkel Tour — Final Thoughts

This tour offers an inviting, straightforward way to experience Maui’s marine wildlife in Makena Bay. With expert guides, all gear, and snacks included, the activity provides great value for $120. Its small group format and family-friendly design make it accessible and enjoyable for beginners and children over 5 years old.

The opportunity to see sea turtles, colorful fish, and during season, whales, makes this tour a memorable highlight. The calm waters of the early morning maximize comfort and wildlife sightings, so booking the 7:15 AM slot is highly recommended.

While transportation is not included, the well-marked meeting point and parking options simplify logistics. This easy, engaging ocean adventure suits anyone wanting a relaxed, educational, and wildlife-rich experience of Maui’s coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is designed for children 5 and up, provided they are comfortable in water and able to kayak or snorkel with supervision.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. All other gear and equipment are provided.

Can I see whales during this tour?
Yes, whale season from late December to mid-April often includes whale sightings and sounds during the paddle.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 3 hours, with options for early morning departures.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The tour departs from Makena Landing; search for it on Google Maps or Apple Maps for directions.

Is the water activity beginner-friendly?
Absolutely, guides provide safety orientation and assistance, making it ideal for those new to kayaking and snorkeling.

What if I get seasick?
The early morning tours tend to have calmer waters, which can help minimize seasickness. Guides are attentive to comfort.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, light snacks and beverages are provided during the tour.

What happens during whale season?
Guides may extend the paddle to include whale watching, offering opportunities to see humpbacks and hear their songs.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, participants need to arrange their own transportation; parking is available at the meeting location.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby