South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel Experience

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $118.84 per person, the tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes for the shorter option or longer with lunch included.
• Location: The tour departs from 5180 Makena Alanui in Kihei, Maui, exploring scenic Makena Bay, Little Beach, and Big Beach.
• Activities: Expect kayaking in ocean water, with options for single or tandem kayaks, followed by snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, often with green sea turtles.
• Guides and Instruction: Professional guides lead each trip, providing beachside paddling instructions and sharing knowledge about marine life and the island.
• Family-Friendly & Skill Level: Suitable for all skill levels, with small groups around 10 paddlers, making it accessible for beginners.
• Highlights: Many reviews highlight close encounters with turtles, whale sightings, and laid-back guides who prioritize safety and fun.

Discover Maui’s South Shore with an Expert-Led Kayak and Snorkel Adventure

The South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel Experience in Maui offers a blend of scenic paddling and underwater exploration at Makena Bay. Priced at $118.84 per person, this tour usually books about 27 days in advance and provides an excellent opportunity to see marine life up close in a safe, family-friendly setting.

This 2.5-hour adventure is perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet engaging activity that combines kayaking along Maui’s southern coast with a snorkel in waters home to green sea turtles. For those wanting a more comprehensive experience, a 4.5-hour option includes lunch and extended snorkeling, making it a full-day aquatic outing.

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics in Kihei

The tour begins at 5180 Makena Alanui in Kihei, Maui. The meeting point is straightforward, and the activity concludes back at the same location, offering convenience for planning your day. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so participants should plan to arrive at the meeting spot on time.

What Makes This Tour Unique in Maui

This experience is distinguished by its small group size, capped at around 10 paddlers per guide, which ensures personalized attention and safety. The professional guides are praised for their extensive knowledge about marine life, including sea turtles and whale sightings, which are sometimes possible even in late April, as noted in reviews.

The tour route takes paddlers past Little Beach and Big Beach, offering stunning views of Maui’s coastline from the water. Guides provide beachside paddling instructions, making this tour accessible even for beginners or first-time kayakers.

The Kayaking and Snorkeling Experience

Participants choose between single or tandem kayaks as they paddle through Makena Bay. The paddling is described as leisurely, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and marine life in the crystal-clear waters.

After paddling, guests transition to snorkeling, where snorkel equipment is provided. The underwater landscape features colorful coral reefs, schools of fish, and sea turtles that often come close enough to touch. The 45-minute snorkeling session offers excellent opportunities for wildlife encounters, especially with green sea turtles, which are frequently sighted.

Guides and Their Expertise

The guides are frequently highlighted in reviews for their friendly demeanor and extensive marine knowledge. Guides like Rabbit, Maddie, Kyle, and Tyler receive praise for their patience, local insights, and ability to spot marine animals. Several reviews mention guides taking extra time with guests, especially those new to kayaking or snorkeling.

Particularly notable are guides who point out marine animals, share island facts, and help beginners stay safe. Whether it’s towing a snorkeler or helping guests feel comfortable, the guides consistently enhance the overall experience.

Marine Life Encounters and Wildlife Watching

The highlight for many is the close-up views of green sea turtles. Multiple reviews describe swimming “right next to turtles,” often 4-5 at a time. The waters are also home to colorful fish, and some trips report seeing small fish cleaning turtles.

Whale sightings are possible during late April, with paddlers sometimes hearing baby whale calls and witnessing a whale jumping 30 feet from the guide. These rare moments elevate the trip beyond just a water activity, turning it into a wildlife spectacle.

Paddling and Snorkeling in Scenic Locations

The paddling route along Maui’s southern coast is leisurely, with consistent praise for the scenic views of the coast and the peaceful waters of Makena Bay. The route past Big Beach and Little Beach offers stunning vistas, perfect for photos or simply relaxing while paddling.

The snorkel spot is selected for its vibrant coral reef and the abundance of marine creatures, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers. The guides’ commentary adds context about the marine ecosystem, enriching the underwater experience.

Family-Friendly and Suitable for All Skill Levels

This tour is described as suitable for all skill levels, from first-timers to experienced paddlers. The small group size ensures plenty of individual attention, and the guides provide paddling instructions at the beach before heading out.

The small group format also fosters a relaxed environment, making it easy for families or groups of friends to enjoy the day together. Several reviews emphasize the laid-back pace, highlighting that even those new to kayaking or snorkeling can participate comfortably.

Safety and Equipment Provided

Guests receive life jackets and quality late-model ocean touring kayaks. The guides focus heavily on beachside safety and paddling instruction, ensuring everyone understands how to paddle and snorkel confidently.

The snorkel gear is included, and guides often take their time with each group member to ensure clarity and comfort. This attention to safety and equipment quality contributes greatly to the positive reviews and overall satisfaction.

The Value of This Maui Adventure

While the tour costs around $118.84 per person, many reviewers consider it worth the price for the combination of wildlife encounters, scenic paddling, and expert guidance. The small group size and personalized attention add to the value.

The lunch option for the 4.5-hour tour** is a bonus, offering a chance to relax and refuel during the day’s activities. This tour balances adventure and relaxation, making it an appealing choice for a memorable Maui outing.

The Sum Up: An Accessible and Wildlife-Rich Maui Experience

The South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel Experience in Maui delivers a relaxed yet adventure-filled day on the water, with expert guides ensuring safety, fun, and wildlife sightings. The opportunity to swim with sea turtles and possibly spot whales makes this tour especially appealing to nature lovers.

The scenic route along Maui’s southern coast and small group format create a comfortable environment for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers. The included snorkeling gear and beachside instruction make this a practical choice for families or first-time snorkelers.

While it prices at $118.84, the quality of guidance, the marine encounters, and the scenic beauty justify the expense for most participants. This tour suits those eager to combine outdoor activity with wildlife viewing and scenic waterscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior kayaking or snorkeling experience required?
No, this tour is suitable for all skill levels. Guides provide paddling instructions, and the experience is designed to be beginner-friendly.

What wildlife might I see during this tour?
Expect to see green sea turtles regularly, with some trips also reporting whale sightings, and numerous fish and coral in the snorkeling area.

How long is the snorkeling session?
The snorkeling lasts approximately 45 minutes, giving ample time to see marine life in the coral reef.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
Lunch is included only on the 4.5-hour excursion, along with light refreshments on both options.

What should I bring?
Guests should arrive at the meeting point on time; no additional gear is needed as snorkeling equipment is provided. Sun protection and water are recommended.

Are hotel transfers included?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included in the tour price.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour operates in small groups, with a maximum of 10 paddlers per guide, ensuring personalized attention.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, participants are offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.