Kayak & Turtle Reef Discovery
Duration
~2.5–3 hours
Distance
~1.5–2 Miles
Included
Kayak, Snorkel Gear, Snacks & Guide
The Experience
Most Maui snorkel tours load fifty people onto a catamaran and motor them out to a reef. This one puts you in the water — actively, personally, and in a group of no more than ten. Your adventure begins at Makena Landing on South Maui's coast, one of the most pristine and marine-rich stretches of coastline on the entire island. After a thorough safety briefing and gear fitting, your guide leads the group on a scenic paddle along the Makena shoreline — roughly 1.5 to 2 miles of dramatic volcanic coastline, clear turquoise water, and some of the best underwater visibility in Hawaiʻi. The destination is Turtle Town — a stretch of reef in Makena Bay that is home to one of the highest concentrations of Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) anywhere in the state. These gentle, ancient creatures are a deeply revered symbol in Hawaiian culture, representing good luck, endurance, and the spirit of the ocean. On this tour, sightings are not a hope — they're a near-certainty. Your guide knows exactly where to find them, and the small group format means you get real time with the turtles rather than a glimpse from the back of a crowded boat. The snorkel stop includes one long reef session or two shorter ones depending on conditions, with your guide pointing out marine life throughout: eagle rays gliding along the bottom, octopus tucked into coral heads, eels peeking from the reef, and on lucky days, Hawaiian monk seals or spinner dolphins cruising through. Snacks and beverages are provided before the return paddle to shore. No kayaking or snorkeling experience required — beginners are always welcome, and South Pacific Kayaks' guides are exceptionally skilled at making first-timers feel confident in the water.
Pricing
All rates are per hour. Military and Kama'āina (Hawaii resident) discounts available with valid ID.
| Bus / Option | Standard Rate | Military / Kama'āina |
|---|---|---|
| Group (per person) | $109/hr | — |
| Kids (5–8, per person) | $109/hr | — |
| Private Tour | $719/hr | — |
* Valid military ID or Hawaii driver's license required for discounted rates. Rates subject to change — contact your Aloha Ambassador for a personalised quote.
Unforgettable Moments
Swim with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
Snorkel face-to-face with honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) at Turtle Town — one of Maui's richest sea turtle habitats, where sightings occur on nearly every single trip
Paddle Makena's Coastline
Kayak 1.5 to 2 miles along South Maui's dramatic volcanic coastline — crystal-clear water, lava shelves, and views of the uninhabited island of Kahoʻolawe on the horizon
Turtle Town Reef Exploration
Snorkel a thriving reef teeming with eagle rays, octopus, eels, tropical fish, and the occasional Hawaiian monk seal — one of the most biodiverse snorkel spots in all of South Maui
Small Group, Big Experience
With a maximum of 10 guests and expert local guides, this is as personal as ocean adventures get — no crowds, no rushing, just you and the reef at your own pace
⚠️ Safety Notes
- ✓Basic swimming ability is recommended — life jackets are provided for all guests throughout the tour
- ✓No prior kayaking or snorkeling experience is required — full instruction given before launch
- ✓Ocean conditions may affect the route or snorkel stop locations — guide decisions are final for safety
- ✓You will get completely wet — dress appropriately in a swimsuit, board shorts, or rash guard
- ✓Reef-safe sunscreen only — protect Makena Bay's coral ecosystem
- ✓Do not touch, chase, or ride sea turtles — observe from a respectful distance
- ✓Early morning departure (7:15 AM) typically offers the calmest ocean conditions
- ✓Wildlife sightings are highly likely but cannot be 100% guaranteed — they are wild animals
🌿 Environment & Values
- ✓Makena Bay is one of Maui's most pristine and ecologically sensitive coastal areas — guests briefed on responsible marine interaction throughout
- ✓Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) are a protected species — South Pacific Kayaks enforces strict no-touch, no-chase policies
- ✓Reef-safe sunscreen policy strictly enforced to protect Makena's coral reef ecosystem
- ✓Small groups of up to 10 guests ensure minimal environmental impact on the reef and marine life
- ✓Guided kayak access means no motorised vessel impact on the nearshore reef
- ✓Guides educate guests on the cultural significance of honu in Hawaiian tradition and the importance of marine conservation
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting at
Per Person
$109 each
Child (5–8)
$109 each
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