Tours/Maui/Maui: Turtle Reef Kayak Tour of Makena
Viator · group up to 10 pax

Maui: Turtle Reef Kayak Tour of Makena

4.8(335)Maui1 hour
VIATOR4.7(251)TRIPADVISOR4.8(84)

Description

This fun and educational Maui kayaking tour starts at Makena Landing and paddles around the bay area. The calm, clear ocean is perfect for various water activities including swimming, snorkeling and animal watching. Float next to peaceful turtles and admire the stunning tropical underwater world. Leave all your worries behind and join this unique Hawaiian experience.

Tour Options

7:15am Departure
  • Guests ages 5+ 7:15am Departure
10:30am Departure
  • Guests 16 years and older only: This tour is only available to guests who are 16 years and over. 10:30am Departure

Itinerary

Pass by

We launch from the historic Makena Landing area. Very interesting history of cattle ranching and using the landing as a loading / drop off are for cattle coming off ships.

120 min

The famous Makena area just south of Wailea offers gorgeous beaches and access to Makena Bay. Makena Bay is world famous for excellent snorkeling, beautiful beaches, and "Turtle Town".

Highlights

Quality Touring Kayaks - Singles and Doubles Available
Light refreshments
Local taxes
Guide Assisted Launch and Landings
CPR and First Aid Certified Guides with Many Years Ocean Experience
Quality Snorkel Equipment, PFD, and dry bag if needed
Beach Instructions and Safety Talk

What's included

Included
Quality Touring Kayaks - Singles and Doubles Available
Light refreshments
Local taxes
Guide Assisted Launch and Landings
CPR and First Aid Certified Guides with Many Years Ocean Experience
Quality Snorkel Equipment, PFD, and dry bag if needed
Beach Instructions and Safety Talk
Not included
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop off

Traveller Ratings

4.8
335 reviews
5
290
4
28
3
6
2
1
1
10

Important Information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Paddling distance is approx 1.5 to 2.0 miles
  • The 10:30am tour is only available to guests who are 16 years and over.
  • The 7:15am departure offers ideal weather conditions, more active reef life, better visibility, etc. Best Experience!
  • 715 tour time ages 5+ / 1030 tour time ages 16+

Reviews(335)

J
Jodi_P
May 24, 2026
Great Kayak and Snorkel tour

A great experience. Our guide, Tyler, was knowledgeable and friendly. His orientation and guidance was thorough. He took us to the best spots to snorkel and see the fish and turtles. He was even able to help some of our group get back into the kayaks as that can be tricky. Overall, it was a delightful morning!

L
Leesha_R
May 17, 2026
Na

Enjoyed the massive turtle population, great tour. Awesome weather. Thank you Mia! Definitely will be back.

Operator response

Thanks for your feedback. Makena Bay (aka "Turtle Town") is a hands down winner for turtles. Travel safe and we'll see you again on the next go round!

S
Scarlett_G
May 11, 2026
This was a great...

This was a great experience! We went on the 10:30 tour but still had calm waters and lots of turtles. Jeremiah was a great guide. He explained everything down to the basics so that I felt comfortable even with no kayak or snorkeling experience. The kayaks were very fun and sturdy and Jeremiah shared a lot of great stories and facts along the way. The snorkeling site had so much to look at and Jeremiah was super patient as I figured out the snorkeling portion. Overall, an awesome experience.

R
rogermG2865JR
April 19, 2026
We were given great instructions Tyler was so helpful kind and so much fun!!

Tyler was the best! Knowledgeable home grown and a whole lot of fun!

T
T7366BNrachelb
April 13, 2026
Best experience ever!

After a location change and a few times of rescheduling due to weather, we were lucky enough to get out on our last chance before heading back home. Tyler was amazing!!! He took time for us beginners, explained everything beforehand, and got us over our fears! We had a rough start to our first time on the island, but Tyler made our entire trip absolutely special. Next time we’re on Maui, we will be hoping for another trip with Tyler!

M
Mark_R
April 3, 2026
Great kayaking and turtle spot

Great kayaking spot. Saw many turtles and a pod of dolphins. Very easy paddle to snorkeling spot. Our guide Tyler was outstanding, very patient and knowledgeable.

H
Heather_M
March 26, 2026
Rabbit was our tour guide...

Rabbit was our tour guide and he was fantastic! He used his humor and experience to make everyone feel comfortable and enjoy the activity! Thank you so much Rabbit!

R
Ron_V
January 21, 2026
A wonderful morning kayaking and exploring on the sea.

It was fun, exciting, and we saw lots of whales in the kayaks and turtles snorkeling. Our guide Mia was outstanding. Good instructor, good marine knowledge and a clever sense of humor.

Operator response

Sounds like you had a nice morning out on the water. Makena is such a great spot for enjoying all that it has to offer. MIa is a great guide - experienced and quite a unique character. Thanks for the review

B
Becky_P
January 12, 2026
Bucket List Experience

Jake was an amazing instructor and guide our family of first timer kayakers. We saw several fish turtles when visiting the "cleaning station." Guide provided drinks, snacks and snorkel gear as well. Thank you Jake, for the experience. Highly recommend!

Operator response

Mahalo for the review! Makena is a great great spot to go out (our guides favorite)..... so much to see and enjoy there! Have a great time on Mau.

M
Mindy_P
January 11, 2026
Loved it

Our guide, Rabbit, was great! He handled the different comfort levels of the group seamlessly, making it a very enjoyable experience for all. Additionally, he might be a whale whisperer! Definitely worth it!

Operator response

.... Rabbit is a newer guide but fit right in and has embraced the island lifestyle. Whales do seem to like him....... Thanks for the review! Appreciate your business!

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