Maui: Makena Bay Kayak & Turtle Snorkel Small Group Tour

Summary

Makena Bay kayaking with turtles reef snorkeling and volcano views

You’ll paddle Makena Bay’s calm waters with a small group and local guide, spotting Molokini’s outline and Haleakala’s slopes as you go. Snorkel over lively reefs in Turtle Town beside Hawaii’s green sea turtles—sometimes dolphins or whales show up too. All gear is included, plus light refreshments and plenty of time to soak it all in.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if sea turtles really glide that close to you? I did — until we set out from the edge of Makena Bay just after sunrise. The air was that salty-sweet mix you only get in Maui, and our guide Keoni handed out paddles with a grin like he knew what we’d see before we did. It’s not hard paddling here, more like floating along the coastline while Haleakala sits heavy in the background. I kept catching flashes of Molokini’s crescent shape on the horizon, but honestly, it was hard to focus on anything except the water — so clear you could spot fish darting below even before we got in to snorkel.

Keoni told us Turtle Town is kind of a local nickname — he pointed out how the green sea turtles always seem to find their way back to this stretch. I tried not to flail when one drifted by me underwater (they’re bigger than you think), and at one point I just hung there listening to my own bubbles and thinking about how ancient these creatures are. The reef itself felt alive too: little pops of yellow and blue from fish, sunlight flickering through the surface. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for someone laughing through their snorkel — probably me, honestly.

The whole thing lasted about two and a half hours, but it didn’t feel rushed at all. We had bottled water stashed in the kayaks, which tasted way better than usual after saltwater swimming. The group was small — maybe eight or nine of us — so nobody got lost in the shuffle or felt like they had to keep up. Keoni checked in with everyone before we paddled back; he even gave me tips on holding the paddle better (apparently my left hand has a mind of its own). And then it was just sun on my shoulders and that weird mix of tired and happy you only get after being out on the water for a while.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and snorkel in Makena Bay

• Meet guide for morning paddle
• Paddle along Makena Bay coastline
• View Molokini and Haleakala Volcano
• Snorkel over colorful reefs
• Snorkel in Turtle Town with turtles
• Watch for dolphins and whales
• Complete 2.5-hour kayak and snorkel

Top questions

How long is the South Shore Turtle Kayak & Snorkel Experience?

The tour lasts about 2.5 hours total, including both kayaking and snorkeling time.

Is this kayak tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s designed for beginners as well as experienced paddlers ages 5 and up.

Are life jackets and snorkel gear provided?

Yes, all necessary equipment including life jackets and snorkeling gear is included.

How many people are on each tour?

The maximum group size is around 10 paddlers per guide for a small-group feel.

Will I see turtles during the tour?

You’ll snorkel in Turtle Town where Hawaii’s green sea turtles are often seen, though sightings can’t be guaranteed.

What’s included

Your morning includes use of quality ocean kayaks, all snorkel equipment, life jackets for safety, light refreshments like bottled water, plus beachside instruction from your professional local guide before heading out together on Makena Bay.