Maui Makena: Clear Bottom Kayak & Snorkel at Turtle Town

Summary

Morning kayak adventure in Makena with turtles and reef views

You’ll paddle clear bottom kayaks over Makena’s reefs at Turtle Town, guided by locals who know every lava finger and turtle hangout. Snorkel among tropical fish or just gaze below from your kayak. Early morning quiet makes everything sharper — even the taste of saltwater stays with you after.

What’s the experience like?

We met up at Turtle Town in Makena just as the light was starting to spill over the water — I could smell sunscreen and coffee from someone’s thermos, which made me smile. Our guide, Kai, handed out these clear bottom kayaks (I’d never seen one before) and walked us through safety stuff without making it feel like a lecture. There was this easygoing vibe — maybe because it’s family-run? Anyway, I was a little nervous since I’m not much of a kayaker, but Kai said most people aren’t. He even joked about his first time flipping over (which didn’t exactly calm me down but did make me laugh).

Paddling out was quieter than I expected. The water around Makena is almost glassy that early, so you hear paddles dipping and sometimes a bird yelling somewhere inland. Looking down through the kayak — that’s wild. You see coral fingers and flashes of fish darting around. At one point, Kai pointed out an eel winding between rocks; I squinted for ages before spotting it. We hovered above these lava flows that he said were 500 years old. It’s weirdly moving seeing something that ancient just sitting under you.

Snorkeling was optional but honestly—why wouldn’t you? The mask fogged up at first (classic), but once I got it sorted, there were turtles everywhere. One swam right by my elbow and I panicked a bit thinking I’d touch it by accident (don’t worry, I didn’t). The water tasted salty and clean — not sure how else to put it. Someone in our group spotted an octopus hiding out; Kai dove down to point it out properly. If you come in winter, apparently whales sometimes cruise past — we heard them calling underwater for a second or two, which gave me goosebumps.

Afterward we sat on the beach with some snacks (vegan options too), legs still wobbly from the kayak. People swapped stories about what they saw; someone had counted five turtles but I lost track after two. There’s something about being out there early before crowds show up — it sticks with you longer than you think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Clear bottom kayak and snorkel tour

• Meet guide at Turtle Town
• Attend safety briefing
• Launch clear bottom kayak
• Paddle over shallow reefs
• Optional snorkel at marine spots
• Swim with turtles and marine life
• Enjoy views of Maui scenery

Top questions

What time does the clear bottom kayak tour at Turtle Town start?

The tour runs daily from 7am to 10am for calm conditions.

Is snorkeling included in the Maui Makena kayak tour?

Yes, snorkeling is optional but included in the price of the tour.

Are beginners welcome on this clear kayak & snorkel tour?

No kayaking or snorkeling experience is necessary; guides provide instruction.

Can you see turtles during this day trip at Turtle Town?

Yes, green sea turtles are commonly seen while kayaking and snorkeling at Turtle Town.

Is hotel pickup included for this Maui kayak tour?

No, participants meet their guide directly at Turtle Town in Makena.

What is the weight limit for the clear bottom kayaks?

The individual weight limit is strictly 220 lbs; tandem kayaks have a combined limit of 420 lbs.

Are snacks provided on this clear bottom kayak tour?

Yes, pre-packaged snacks are provided with vegan and gluten-free options available.

Will we see whales during this Maui kayak trip?

You may spot humpback whales in winter months as tours take place in a whale sanctuary.

What’s included

Your morning includes all snorkeling equipment, use of clear bottom or regular kayaks depending on your needs, pre-packaged snacks (with vegan and gluten-free options), single-use water if needed (though reusable bottles are encouraged), plus guidance from experienced local guides who keep things safe but relaxed throughout your time on Maui’s reefs.