Maui Makena: South Shore Kayak & Snorkel Tour with Local Guide

Makena’s calm morning waters reveal sea turtles and reef life as you paddle and snorkel with local guides

You’ll paddle Maui’s south shore from Makena Beach with a local guide, spot sea turtles while kayaking, then slip into clear water for guided snorkeling among tropical fish and coral reefs. Expect laughter between new friends, sweet pineapple after swimming, and small moments that linger long after you’re dry again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak and snorkel at Makena Bay

• Kayak along Makena coastline
• Snorkel with tropical fish and turtles
• Visit multiple snorkel stops with naturalists
• Easy paddle back to start point

The Experience

“If you see a honu, don’t chase it—just float,” our guide Keoni said, grinning as he handed me my paddle on Makena Beach. I could smell sunscreen and salt in the air. The sand was cool under my feet, but the sun was already warming up fast. We got a quick rundown on paddling and safety—nothing too serious, but enough that I felt like I wouldn’t tip over right away. Keoni knew everyone’s name within five minutes, which somehow made me less nervous about the whole kayak thing.

Paddling out from Mākena was easier than I thought—it’s just this smooth rhythm once you get going, with the shoreline sliding by and the water getting clearer beneath us. At some point, I stopped to look back at Haleakalā in the distance. There were these tiny silver fish flickering near my paddle; Keoni pointed out a turtle surfacing nearby (I almost dropped my paddle). The other group ahead of us started laughing because someone tried to say “Mahalo” and totally butchered it—Keoni just laughed along.

The snorkeling part is what sticks with me most. You slip off the kayak into this world where everything slows down—just your breath in your mask and these wild flashes of yellow fish darting through coral. I swear one of the turtles winked at me (probably not possible, but still). The water was cooler than I expected, but not cold—just enough to wake you up. There was this moment when everyone went quiet underwater except for muffled giggles from someone who saw an eel.

On the way back, arms a little tired but happy-tired, we drifted together toward shore while Keoni tossed us bottles of water and pineapple chunks that tasted sweeter than anything from home. The wind picked up a bit so we had to work for those last few strokes—I didn’t mind though. Sometimes you finish something and realize it felt shorter than it really was; that’s how this day trip from Makena felt to me.

Top questions

How long is the Maui South Shore Kayak & Snorkel Tour?

The tour covers about 3.5 miles of paddling along Makena’s coastline.

Is snorkeling equipment included on the Makena kayak tour?

Yes, quality snorkel equipment is provided for all participants.

Are there age restrictions for this Maui kayak tour?

The tour isn’t recommended for children aged 10 or under.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Maui South Shore Kayak & Snorkel Tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring for the Makena kayaking day trip?

You’ll need sun protection; all kayaking and snorkeling gear plus light refreshments are included.

Are CPR-certified guides included?

Yes, guides are CPR and First Aid certified with years of ocean experience.

Can infants or small children join this tour?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller if needed.

What’s included

Your morning includes all quality kayaking gear—singles or doubles available—plus full snorkel sets, PFDs where needed, water socks if required, light refreshments like fruit and bottled water after paddling, as well as launch assistance from experienced local guides who handle safety briefings before you set out along Makena’s coastline.