Snorkeling and Kayaking Maui South Shore: Makena Bay
Turtles and tropical fish live in the shallows you paddle through.
A 3.5-hour kayak and snorkel activity on Maui's South Shore starting from Makena Beach, where you paddle the reef, stop at multiple snorkel sites guided by naturalists, and return by kayak. Snorkel equipment, kayaks (singles and doubles), light refreshments, and a CPR-certified guide are included. You meet at the beach and arrange your own transport there.
Step-by-step itinerary
Kayak and snorkel at Makena Bay
- Kayak along Makena coastline
- Snorkel at reef with naturalist
- Spot tropical fish and turtles
- Easy paddle back to start
What’s included
- Quality snorkel equipment, personal flotation device, and water socks.
- quality touring kayaks in single and double options.
- guide-assisted launch and landings.
- light refreshments.
- CPR and First Aid certified guide with years of ocean experience.
- beach safety instruction.
- Monday to Saturday 07:00
Information
Paddle 3.5 miles along Makena's reef and snorkel multiple stops with a naturalist guide, all gear and light refreshments included. Launches from Makena Beach.
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The experience
The paddle covers 3.5 miles along the Makena coastline, moving at an easy pace with the guide leading the way. You'll launch from Makena Beach in a quality touring kayak (single or double, your choice) with a PFD, water socks, and snorkel gear already loaded. The guide handles the launch and landing, so entry into the water is straightforward even if you haven't paddled before. Light refreshments are provided during the activity.
Once on the water, the reef reveals multi-colored tropical fish and turtles. The guide stops at a few snorkel sites along the way and stays in the water with you, pointing out what lives there and answering questions. Each stop is guided, so you're not navigating the reef alone. The paddle back to shore is unhurried, and the whole outing is designed to work for families.
Your guide is CPR and First Aid certified with many years of ocean experience and speaks English. The activity requires at least a moderate level of physical fitness. Children under 10 are not recommended for this one. Infants and small children can come along in a pram or stroller on the beach, and service animals are welcome. You'll need to arrange your own transport to Makena Beach. The operator does not provide hotel pickup.
Top questions
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What's the paddling distance on this snorkeling activity?
The paddling distance is 3.5 miles along the Makena coastline, split between the outbound paddle to the snorkel sites and the return to Makena Beach.
Can I choose between a single kayak and a double?
Yes, quality touring kayaks are available in both single and double configurations, so you can paddle alone or share a kayak with another person.
What snorkel gear is provided?
Quality snorkel equipment, a personal flotation device (PFD), and water socks are all included. The guide assists with the launch and landing so you can focus on the water.
Is this activity suitable for young children?
The activity is not recommended for children aged 10 and under, though infants and small children can come to the beach in a pram or stroller while adults participate.
How many snorkel stops are there?
You'll stop at a few snorkel sites along the reef, each guided by a naturalist who points out the fish, turtles, and other marine life you encounter.
Operated by South Pacific Kayaks & Outfitters. Explorevia does not run this tour: we compare it with similar options, and you book it with our booking partner.
Prices and times updated today
Snorkeling and Kayaking Maui South Shore: Makena Bay
3h 30m · EN
from US$ 151.27 per person
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