Maui: Private Stand Up Paddle Boarding Tour in Turtle Town

Summary

Glide over Makena Bay’s reefs, meet turtles and paddle with a local

You’ll start with a quick SUP lesson in calm Makena Bay before paddling out alongside your guide — spotting sea turtles gliding beneath you and drifting past ancient lava cliffs. Expect small stories from locals, digital photos included, and plenty of time to find your balance while floating above Maui’s reefs. It’s peaceful in ways you might not expect.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so wobbly at first — it’s weird how standing on water messes with your brain. Our guide, Kaleo, just grinned and told me to “let my knees be noodles.” I tried not to overthink it as the board rocked under my feet. The sun was already warm, but the breeze off Makena Bay kept things comfortable. I could smell sunscreen (mine, mostly) and the salty air mixing together. We’d started early enough that the water was almost glassy, just a couple of other boards in the distance.

Kaleo showed us how to hold the paddle without looking like total beginners — though I’m pretty sure my arms were doing their own thing half the time. He pointed out where the reef dropped off, and suddenly there were these slow-moving shapes below us: green sea turtles, just kind of gliding along like they owned the place. One popped up for air right near me and I almost lost my balance from surprise. There was this moment where everything got quiet except for some distant laughter from another group and the soft splash of paddles.

We drifted past these black lava cliffs that looked sharp enough to slice your board if you got too close (I stayed far away). The coral below was all sorts of colors — not bright, but subtle pinks and greens if you looked closely. Kaleo told stories about how this area used to be a fishing spot for his grandfather, which made me see it differently somehow. Oh, and he took photos of us that actually turned out pretty good — even when I was concentrating way too hard on staying upright.

I still think about that feeling of floating above everything — fish darting underneath, sun on my shoulders, legs shaking less with every minute. It wasn’t about being perfect at stand up paddle boarding; it was more about sharing space with those turtles and hearing someone local talk about what this bay means to them. If you’re curious or even a little nervous (like me), you’ll probably end up loving it anyway.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private Stand Up Paddle Boarding Tour

• Meet experienced SUP guide
• Receive introductory SUP lesson
• Paddle in calm Makena Bay waters
• Explore coastline and sea caves
• Observe green sea turtles and coral reefs
• Learn about Maui’s marine environment
• Improve paddling technique with instructor
• Enjoy views of Haleakala and Molokini Crater

Top questions

Is this stand up paddle boarding tour in Maui suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners get an introductory lesson in calm waters at Makena Bay before heading out.

Where does the private SUP tour take place?

The tour is along Maui’s coastline near Turtle Town in Makena Bay.

Will we see sea turtles during this SUP tour?

You have a good chance of spotting green sea turtles swimming below as you paddle.

How long does it take to learn stand up paddle boarding here?

Most guests are up and paddling within 30 minutes after instruction.

Are digital photos included on this Maui SUP tour?

Yes, a free digital photo package is included with your booking.

What should I bring for this day trip?

A hat, sunglasses with straps, swimsuit, flip flops or beach shoes are recommended.

Is there somewhere safe to store valuables during the tour?

Yes, secure storage for personal belongings is available onsite.

What happens if the weather is bad on our booking date?

If poor weather cancels your tour, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

What’s included

Your morning includes comprehensive instruction from an experienced guide who’ll help you get started with stand up paddle equipment provided. You’ll wear USCG certified life jackets for safety and can store valuables securely while enjoying free digital photos from your day on Makena Bay’s waters.