West Maui Snorkel: Afternoon Tour from Ka’anapali Beach

Summary

Afternoon snorkeling in Maui with turtles coral reefs and open bar

You’ll board right from Ka’anapali Beach for an easygoing afternoon snorkel tour in West Maui—no early wake-up required. Swim alongside sea turtles and bright reef fish as your local guide shares stories about the area. After snorkeling, relax with appetizers and drinks before returning to shore refreshed—just in time for dinner plans.

What’s the experience like?

"You ever tried putting on fins in the sand?" That’s what our captain asked as we shuffled down Ka’anapali Beach, sun still high but not harsh. I’d slept in, grabbed a coffee, and somehow still felt lazy until my toes hit that warm sand. The boat boards right off the beach — no fancy dock, just you and your bare feet. There was a salty breeze, sunscreen smell everywhere, and people laughing as they figured out their masks. Our guide, Kaleo, had this calm way of explaining things — even when I fumbled with my snorkel strap (twice), he just grinned and helped out.

The ride out wasn’t long — maybe twenty minutes? Hard to say because I got distracted watching the light flicker off the water and listening to stories about Hawaiian green sea turtles. Apparently they’re called honu here. We anchored near some reef that looked almost painted from above, all those weird purples and yellows. When I finally slid into the water (awkwardly — it’s harder than it looks), there was this cool hush under the surface except for my own breathing and these flashes of blue fish darting past. And then there it was — a turtle gliding by like it owned the place. I swear it looked me right in the eye for a second.

Back on board, everyone swapped stories while munching pork sliders and fried chicken (the chili garlic aioli is… wow). Someone spilled pasta salad but nobody cared — ocean air makes you hungry, I guess. The open bar opened up too; Mai Tais taste different after swimming with turtles, don’t ask me why. By the time we headed back toward Ka’anapali Beach, the sun was starting to dip but we were still back before dinner. There’s something about drying off in that late afternoon light that just sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Afternoon snorkel adventure in West Maui

• Relax in the morning
• Depart at noon from Ka’anapali Beach
• Snorkel at West Maui location
• See Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and fish
• Enjoy pupus and open bar
• Return before dinner

Top questions

What time does the West Maui snorkel tour depart?

The afternoon snorkel tour departs at noon from Ka’anapali Beach.

Is snorkeling equipment included on this tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

Are food and drinks provided during the trip?

Yes, heavy appetizers like pork sliders and fried chicken plus an open bar are included.

How long does the afternoon snorkel trip last?

The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours total.

Where does the boat board for this Maui snorkel excursion?

The boat boards directly from Ka’anapali Beach—no dock needed.

Will I see Hawaiian green sea turtles on this trip?

You’ll likely encounter resident Hawaiian green sea turtles while snorkeling near West Maui reefs.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at Ka’anapali Beach with parking validation provided.

Can people who can’t swim join this snorkel trip?

No, travelers who wish to enter the water or snorkel must have swimming ability.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes parking validation at Ka’anapali Beach, use of all snorkeling equipment, heavy appetizers like pork sliders and fried chicken with chili garlic aioli, Asian slaw and pasta salad, plus an open bar serving alcoholic beverages—all guided by a friendly local crew before returning to shore in time for dinner.