Maui , United States

Turtle Reef Kayak Tour of Makena, Maui

Active

(321 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This fun and educational Maui kayaking tour starts at Makena Landing and paddles around the bay area. The calm, clear ocean is perfect for various water activities including swimming, snorkeling and animal watching. Float next to peaceful turtles and admire the stunning tropical underwater world. Leave all your worries behind and join this unique Hawaiian experience.

Available options

10:30am Departure

Departs at 10:30am

7:15am Departure

Departs at 7:15am

What's included

Quality Touring Kayaks - Singles and Doubles Available

Light refreshments

Local taxes

Guide Assisted Launch and Landings

CPR and First Aid Certified Guides with Many Years Ocean Experience

Quality Snorkel Equipment, PFD, and dry bag if needed

Beach Instructions and Safety Talk

Detailed itinerary

We launch from the historic Makena Landing area. Very interesting history of cattle ranching and using the landing as a loading / drop off are for cattle coming off ships.

The famous Makena area just south of Wailea offers gorgeous beaches and access to Makena Bay. Makena Bay is world famous for excellent snorkeling, beautiful beaches, and "Turtle Town".

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

241 reviews

5★

204

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

80 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Paddling distance is approx 1.5 to 2.0 miles

The 10:30am tour is only available to guests who are 16 years and over.

The 7:15am departure offers ideal weather conditions, more active reef life, better visibility, etc. Best Experience!

715 tour time ages 5+ / 1030 tour time ages 16+

Meeting point

*** Google / Apple Map "Makena Landing" **** DO NOT GO TO A RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS
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From Makena Landing parking lot, walk 100 yards over little hill with ocean on right - you'll see kayaks there. Please google map "Makena Landing beach Park" or "Maluaka Beach Parking Lot" option B

Important notes

• Please plan your drive ahead of time to arrive on time.

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Google / Apple Map "Makena Landing" ****** arrive 15 minutes ahead of tour
Guests arriving after 7:15 will be considered no show
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We are anxious to get you out on the water. You are part of a group tour so we count on all guests arriving in a timely manner - we can't stress this enough. A little planning will go a long way.

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE Plan your drive to arrive on time. Google / Apple Map "Makena Landing" prior to leaving for this adventure, calculate drive time and add 15 minutes. You need to time to park, check in, apply sunscreen, and perhaps use the restroom, etc.

Late arrivals may be denied participation and no refund will be issued.

Please ensure you've included reliable contact information with reservation for you while on Maui. This is required in order to advise you of any issues that may arise with weather, surf, etc.

Opening hours are:

06:00 - 20:00 Monday to Sunday

About Maui

Maui, known as the Valley Isle, is the second-largest Hawaiian island and offers a diverse landscape of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic mountains. It's renowned for its stunning sunrises and sunsets, world-class snorkeling, and the scenic Road to Hana.

Top Attractions

Road to Hana

A 160 km (100-mile) drive along the island's northern coast, featuring waterfalls, lush rainforests, and stunning ocean views. A must-do for any visitor.

Scenic Drive Full day Free (parking fees may apply at some stops)

Haleakala National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the dormant Haleakala volcano, unique ecosystems, and stunning sunrise and sunset views.

Nature Half day to full day $30 per vehicle (7-day pass)

Molokini Crater

A partially submerged volcanic crater offering world-class snorkeling and diving with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

Adventure Half day $100-150 per person (including snorkel gear and lunch)

Lahaina Town

A charming historic town with a rich whaling history, boutique shops, art galleries, and waterfront dining.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore (costs vary for shopping and dining)

Iao Valley State Park

A lush, tropical valley featuring the iconic Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot tall volcanic pinnacle, and scenic hiking trails.

Nature 1-2 hours $5 per vehicle (Hawaii residents free)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poke

A traditional Hawaiian dish made with diced raw fish, typically tuna or salmon, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Served over rice or as a salad.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made with cooked fish or vegetarian options.

Loco Moco

A hearty dish featuring a bed of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. A comfort food favorite in Hawaii.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan versions available.

Malasadas

Portuguese-inspired fried dough balls, dusted with sugar or filled with sweet fillings like custard or haupia (coconut pudding). A popular treat from Teddy's Bake Shop in Lahaina.

Dessert Vegetarian (contains eggs and dairy).

Shave Ice

Finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups and often served with a scoop of ice cream or sweetened condensed milk. A refreshing treat, especially on hot days.

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available (check for dairy-free syrups).

Popular Activities

Hiking Snorkeling Scuba Diving Surfing Zip-lining Beach lounging Spa treatments Sunset cruises

Best Time to Visit

April to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather, lower humidity, and fewer tourists. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the island.

22-29°C 72-84°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Tagalog, Japanese, Ilocano
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST), GMT-10:00

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Maui is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in tourist areas. However, petty theft and scams can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering services or deals that seem too good to be true
• Use reputable tour operators and rental companies

Getting there

By air

Kahului Airport • 2.4 km (1.5 miles) from Kahului

By bus

Kahului, Lahaina, Wailuku

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable but infrequent service. Best for short trips between towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kihei Wailea Lahaina Upcountry Maui

Day trips

Lana'i

16 km (10 miles) by ferry from Lahaina • Full day

A secluded island known for its luxury resorts, scenic beaches, and off-road adventures. Ideal for those looking to escape the crowds of Maui.

Molokini Crater

16 km (10 miles) by boat from Kihei • Half day

A partially submerged volcanic crater offering world-class snorkeling and diving with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

Haleakala National Park

48 km (30 miles) from Kahului • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the dormant Haleakala volcano, unique ecosystems, and stunning sunrise and sunset views.

Festivals

Maui Film Festival • June Maui County Fair • Late September to early October Maui Whale Festival • February to March (peak whale watching season)

Pro tips

Rent a car for at least part of your trip to explore the island's diverse landscapes and attractions
Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season
Visit popular attractions like the Road to Hana and Haleakala National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and follow local guidelines for responsible snorkeling and diving
Try local specialties like poke, loco moco, and malasadas for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience