South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel Experience

If you’re planning a trip to Maui and want a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty, the South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel Experience might just tick all your boxes. This tour, rated a perfect 5 out of 5 from hundreds of travelers, offers a relaxed yet engaging way to explore Maui’s south coast, especially if you love observing marine life in its natural habitat.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to paddle through Makena Bay with professional guides who keep safety and fun a top priority. Second, the opportunity to swim with green sea turtles, which are often friendly and curious—an unforgettable highlight. Lastly, the flexibility of the tour, with options for a shorter 2.5-hour adventure or a more leisurely 4.5-hour outing that includes lunch.

A small potential drawback? The meeting point isn’t hotel-based, so you’ll need to plan for transportation to the starting location. Nonetheless, this shouldn’t be a big issue for most visitors who are comfortable with a short drive or ride.

This tour suits adventurous families, first-time kayakers, or anyone wanting a taste of Maui’s underwater treasures without the need for prior experience. If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and wildlife-rich outing, this is a fantastic choice.

• Family-Friendly and Accessible: No experience needed, guides provide paddling instructions.
• Wildlife Encounters: Close views of turtles, fish, and coral reefs.
• Flexible Duration: 2.5 hours or 4.5 hours with lunch.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, patient, and attentive to safety.
• All Equipment Provided: Kayaks, snorkeling gear, life jackets, and refreshments.
• Small Groups: Approximately 10 paddlers per guide for personalized attention.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at 5180 Makena Alanui, Kihei, a short drive from many Maui accommodations. Because hotel pickup isn’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation. Upon arrival, you’ll check in with the friendly staff and meet your guide, who will give a quick safety briefing and paddling instructions—especially useful if you’re new to kayaking.

Most travelers confirm their booking about 27 days in advance, which is wise given the tour’s popularity. The maximum group size is around ten paddlers per guide, making for a cozy and personalized experience.

Paddling Along Maui’s Scenic Coast

The tour’s core involves paddling along Maui’s beautiful southern shoreline, past iconic spots like Little Beach and Big Beach. The guides excel at making paddling accessible—whether you’re a complete novice or someone with more experience. Reviewers mention that the paddling distance is very leisurely, and guides like Tyler and Maddie excel at helping everyone feel comfortable on the water.

The water views are spectacular, with the coastline’s rugged beauty on full display. Expect the water to be calm and inviting, perfect for a relaxed paddle. Several reviews highlight how guides provide interesting commentary about Maui’s natural surroundings and marine life, enriching the experience beyond just the physical activity.

Snorkeling with Marine Life

Once you reach the snorkeling spot, it’s time to gear up! The provided snorkeling equipment allows you to peer into the underwater world teeming with colorful coral, schools of fish, and, most excitingly, green sea turtles. Many travelers comment on how close they get to these gentle creatures—some even say they swam right next to 4-5 turtles at a time, which is pretty special.

Reviewers like Jennifer and Tiffany share that their guides, Tyler and John, knew exactly where to take them and kept a keen eye out for turtles, making sure everyone had ample opportunity for photos and encounters. The underwater landscape is often described as vibrant and lively, with plenty of opportunities to see fish cleaning the turtles—an extraordinary experience.

Lunch and Relaxation (for the 4.5-hour Tour)

For those opting for the longer tour, a lunch break is included. The meal is a welcome addition, giving you time to relax and swap stories with fellow paddlers. Light refreshments are also available during the trip, keeping energy levels high. This makes the 4.5-hour option ideal for those who want a more laid-back, full-day feel.

Safety, Equipment, and Support

Safety is a noticeable priority here. The guides provide beachside paddling instruction for beginners, and life jackets are included for everyone. The tour uses late-model ocean touring kayaks, which are stable and comfortable—reviewers frequently mention how easy they are to handle, even for first-timers.

Snorkeling gear is also supplied, and the guides are praised for their patience and ability to help those who are less confident in the water. For instance, Nancy from the reviews appreciated how guide Tyler helped her see turtles despite her nerves about snorkeling.

Many reviewers emphasize the quality of guides like Tyler, Maddie, and John, describing them as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. Comments like “Tyler was extremely knowledgeable” and “John took us to some great areas to see sea turtles and fish” reflect the high level of expertise that goes into making this tour enjoyable.

A notable highlight from Jennifer’s review recounts paddling 1.5 miles out in search of whales—an optional add-on to the tour that shows how flexible and wildlife-focused this experience can be. Several guests also mention how guides spot and point out marine creatures, making the underwater encounters even more rewarding.

Plus, many reviews note how the small group size allows for a more intimate experience, with guides able to spend more time with each guest and ensure everyone gets the best views.

At a price of $118.84 per person, this tour offers a lot for those interested in marine wildlife and scenic paddling. The inclusion of quality equipment, expert guides, and the potential for close-up turtle sightings makes it a good value—especially considering the personalized attention and safety focus.

The tour’s flexible duration allows you to choose a shorter trip if you’re pressed for time or want to keep it light, or indulge in a longer, more relaxed experience with lunch. This adaptability caters well to different types of travelers, from active families to solo adventurers.

• First-time paddlers or snorkelers seeking a safe, guided introduction to Maui’s marine environment.
• Families with kids (most age ranges are suitable), thanks to the small group size and beginner-friendly approach.
• Wildlife enthusiasts eager to see turtles, fish, and possibly whales or dolphins.
• Those looking for a combination of scenic paddling and underwater exploration in a manageable time frame.
• Travellers who value local guides with in-depth knowledge, making each stop more meaningful.

The South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel Experience offers a well-rounded, authentic Maui adventure. The guides’ expertise, the chance to get so close to marine life, and the tranquility of paddling along the coast combine for a memorable outing. It’s especially ideal for those who want a family-friendly, safe, and relatively easy way to enjoy Maui’s underwater wonders without needing prior experience.

While it’s not a full-day tour, the options for longer trips with lunch make it versatile enough to suit different schedules and energy levels. The small group size ensures personal attention, making it more than just a generic tour—it’s a genuine, community-oriented experience.

If you’re looking for a fun, wildlife-rich activity that balances adventure with comfort and education, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What should I bring?
You should plan on bringing essentials like sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and water. All paddling and snorkeling equipment are provided, along with life jackets.

How physically demanding is this tour?
The paddling distance is described as very leisurely, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Guides will give paddling instructions to ensure everyone feels comfortable.

Can kids participate?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, and most travelers found it enjoyable for all ages. Small groups and patient guides make it accessible to beginners.

What marine animals might I see?
Most commonly, travelers encounter green sea turtles, colorful fish, and coral reefs. Occasionally, whale sightings are possible if you choose the longer tour in late April.

Are snorkel masks and fins included?
Yes, the tour provides snorkel equipment, including masks and fins, so you can focus on enjoying the underwater scenery.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, but weather-related cancellations are fully covered with options for rescheduling or a full refund.

This guided kayak and snorkel tour captures the essence of Maui’s south shore—offering a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic, small-group experience that’s beginner-friendly but still packed with memorable moments.