The Makena-Wailea Explorer Trip in Maui offers an exciting opportunity for adventure seekers to experience the stunning south coast of the island. This 4-hour kayaking and snorkeling excursion allows participants to explore the vibrant marine life of Turtle Town and Five Graves, guided by experienced professionals. With a small group size and personalized attention, this trip promises an unforgettable encounter with Maui’s breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time adventurer, this outing might just be the highlight of your Maui vacation.
Key Points

- 4-hour kayak and snorkeling tour along Maui’s south coast with a maximum of 8 participants.
- Explore Turtle Town and Five Graves, known for diverse marine life including green sea turtles and seasonal humpback whales.
- Professional guides trained in lifeguard, CPR, and first aid ensure safety and provide expert commentary.
- Includes bottled water, snacks, kayaks, and snorkel gear, with hotel pickup and drop-off services available.
- Tour not recommended for travelers with back problems or children under 8, and is subject to favorable weather conditions.
Trip Overview

The Makena-Wailea Explorer Trip offers a 4-hour kayak and snorkeling experience along Maui’s picturesque south coast.
This small group activity (maximum 8 participants) allows explorers to discover Turtle Town and Five Graves, renowned for marine life sightings like green sea turtles, manta rays, octopuses, dolphins, and humpback whales (December to April).
Snorkelers can enjoy the vibrant coral reefs along the Pu’uolai coastline, admiring the unique geological formations.
With professional guides trained in lifeguard, CPR, and first aid, participants can enjoy a safe and memorable adventure in Maui’s pristine waters.
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Inclusions

Bottled water and snacks are provided for participants.
The tour also includes the use of kayaks and snorkel gear. Participants are accompanied by professional guides trained in lifeguard, CPR, and first aid, ensuring safety throughout the excursion.
Hotel pickup and drop-off services are available for added convenience. Those interested in souvenirs can purchase photos from the tour.
Meeting Point and Schedule

At the meeting location of Makena Landing Park, 5083 Makena Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, USA, the 4-hour Makena-Wailea Explorer Trip begins at 7:00 AM.
Participants receive confirmation at the time of booking and have the flexibility to cancel up to 2 days in advance for a full refund.
The small group excursion accommodates a maximum of 8 people, providing an intimate experience exploring Turtle Town and Five Graves.
Throughout the journey, the professional guides trained in lifeguarding, CPR, and first aid ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests.
Exploring Turtle Town and Five Graves

Departing from Makena Landing Park, the kayak and snorkeling adventure traverses the pristine Pu’uolai coastline, offering participants the opportunity to explore the renowned Turtle Town and Five Graves. This marine sanctuary is known for its diverse array of wildlife, including green sea turtles, manta rays, octopuses, dolphins, and humpback whales (during the December to April season).
| Marine Life | Habitat | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Green Sea Turtles | Coral Reefs | Common |
| Manta Rays | Open Water | Occasional |
| Octopuses | Rocky Outcroppings | Rare |
| Dolphins | Open Water | Occasional |
| Humpback Whales | Open Water | Seasonal |
The guides provide expert commentary on the local ecology and wildlife, enhancing the overall educational and immersive experience for the participants.
Snorkeling the Pu’uolai Coastline

The Pu’uolai coastline along Makena’s southern shores provides a captivating snorkeling experience for participants. Beneath the surface, visitors encounter a vibrant underwater world, with unique geological formations and a diverse array of marine life.
Colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish create a mesmerizing panorama. Snorkelers may spot green sea turtles, manta rays, or even elusive octopuses as they glide effortlessly through the clear waters.
The region’s tranquil coves and hidden grottos offer ample opportunities to observe the ocean’s inhabitants in their natural habitat. With professional guides leading the way, participants can fully enjoy the wonders of this captivating snorkeling destination.
Health and Safety Considerations
Ensuring the safety and comfort of participants is of paramount importance for the Makena-Wailea Explorer Trip.
The tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for travelers with back problems or children under 8 years old, due to the moderate physical fitness level required.
Participants should be aware that the tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, and alternative dates or full refunds are offered if canceled due to poor weather.
To enhance the experience, the tour operator suggests bringing waterproof phone bags for taking photos during the snorkeling portion of the trip.
Customer Feedback and Ratings

The Makena-Wailea Explorer Trip has garnered 56 reviews with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Positive comments highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides, the focus on safety, and the memorable experiences with marine life. Some suggestions include bringing waterproof phone bags for photos and noting that some snorkel equipment may be older. The customer feedback provides valuable insights for potential participants:
| Positive | Neutral | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Knowledgeable guides | Waterproof phone bags | Older snorkel equipment |
| Safety focus | – | – |
| Memorable marine life | – | – |
This feedback can help travelers make an informed decision about booking the Makena-Wailea Explorer Trip.
What to Bring and Prepare

Participants should consider packing a few essential items for the Makena-Wailea Explorer Trip. A waterproof phone or camera bag will allow for capturing memorable photos of marine life.
Sunscreen, a hat, and lightweight, quick-drying clothing are recommended to protect against the sun. Reef-safe sunscreen is encouraged to preserve the fragile ecosystem.
Bring a small towel and wear water shoes or sandals that can get wet. Plus, participants should stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle.
Proper preparation ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience during the kayak and snorkeling adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The tour allows free cancellation up to 2 days prior to the start date. If the tour is canceled due to poor weather, customers will be offered an alternative tour date or a full refund.
Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Participate?
Swimming ability is not required to participate in this kayak and snorkeling tour. However, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended, as the activity involves spending time in the water. Guides are trained in lifeguard and first aid procedures for safety.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Gear?
Participants are welcome to bring their own snorkel gear if preferred. However, the tour provider offers complimentary use of snorkel equipment as part of the trip package. Guests should verify equipment compatibility before the tour.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
According to the tour information, the kayak and snorkeling trip is not recommended for children under 8 years old. The minimum age requirement for participants is 8 years old and a moderate physical fitness level is required.
Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?
The tour can accommodate private groups. Customers have the option to book the tour exclusively for their own group, up to the maximum group size of 8 participants. Private group bookings are subject to availability.
The Sum Up
The Makena-Wailea Explorer Trip in Maui offers an engaging 4-hour kayaking and snorkeling adventure along the picturesque south coast. Experienced guides lead participants to explore diverse marine life in Turtle Town and Five Graves, while providing personalized attention in a small group setting. With inclusions like gear and refreshments, this excursion is an excellent choice for adventurous travelers seeking to enjoy Maui’s stunning natural beauty.
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