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Maui Makena Kayak, Snorkel & Surf Package — Turtles, Reefs & Beginner Surf Lessons

Maui Makena Kayak, Snorkel & Surf Package — Turtles, Reefs & Beginner Surf Lessons

Pair a calm kayak and reef snorkel in Makena Bay with a beginner surf lesson at Kalama Park. See turtles and reef life, and learn to catch your first wave in a single action-packed day on South Maui.

Makena, Hawaii
5 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Bring reef‑safe sunscreen

The operator requires reef‑safe sunscreen—regular sunscreens harm coral; apply before arrival and reapply with a towel.

Hydrate and snack

Five hours of ocean activity in the sun needs a full water bottle and quick snacks between segments.

Wear secure swimwear and booties

Board booties or sturdy water shoes help in rocky entry points and during surf lessons.

Respect marine life

Keep distance from turtles and reef—do not touch or feed wildlife and avoid standing on coral.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Snorkel the rocky pocket at the north end of Makena Bay for clearer water and more fish
  • After the tour, take a short drive to La Perouse Bay for lava fields and tide pools often missed by visitors

Wildlife

  • Green sea turtles (honu)
  • Various reef fish including parrotfish and wrasses; humpback whales in season

Conservation Note

Use reef‑safe products and keep distance from marine animals. Tours operate under local rules to minimize anchor and trampling damage to coral.

The shoreline around Makena formed from relatively recent basalt flows off Haleakalā; coastal areas here were historically used by Hawaiian communities for fishing and surf practice.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Early morning for glassy water and softer light, Late afternoon for warmer tones; winter mornings for whale breaches
Key viewpoints:
  • From the kayak near the main snorkel patch for underwater life
  • The sandy approach at Kalama Park for low-angle wave/rider shots
  • Makena Landing bluff for wide coastal panoramas
Subjects to capture:Underwater reef and turtles, Surfing action and pop-up moments, Coastal lava formations and shoreline silhouettes

What to Bring

Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential

Protects skin and coral—apply before arriving and reapply after snorkeling.

Refillable water bottle / hydration packEssential

Keeps you hydrated through paddling and the surf lesson in tropical heat.

Water shoes / bootiesEssential

Protect feet on rocky entries and provide traction while learning to pop up on a board.

Waterproof camera or phone housing

Capture underwater life and wave rides without risking your device.

Common Questions

Do I need prior experience to join?

No—beginners are welcome. Guides teach paddle technique and snorkeling basics; surf lessons start on the sand and progress in protected waves.

Is gear provided?

Yes—kayaks, PFDs, snorkel gear, surfboards, booties and rash guards are included.

Can I see whales during this tour?

Yes—winter months (January–April) are prime for humpback sightings from the kayak if conditions are calm.

Where do we meet and is parking available?

Meet at Makena Landing Beach Park; there is limited beach parking—arrive early to secure a spot or carpool.

What if the weather is bad?

Tours cancel for unsafe conditions; the operator offers refunds if canceled for weather or insufficient travelers per policy.

Is this suitable for children?

Children are allowed but must be comfortable in the water; check with the operator for age recommendations and PFD sizing.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

5 hours

Location

Makena, Hawaii

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Moderate—comfortable swimming ability, basic upper‑body stamina for paddling, and balance for standing on a board.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Makena?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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