Paddle with Turtles: South Shore Kayak and Snorkel from Makena Landing, Maui
Launch from Makena Landing for a calm 2.5-hour paddle and guided snorkel through Turtle Town—snorkel with endangered green sea turtles, scan for dolphins and seasonal humpbacks, and take in Molokini and Haleakala from the water. This family-friendly morning tour pairs easy paddling with focused reef time.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early and checked in
Plan for a 7:00 a.m. check-in at Makena Landing and allow extra time for parking; mornings offer the calmest water.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen before you arrive and reapply sparingly to protect corals and marine life.
Leave valuables at your hotel
Guides advise removing jewelry and watches—store small items in your car or hotel to avoid loss and damage.
Know basic swim comfort
Tour is suitable for ages 5+, but you should be comfortable swimming short distances and snorkeling with a mask.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle the short inlet near Turtle Town for clearer shallow reef photo ops
- •Look back toward Puʻu Olai (Red Hill) for quiet shoreline viewpoints and lava-rock formations south of Makena
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtles (honu)
- •Humpback whales (seasonal: Dec–Apr)
Conservation Note
Operators emphasize reef-safe sunscreen, no-touch policies for turtles and corals, and small-group sizes to minimize impact on marine habitats.
Makena’s shoreline has long been used for fishing and coastal use by Native Hawaiians; the volcanic island structure and offshore craters like Molokini shape local marine ecosystems.
Photographer's Notes
- • Along the paddle route toward Turtle Town
- • Overlooking Molokini crater silhouette from the water
- • Near shallow reef edges for close turtle portraits
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects coral and reduces skin damage during sun exposure.
Snorkel mask (personal fit)
A well-fitting mask prevents leaks and improves underwater visibility.
Water shoes or reef bootiesEssential
Protects feet on rocky shores and when entering/exiting kayaks.
Lightweight rashguard or sun shirtEssential
Provides sun protection and a layer if mornings are breezy.
Common Questions
How long is the snorkeling portion?
Snorkel time is approximately 45 minutes within the 2.5-hour tour, depending on conditions.
Are children allowed?
Yes—children aged 5 and up are welcome; guides assess comfort and fit life jackets appropriately.
Is previous kayaking experience required?
No—this is beginner-friendly and includes beachside paddling instruction before launch.
What wildlife might we see?
Common sightings include green sea turtles and reef fish; dolphins and humpback whales (Dec–Apr) are possible but not guaranteed.
What should I bring?
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, a hat, water shoes, and any personal snorkel gear if you prefer it over provided equipment.
What is the refund/cancellation policy?
Full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time; the operator may cancel for weather and provide a refund.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2.5 hours
Location
Wailea, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light fitness—able to sit and paddle for short periods and swim briefly while snorkeling
Ready to Explore Wailea?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now