South Maui: Waterfall Tour w/ Kayak, Snorkel, and Hike

South Maui: Waterfall Tour w/ Kayak, Snorkel, and Hike offers a lively day exploring some of Maui’s most stunning natural attractions. Priced at $261 per person and lasting about 7.5 hours, this tour takes you from the calm waters of Makena Landing Beach Park to lush rainforests and spectacular waterfalls. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, you’ll paddle beside sea turtles, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, hike through verdant landscape, and even leap from cliffs into swimming pools beneath cascading waterfalls.

What we love about this experience is the combination of water-based activities and hiking—it’s a well-rounded way to see Maui’s diverse landscape in one day. The chance to spot Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles while snorkeling is a highlight that adds a special touch of nature’s wonder. Plus, the guides’ passion and expertise—like Tim’s engaging storytelling—make the adventure both educational and fun.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves active outdoor elements—you’ll need to be comfortable in the water and on your feet. Also, hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan your own way to the meeting point at Makena Landing Park. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy physical activity, are enthusiastic about nature, and appreciate a mix of adventure and scenic beauty.

Key Points

• Active adventure with kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and cliff jumping
• Expert guides who share local knowledge and ensure safety
• Wildlife encounters, especially Hawaiian Green sea turtles
• Stunning waterfalls and rainforest scenery in South Maui
• All-inclusive experience with lunch, snacks, and gear provided
• No hotel pickup—you must meet at Makena Landing Park

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Maui’s Natural Beauty: An In-Depth Review of the Waterfall Tour

Starting Point and Overall Experience

This tour begins at Makena Landing Beach Park—a peaceful spot on Maui’s south side, perfect for launching into a day of outdoor fun. Once there, you’ll gear up with a kayak, ready to paddle along the coastline, feeling the warmth of the Hawaiian sun on your back. Guided by seasoned instructors, you’ll paddle through gentle waves, and if you’re lucky, you’ll see sea turtles grazing near the surface—an unmistakable highlight that travelers consistently praise, like Gonzalo’s comment, “We saw some turtles, and really cool Waterfalls.”

After kayaking, the adventure shifts to snorkeling—where the clear waters offer a peek into Maui’s vibrant marine life. Many reviews emphasize how rewarding this part is, especially with the chance to spot green sea turtles and observe colorful reef fish. The water’s visibility is described as “crystal clear,” giving you the feeling of floating in an aquarium.

From there, you’ll switch gears to a guided hike through lush rainforest. Led by guides like Jacob, who impresses visitors with his knowledge of local flora and history, you’ll cross into a different world—green, tranquil, and teeming with life. The hike culminates at waterfalls where the real fun begins: swimming in natural pools, jumping off cliffs, and relaxing in the refreshing spray of cascading water.

What Makes This Tour Special

The variety of activities is a major selling point. We love how the tour seamlessly blends ocean activities with rainforest exploring, giving a full sense of Maui’s diverse ecosystems. The waterfalls and cliff jumps add an adrenaline rush that’s perfect for those craving a physical challenge combined with natural beauty.

Another aspect that stands out is the guides’ enthusiasm and expertise. As Nicole notes, Jacob’s knowledge about the island, plants, and secret spots made the experience more meaningful. The guides’ safety training, including advanced CPR and First Aid, reassures travelers that they’re in capable hands, even when flipping a kayak or tackling a cliff jump.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Morning Start at Makena Landing Park: Expect to meet your guides and get briefed on safety and equipment. The tour usually begins in the morning, which allows plenty of time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed.

Kayaking Along the Coast: You’ll paddle over calm, warm waters—an excellent way to get your bearings and enjoy the ocean scenery. The group size tends to be manageable, enhancing the feeling of a personalized adventure. Kayaking is suitable for most levels, but be prepared for some physical activity and balance challenges.

Snorkeling in Clear Water: Once you reach a prime snorkeling spot, you’ll jump in with gear provided. Be on the lookout for sea turtles and colorful fish. The water’s clarity makes it easy to spot marine life, and many reviews highlight how magical this part feels.

Rainforest Hike and Waterfall Swim: After drying off, your guides will lead you into a green canopy, crossing streams and passing native plants. The waterfall at the end is both scenic and interactive—here, you can swim, jump, or just relax in the cool pools. The option to jump off cliffs varies by individual comfort, but many find it exhilarating.

Lunch and Relaxation: An included lunch and snacks keep you energized, allowing you to relax and soak in the surroundings before returning to the beach.

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Practical Considerations

Since hotel pickup isn’t included, you’ll need to arrive at Makena Landing Park on your own. The meeting point is straightforward, and ample parking is available. The tour is approximately 7.5 hours long, making it a full day of activity but not overly exhausting for most travelers with moderate fitness.

What to bring is important—swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes or sports sandals. The weather can be unpredictable, but the tour runs in most conditions unless safety becomes an issue.

What Travelers Say

Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a perfect 5-star rating from 18 visitors. Gonzalo sums it up nicely: “Great hike, great kayak, saw turtles, and waterfalls,” emphasizing the blend of activities. Nicole highlights the knowledgeable guides and the secluded spots they discover, making the day educational and scenic. The comments about guides like Tim and Jacob echo a common theme—that their enthusiasm and local insights elevate the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for active travelers who want a hands-on, immersive experience. It appeals to those who enjoy outdoor sports, wildlife, and scenic landscapes. Since children under 6 are not recommended, it’s more suitable for families with older kids or adults. Not ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed, seated activity—this is an adventure that demands participation and enthusiasm.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re looking for a full-day, active exploration of Maui’s south coast, combining ocean kayaking, snorkeling, and rainforest hiking, this tour hits the mark. It offers a fantastic mix of physical activity, stunning scenery, and wildlife encounters—especially the chance to see green sea turtles in their natural habitat.

The knowledgeable guides, safety focus, and well-organized itinerary make it a worthwhile investment for those wanting more than just a beach day. The fact that it’s all-inclusive with lunch, snacks, and gear adds convenience and value, especially considering that local guides often provide insights that make the experience richer.

While it may not suit travelers who prefer a more relaxed sightseeing day or are less comfortable with physical activity, it’s perfect for adventurous spirits eager to connect with Maui’s natural beauty on a personal level. Expect a memorable day that will leave you with stories of waterfalls, marine life, and lush rainforests—all in one exhilarating package.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour? No, you need to meet at Makena Landing Park, as hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of the package.

How long does the tour last? The experience runs approximately 7.5 hours, usually starting in the morning.

What should I bring? Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and sports shoes or sandals suitable for water and hiking.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 6 years old, mainly due to the active nature of the activities.

Are the guides knowledgeable? Yes, reviews highlight guides like Tim and Jacob, who are passionate, well-informed, and safety-conscious.

What wildlife might I see? Expect to see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, along with various fish during snorkeling.

Are all activities included? Yes, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and waterfall swimming are all part of the experience, with lunch and snacks provided.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the price for? The $261 fee covers all equipment, guides, transportation (if included), lunch, and snacks.

Is the weather a concern? Tours run in most weather conditions but may be altered if safety issues arise.

This adventure in South Maui offers a rare blend of physical activity, scenic beauty, and wildlife encounters. Perfect for active travelers eager to see Maui beyond the usual tourist spots — truly a day to remember.

You can check availability for your dates here: