South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel Experience

Discover Maui’s Marine Wonderland with the South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel Experience

If you’re heading to Maui and craving a taste of both adventure and nature, the South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel Experience might be just what you’re looking for. For around $119 per person, this 2.5-hour guided excursion takes you along Maui’s scenic southern coast, with options for a longer, more leisurely 4.5-hour trip that includes lunch. Led by friendly local guides, you’ll paddle single or tandem kayaks past Little Beach and Big Beach, and then slip into the water to snorkel in search of green sea turtles and colorful fish.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it is—no experience necessary—and how it combines a gentle paddle with impressive marine encounters. Plus, the guides are highly praised for their knowledge and patience, making this a family-friendly activity that appeals to all skill levels. The inclusion of quality snorkeling gear and light refreshments adds to its value, creating a well-rounded, memorable experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included—you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point. While the tour is limited to about 10 paddlers, ensuring a more intimate setting, it also means booking in advance is wise, especially during peak seasons. If you’re a nature lover, a first-time kayaker, or simply eager to enjoy Maui’s vibrant underwater life, this tour offers an authentic taste of the island’s marine beauty.

Key Points

• Accessible for all skill levels, with paddling instructions provided if needed
• Close encounters with marine life, including sea turtles and schools of fish
• Guides are knowledgeable and attentive, enhancing the experience
• Flexible options: 2.5-hour paddle or 4.5-hour with lunch
• Limited group size (max 10 paddlers) for a more personalized adventure
• Includes all necessary gear, making it easy to just show up and enjoy

A Deep Dive into the Maui Kayak and Snorkel Tour

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This experience begins at the meeting point at 5180 Makena Alanui, Kihei, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow adventurers. The tour typically lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes, with the longer version stretching to approximately 4.5 hours if you opt for the extra time that includes lunch. A key benefit of this tour is how it balances paddle time with snorkeling, giving you enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Your guides are there not just to show you the way but to ensure everyone feels comfortable, especially if you’re new to kayaking or snorkeling. They’ll give beachside safety and paddling instructions—important for beginners or those a little rusty—and then you’ll head out along the south Maui coastline, passing Little Beach and Big Beach—two of the most photogenic spots on the island.

As you paddle, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the shoreline, with chances to spot dolphins or whales (seasonal), and hear interesting commentary about Maui’s natural environment. Once you reach the snorkeling area, you’ll don your gear and peer beneath the surface. If you’re lucky, you’ll see sea turtles, which frequently appear in the protected waters of Makena Bay. The reef teems with colorful fish, coral, and other marine creatures, providing countless photo opportunities.

Marine Life Encounters: What Makes It Special?

The highlight for many is the chance to swim among green sea turtles, which are abundant here. As one reviewer notes, “Watching turtles up close was an unforgettable experience.” Guides are adept at locating these gentle creatures, which tend to surface regularly. Plus, the snorkel equipment is quality and included, so you can focus on the fun rather than gear worries.

The marine environment here is lively—schools of fish dart around coral, and the underwater scenery is just vibrant enough to make snorkelers smile. Several reviews highlight the guide’s ability to point out marine life—some even mention watching fish clean turtles, a fascinating behavior that adds a layer of excitement.

The Guides: Knowledge, Patience, and Personality

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledgeability and friendliness. Guides like Tyler, Maddie, and John are seen as the heart of this tour, sharing insights about marine life, Hawaiian culture, and the local environment. It’s clear that guides go beyond just leading the group—they take the time to make everyone feel safe and engaged, answer questions, and point out wildlife.

One reviewer raves, “Tyler was so knowledgeable about Maui and its sea life; he knew all the best snorkeling spots,” highlighting how guide expertise can transform the experience from good to exceptional. Many mention guides taking their time with each participant, ensuring even first-timers feel comfortable.

The Value of the Experience

At $118.84 per person, the tour offers a lot of value. It includes professional guides, high-quality kayaks, snorkeling gear, and light refreshments, which means you don’t need to worry about sourcing equipment or packing snacks. The longer 4.5-hour option with lunch further enhances the value, especially for those wanting a more relaxed, all-encompassing outing.

Considering the small group size (max 10 people), you’ll enjoy a more personalized adventure, with more time for individual wildlife encounters or questions. Many reviews mention how laid-back and unhurried the guides are, making the tour feel like a fun outing rather than a rushed activity.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

The main consideration is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. The tour does not involve strenuous paddling—it’s quite leisurely—so it’s suitable for most people, but if you’re expecting vigorous exercise, this isn’t that kind of paddling trip.

Weather can impact the experience, as with all outdoor water activities. If poor weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Also, booking in advance is advised, especially since the tour tends to be booked about 27 days ahead on average.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour suits a broad range of travelers—families, first-time kayakers, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet engaging way to experience Maui’s marine environment. If you enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides and want a safe, friendly environment to see turtles and fish, this is a good pick. The small group size makes it especially appealing for those who prefer a more personal touch.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel Experience offers an authentic and accessible way to enjoy Maui’s beautiful coastline and underwater world. With friendly guides, excellent gear, and ample wildlife sightings, it provides genuine value—especially for those eager to connect with nature without strenuous activity.

It’s ideal for families, beginners, or anyone wanting a relaxed, guided outing. The combination of scenic paddling and snorkeling with marine life makes it a highlight for many visitors, as reflected in the glowing reviews. While it requires some planning to get to the meeting point, the fun, learning, and natural beauty you’ll encounter make it well worth a little extra effort.

If you’re after a memorable, small-group adventure that offers a good mix of ease and excitement—plus the chance to swim alongside sea turtles—this tour is hard to beat in Maui.

FAQ

Do I need experience to join this tour?
No experience is necessary. Guides provide paddling instruction, making it friendly for beginners and those unsure about kayaking.

Are snorkeling masks and equipment included?
Yes, all snorkeling gear is provided as part of the tour, so you can just focus on enjoying the underwater scenery.

How long is the paddle portion?
The paddle is quite leisurely, especially in the 2.5-hour tour, with roughly 45 minutes of snorkeling time.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is included only if you choose the 4.5-hour tour option. The shorter tour does not include a meal.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to about 10 paddlers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at 5180 Makena Alanui, Kihei. Please plan transportation accordingly, as hotel pickup is not included.

This guided tour strikes a wonderful balance of adventure, education, and natural beauty. For anyone eager to see Maui’s underwater world without complicated logistics or strenuous activity, it’s a superb choice.