Clear Bottom Kayak and Snorkel Tour at Turtle Town, Makena

Maui’s Best Kept Secret: Clear Bottom Kayak and Snorkel at Turtle Town

Imagine paddling over Maui’s stunning reefs in a kayak you can see through, watching sea turtles, fish, and manta rays glide beneath you. For just $125 per person, this 3-hour guided tour takes you to the famed Turtle Town in Makena, where marine life is abundant and the scenery is breathtaking. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides—many of whom are veterans—this tour offers a relaxed yet exciting way to explore Maui’s underwater treasure trove.

Two things we especially love about this experience are the clarity of the kayaks, which lets you enjoy the sea floor without getting wet, and the diversity of marine life spotted right from your seat—sea turtles, colorful fish, and sometimes even passing whales or manta rays during the season. A possible consideration is the weight limit of 220 lbs per individual for the clear kayaks, which might be a factor for some travelers. Otherwise, this trip is most suited for those seeking a family-friendly adventure with easy access to Maui’s marine wonders.

If you’re comfortable in the water or even a little curious about trying snorkeling for the first time, this tour offers a fantastic, accessible introduction to Maui’s reefs. It’s especially perfect for families and first-timers who want to see marine life without the need for strenuous diving or complicated equipment. For those who prefer a more relaxed, less crowded experience with expert guides, this small-group tour is an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Small Group for Personal Service: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• All-ages Friendly: Suitable for kids from age 3 and up, with no prior kayaking or snorkeling experience necessary.
• Clear-Bottom Kayaks: Unique feature providing views of Maui’s reefs without getting wet.
• Seasonal Marine Sightings: Potential to see humpback whales in winter and manta rays during the year.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable about marine life and local history, adding depth to your adventure.
• Eco-conscious Approach: Encourages bringing reusable water bottles and aims to reduce plastic waste.

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting Point: Makena Landing Park

Your adventure begins at Makena Landing Park, a popular launching spot in Maui’s south shore. The tour is operated by Ohana Ocean Adventures, a family and Coast Guard veteran-owned business committed to providing safe, memorable experiences since 2017. The tour begins promptly at 7:00 am, taking advantage of the calm morning waters for the best paddling conditions.

The Safety Briefing and Gear

Once you arrive, your guides will give a comprehensive safety briefing. You’ll be fitted with snorkeling gear, and given instructions on how to paddle and snorkel if you’re new to either activity. Since no kayaking or snorkeling experience is required, the tour is designed to be accessible for everyone, from first-timers to seasoned water lovers.

Paddling Over Reefs in Clear Bottom Kayaks

The highlight of this trip is paddling over Maui’s pristine reefs in your transparent kayak. You’ll see the reef structures, sea turtles, and tropical fish beneath the hull, which provides a level of fascination and education that you won’t get with traditional kayaks. Reviews praising the “cool” glass-bottom feature highlight how this adds a whole new layer of enjoyment, especially for those who prefer to stay dry but still want to observe marine life.

Snorkeling at Turtle Town

After paddling, your guides will lead you to a designated snorkeling spot—Turtle Town—famous for its large sea turtle populations. Snorkeling is included, and many guests comment on how they saw a significant number of turtles—some counting up to 14 during their trip. As one reviewer noted, “Kyle’s sense of humor and knowledge made the trip enjoyable,” and guides are attentive and patient, making sure everyone feels safe and comfortable.

The Marine Life

Expect to see sea turtles up close, often swimming effortlessly alongside snorkelers. Guides frequently point out other creatures like urchins, starfish, and a variety of tropical fish, making the experience both fun and educational. During winter months, there’s also a chance to spot humpback whales in their sanctuary, adding a magical touch to the trip.

The Scenery and Views

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas of Haleakala, Molokini, and the west Maui mountains. These views are not just a backdrop—they enhance the overall experience, reminding you of how diverse and beautiful Maui’s landscape is, both above and below the water.

The Return and Post-Tour

The tour wraps up back at Makena Landing Park, with plenty of time to reflect on your marine adventure. Guides are often happy to take photos, and many reviews praise the “great customer service,” especially when guides like Curtis or Michael go above and beyond to assist with paddling or photos.

The Value of the Experience

At $125, this tour offers strong value for a highly personalized, safe, and engaging Maui activity. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, the small group size, and the expert guidance make it more than just a boat ride—they offer a genuine connection with Maui’s vibrant underwater world. The pre-packaged snacks and bottled water are thoughtful touches, especially during an active morning, but travelers are encouraged to bring reusable bottles to reduce waste.

While the weight limit of 220 lbs per person might be a restriction for some, the company does have tandem kayaks and larger single kayaks for guests over that limit, ensuring everyone can participate safely. The tour’s timing—early morning—means calmer seas and better visibility, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, first-time snorkelers, and those seeking a relaxed, scenic adventure. If you love wildlife and want a gentle but immersive introduction to Maui’s reefs, this is perfect. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer smaller groups and personalized attention.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This Maui kayak and snorkel trip with Ohana Ocean Adventures delivers what it promises—an up-close look at marine life in a safe, friendly environment. The fact that guides are knowledgeable about not just marine animals but also Hawaiian history enriches the experience, making it educational as well as fun. The small group size and clear kayaks provide a more intimate connection to Maui’s underwater world, and the chance to see multiple turtles and tropical fish makes it a memorable outing.

If you’re seeking an activity that combines gentle paddling, snorkeling, and spectacular scenery without breaking the bank, this tour checks all those boxes. Plus, the consistent praise from past travelers underscores its reliability and appeal. It’s a great way to spend part of your Maui vacation—relaxed, engaging, and full of natural beauty.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for ages 3 and above, making it a family-friendly option. No prior kayaking or snorkeling experience is required.

What should I bring with me?
While snacks and bottled water are provided, travelers are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles to help reduce plastic waste. It’s also wise to wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection.

Are the kayaks really see-through?
Yes, the kayaks are clear-bottom, allowing you to view the reef and marine life beneath you without getting wet, which is especially fun for non-swimmers or those who prefer staying dry.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and better interaction with guides.

Can I snorkel if I don’t want to kayak?
While the tour is centered around kayaking, snorkeling is included in the trip. If you prefer to snorkel without paddling, the guides will assist you in enjoying the underwater sights safely.

This small-group, family-friendly Maui tour offers a delightful blend of scenic paddling and underwater discovery. With excellent reviews, seasoned guides, and a focus on authentic experiences, it’s a fine choice for anyone wanting to see Maui’s marine life up close—without the fuss or complexity.