Waterfall Hike and Kayak Snorkel & Paddle from Makena

Waterfall Hike and Kayak Snorkel & Paddle from Makena offers an engaging way to explore the best of Maui’s coast and interior in one day. For $270.20 per person, you’ll spend about six hours immersed in the island’s natural beauty, paddling along the historic Makena coastline, snorkeling with sea turtles, and hiking through ancient Hawaiian sites. Guided by knowledgeable and enthusiastic local guides, this tour promises a blend of sea and land adventures, perfect for those eager to see Maui from multiple angles.

Two features stand out immediately: first, the opportunity to swim with sea turtles in Makena Bay, a true highlight for marine lovers, and second, the chance to walk through the remnants of Old Hawaii—an authentic glimpse into the island’s past. The tour also offers a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed, with enough time to enjoy each activity. A slight consideration? The tour’s duration and activity levels mean you should be ready for a full, active day. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Maui’s diverse environment, rather than a brief, surface-level visit.

Who will love this? If you’re someone who appreciates outdoor adventures paired with cultural insights, and you enjoy seeing wildlife up close, this tour is a natural fit. Families with children as young as six, small groups, and those curious about Hawaiian history will find this both educational and fun.

Key Points

• Diverse Activities: Combines kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking, appealing to those who want variety.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness and extensive knowledge about the island’s history and environment.
• Marine Encounters: Close-up views of sea turtles and tropical fish make snorkeling a highlight.
• Cultural Connection: Guided hikes explore ancient Hawaiian sites, adding depth to the experience.
• Comfort & Safety: Quality equipment, safety instructions, and necessary gear provided.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 8) ensure a personalized, engaging experience.

A Deep Dive into the Waterfall Hike and Kayak Adventure

Starting Point and Logistics

You’ll meet bright and early at Makena Landing Park at 7:15 am, a location on Maui’s southern coast known for its dramatic volcanic coastline. The tour ends back at the same spot, so no need to worry about transportation logistics once you’re there. The group size is limited to eight, which means more personalized attention from guides and fewer crowds—ideal for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

Although the activity doesn’t include hotel pickup, the starting point is straightforward to reach if you’re staying nearby in Kihei or Wailea. The tour runs weather permitting, so a clear morning will enhance your experience.

Paddling Along Maui’s Historic Coast

Your day kicks off with professional instruction on paddling techniques and safety. We loved the way guides like Justin made first-timers feel comfortable, emphasizing that kayaking is accessible even for beginners. The ocean tour takes you along Makena’s rugged coastline, which is rich with volcanic formations and remnants of ancient villages.

As you paddle, guides share stories about early explorers and their influence on Native Hawaiian communities. You’ll likely spot Hawaiian Green sea turtles surfacing for air—a crowd favorite, as the reviews describe swimming with “several sea turtles” as “amazing.” The quality, late-model kayaks are easy to handle and stable, making this part of the tour enjoyable whether you’re experienced or new to kayaking.

Snorkeling in Makena Bay

After about 2.5 hours of paddling, your group will gather in a protected cove perfect for snorkeling. Here, you’ll slip into the water with your provided gear to experience the vibrant marine life. The clear waters and calm conditions make it a safe yet exhilarating environment for all ages, starting from six years old.

Participants frequently mention the abundance of sea turtles and colorful schools of tropical fish. As one reviewer put it, guides like Cody helped them “swim with sea turtles,” which was a highlight of their trip. The snorkel time is approximately 45 minutes, enough to observe marine life without feeling rushed.

Cultural and Nature Hike

Post-water fun, it’s time for a change of scenery. You’ll switch from water to land with a guided hike through Old Hawaii, exploring remnants of Maui’s last lava flow from 220 years ago. This part of the tour is appreciated for its informative guides, like Dawn, who provided detailed insights into local plants and Hawaiian history.

The hike covers about 2.5 miles on level terrain, traversing sites dotted with ancient ruins, Hawaiian heiau (temples), and lush flora. The guide may show you some “amazing spots,” as one reviewer noted, and even teach about traditional uses of native plants. The experience is both educational and scenic, with some describing it as “fabulous,” especially when they saw waterfalls and learned local stories.

The Value of Small Group & Personal Attention

With a maximum of 8 participants, the guides can tailor the experience. This small-group setting enhances safety, especially during water activities, and ensures everyone gets attention and personalized explanations. Many reviews praise guides for their friendliness and expertise, making the entire day feel relaxed and informative.

Food and Amenities

Included are light refreshments and lunch, often enjoyed sitting by a waterfall or along the coast. The food is described as “excellent,” providing enough energy to keep going without feeling weighed down. The tour also provides all necessary gear—snorkeling equipment, backpacks, rain ponchos, and insect repellent—so travelers don’t have to worry about bringing anything special.

Considerations and Tips

While most travelers find the tour well-balanced, some mention that both the kayaking and hiking segments could be a bit on the short side. If you’re craving a longer day or more intense activity, this might feel brief for your taste. Also, keep in mind that the tour is weather-dependent, and a sudden change could impact your plans—though guides work hard to be flexible.

The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, which is worth noting if you’re staying in more remote parts of Maui. Also, the walking involves traversing some rocky and possibly muddy areas, so good footwear and a sense of adventure are recommended.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides

What truly makes this tour shine are the guides. Many reviews mention guides like Cody, Tim, Dawn, and Justin by name, describing them as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. They don’t just lead activities—they share stories, point out wildlife, and ensure everyone feels safe and engaged. This personal touch makes the experience memorable and authentic.

The stunning scenery—from volcanic coastlines to lush waterfalls and ancient sites—combines seamlessly with the stories and insights shared along the way. Such moments help you understand the deep connection Hawaiians have with their land and sea, enriching your visit in a way a typical day at the beach might not.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $270.20, this tour is priced competitively considering the inclusion of multiple activities, professional guides, gear, and meals. When you factor in the variety—kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking—you’re essentially getting a full day of diverse experiences that would cost more if booked separately.

The reviews consistently highlight the good value for money, especially given the small group sizes and quality guides. Many travelers felt that the experience exceeded their expectations, especially when they saw the amount of marine life or learned about Hawaiian culture in such an engaging way.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a mixture of water and land adventure, as well as those interested in cultural history. Small groups and attentive guides make it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a personalized experience. If you love marine wildlife, historical sites, and scenic hikes, you’ll find this tour ticks all boxes.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely, less physically demanding day or are limited by time, you might consider whether the six-hour commitment matches your pace. Also, if you’re visiting during uncertain weather, be prepared for potential rescheduling.

In essence, this Waterfall Hike and Kayak Snorkel & Paddle from Makena offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Maui’s natural and cultural treasures, delivered by guides who genuinely care about sharing their island with visitors.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at Makena Landing Park. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What’s the minimum age for participants?
The tour is suitable for travelers as young as six years old, making it family-friendly.

How long is the kayaking part?
The paddling covers approximately 2 miles along the coastline, with guides providing safety instructions and support.

How much snorkeling is included?
You’ll have about 45 minutes in the water, swimming in a protected cove with the chance to see sea turtles and tropical fish.

What should I bring on the hike?
The tour provides backpacks, rain ponchos, and insect repellent, but you might find it helpful to wear sturdy shoes suitable for rocky terrain.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.

This tour offers a strong balance of adventure, education, and scenic beauty, making it a valuable choice for active travelers wanting to see Maui’s coast and culture in one memorable day.