Imagine paddling over pristine coral reefs, watching vibrant marine life through a glass-bottom kayak, and then slipping into the water to snorkel alongside turtles, manta rays, and even whales in winter. That’s exactly what the Turtle Town, Makena tour promises—and, based on plentiful glowing reviews, it tends to deliver in a big way. We’ve gathered detailed insights into this experience to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the clarity of the kayaks offers a unique perspective on Maui’s underwater world without even getting wet. Second, the small group setup ensures personalized attention from guides, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers. Third, the diverse marine sightings—from turtles to whales—adds an element of surprise to every trip. That said, one consideration is that this experience is weather-dependent; calm conditions are best for both paddling and snorkeling, so some days might not be optimal.
This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a combination of adventure and education in a relaxed setting. If you’re eager to see Maui’s marine life with knowledgeable guides and enjoy breathtaking views of Haleakala and neighboring islands, this trip is worth considering. It’s also suitable for non-swimmers, thanks to the kayak’s clear bottom and guided snorkeling, making it accessible to most.
Good To Know
- Clear Bottom Kayak offers a unique underwater view without needing to snorkel immediately.
- Small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures personalized attention.
- Marine life sightings include turtles, manta rays, eels, octopus, and in winter, whales.
- Excellent value for a 3-hour guided tour with all equipment included.
- Guides like Curtis and Kyle are praised for their professionalism, knowledge, and friendly attitude.
- Ideal for non-swimmers or those with back problems, as it provides a relaxed way to experience marine life.
Introduction: Setting the Scene for Your Maui Marine Adventure
If you’re seeking an up-close look at Maui’s underwater gems without the hassle of full-on scuba gear, this guided clear bottom kayak and snorkel tour offers a fantastic solution. We’re impressed by the way it combines comfort, education, and adventure—giving you a taste of the marine world in just three hours.
What we love about this experience is how it caters to different comfort levels. Whether you’re confident in the water or a bit hesitant, the clear-bottom kayak provides a window into the ocean’s vibrant life. Plus, the seasoned guides (notably Curtis and Kyle) keep everything safe, fun, and informative. And who wouldn’t love the chance to see Maui’s famous turtles swim right alongside you?
One potential downside is that the tour’s success depends on weather conditions—calm seas make for better visibility and paddling. So if your trip aligns with good weather, you’ll likely have a memorable outing. It’s especially appealing for those who want an authentic, small-group experience with plenty of opportunities to see Maui’s marine inhabitants.
If that sounds like your kind of adventure, this tour is perfect for nature lovers, snorkelers, and anyone wanting a relaxing yet exhilarating day on the water.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Wailea Makena.
What to Expect From this Maui Marine Tour
The journey begins early in the morning, with check-in at 7:00 am at Turtle Town, Makena. Once you arrive at the parking area—equipped with toilets and showers—you’ll walk a short, scenic 3-minute path to meet your guides, who will be waiting at the navy blue Ford truck. The tour group is capped at 10 people, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience.
Paddle over Maui’s Pristine Reefs
Once aboard your clear-bottom kayak, you’ll gently glide over the shallow, healthy reefs that teem with marine life. The transparent hull offers a captivating view of the reef ecosystem beneath you, turning your paddle into a kind of floating aquarium. Guides like Curtis and Kyle are well-versed in marine biology and local history, so they’ll share fascinating tidbits along the way.
Expect calm waters in the early morning, which are ideal for beginners or those who prefer a leisurely paddle. The views of Haleakala volcano, the West Maui Mountains, and surrounding islands make for a stunning backdrop during your excursion.
Snorkeling with Marine Life
After about an hour of paddling, you’ll have the chance to ditch the kayak and snorkel at prime spots. All snorkel gear, including defogging supplies, is provided, and guides ensure everyone feels comfortable. Reviewers often highlight how guides like Curtis and Kyle make the experience approachable—even for non-swimmers, thanks to the guided support.
The marine life sightings are often impressive. Guests frequently share stories of swimming alongside sea turtles, which are common in this protected area. Other common encounters include manta rays, eels, and octopuses. In the winter months, whale sightings from the water are a significant bonus, providing an unforgettable spectacle.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyVisiting Turtle Town and Lava Fingers
The tour includes a visit to Turtle Town, a renowned snorkel site with shallow waters perfect for spotting green turtles. One guest mentioned, “swimming with turtles was of course the highlight,” giving an authentic sense of the experience.
You’ll also paddle over ancient lava formations, sometimes called “lava fingers,” which are over 500 years old. These geological features add to the scenic beauty and provide additional areas for marine creatures to thrive.
Including Flexibility and Comfort
The tour is designed with flexibility in mind. There’s an optional snorkel segment included in the price, and the guides are attentive, always keeping an eye on safety. Guests have appreciated how relaxed the pace is, with plenty of time to enjoy the underwater sights.
What’s Included and What to Bring
For $125 per person, you get a guided kayak and snorkeling experience, with all necessary equipment, life jackets, and a vegan/gluten-free granola bar. Water is provided, but it’s recommended to bring sun protection—think hats, biodegradable sunscreen, and towels. You’ll also want swimwear and shoes suitable for walking in the sand and on uneven terrain.
Note: The tour operates in small groups with a maximum of 10 participants, which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds. Non-swimmers are welcome, making this accessible for most.
The Guides: Knowledgeable and Friendly
From reviews, it’s clear that Curtis and Kyle are more than just professional guides—they’re passionate ambassadors for Maui’s marine environment. Guests mention Curtis as “explaining a lot and always keeping an eye on everyone,” which helps beginners feel more secure. Kyle’s assistance with photos and gentle encouragement earned him praise, too.
Their approach enhances the experience beyond just a scenic paddle—they foster curiosity and respect for the ocean’s inhabitants. This connection often leads to better wildlife sightings, as guides know where to look and how to approach sensitive species like turtles and rays.
The Value for Money
At $125, this tour offers good bang for your buck. It combines guided paddling, snorkeling, and wildlife encounters in a manageable 3-hour window—perfect for travelers on a busy schedule. Reviews consistently highlight the quality of the guides and the amazing marine sightings as key reasons it’s worth the price.
Compared to other water-based excursions, this experience’s small group size and inclusion of all equipment provide a more intimate and convenient outing. The fact that you get to see whales in winter and enjoy scenic vistas of Maui’s volcanic landscape adds further value.
Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?
This tour is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a relaxed, engaging way to experience Maui’s marine environment. It’s accessible even for those who don’t swim well, thanks to the guided support and the view-through kayaks. Nature lovers who enjoy small groups and personalized attention will find this experience particularly rewarding.
It’s especially suitable for travelers seeking instagram-worthy moments, with plenty of opportunities for photos—both of marine life and scenic vistas. And with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, it offers some flexibility for last-minute plans.
The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?
This Maui tour offers a fantastic blend of comfort, adventure, and education. You’ll love the way the clear bottom kayak provides an immersive underwater view, the guides’ friendly expertise, and the chance to see iconic marine animals like turtles and whales. It’s a no-fuss, well-organized outing that emphasizes safety, small group intimacy, and authentic encounters with nature.
If you’re looking for a memorable, family-friendly activity that combines scenic paddling and snorkeling, this tour hits the mark. It’s also perfect for travelers who want to experience Maui’s vibrant marine ecosystem without the hassle of heavy equipment or advanced skills. Plus, the stunning views of Haleakala and neighboring islands make it a comprehensive visual treat.
This experience offers excellent value for the price, especially considering the high quality of guides and the variety of marine life you’re likely to see. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a day to remember on your Maui trip, it’s a worthwhile choice.
FAQ
Is hotel pick-up and drop-off included?
No, the tour does not include hotel transportation. You’ll need to meet at the designated parking area at Turtle Town, Makena.
What time does the tour start?
Check-in begins at 7:00 am, with the tour usually taking place in the morning to take advantage of calmer waters.
Can non-swimmers participate?
Yes, non-swimmers are welcome. The clear-bottom kayak allows you to see marine life without needing to snorkel immediately.
What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and shoes suitable for walking and water activities.
Is there a weight limit for the kayaks?
Yes, individual kayaks have a weight limit of 220 lbs, but tandem kayaks can accommodate up to 420 lbs combined. Guests are weighed at check-in to ensure safety.
How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts about 3 hours, including paddling and snorkeling time.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, all snorkeling gear, including masks, fins, and defogger, are included in the tour price.
Will we see whales?
Possibly, as the tour takes place within a humpback whale sanctuary. Winter months are the best time for whale sightings.
This guided tour at Turtle Town delivers a genuine Maui adventure—rich in marine encounters, scenic beauty, and expert guidance. It’s a meaningful way to experience the island’s underwater world without the need for advanced skills, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking an authentic yet comfortable ocean experience.
You can check if your dates are available here: