Turtle Reef Kayak Tour of Makena, Maui

The Turtle Reef Kayak Tour in Makena, Maui, provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the incredible marine life of the Hawaiian Islands. Gliding across the crystal-clear waters, adventurers can spot the elusive and endangered Hawaiian Green sea turtles as they gracefully navigate the vibrant coral reef. With expert guidance and top-notch equipment, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that immerses participants in the beauty and wonder of the island’s underwater realm. But the journey has just begun, as there’s much more to discover about this exceptional adventure.

Key Points

• This guided kayak tour offers the opportunity to explore the underwater world and encounter endangered Hawaiian Green sea turtles off the south side of Maui.
• The tour has a 95% recommendation rate from 314 reviews and has been awarded a Badge of Excellence.
• The tour includes snorkeling equipment, personal flotation devices, light refreshments, and hotel pickup and drop-off for a convenient and comfortable experience.
• The tour is offered at two different departure times, with the 7:15 AM tour recommended for ideal weather, active reef life, and better visibility.
• The tour is led by experienced, CPR-certified guides who ensure a safe and engaging experience, with a focus on safety protocols and personalized attention.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Turtle Reef Kayak Tour of Makena, Maui offers an exceptional opportunity for visitors to explore the stunning underwater world off the south side of the island.

With 314 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, this tour boasts a Badge of Excellence. Paddlers aged 5 and up can enjoy close encounters with marine life, including endangered Hawaiian Green sea turtles, while taking in the breathtaking views of Haleakala.

The guided tour includes snorkeling, quality equipment, and light refreshments. Experienced, CPR-certified guides provide a safe and engaging experience for both families and individual travelers.

Inclusions and Meeting Details

The Turtle Reef Kayak Tour of Makena, Maui includes a comprehensive set of offerings for participants.

Guided beach instructions and a safety talk prepare guests for the adventure. The tour features guide-assisted launches and landings, ensuring a smooth experience.

High-quality snorkel equipment, personal flotation devices, and dry bags are provided. Light refreshments help fuel the journey.

Guests have access to quality touring kayaks, both singles and doubles. The tour is led by CPR and First Aid certified guides with extensive ocean experience.

Local taxes and gratuities are included, and hotel pickup and drop-off are provided for convenience.

Tour Schedule and Recommendations

The Turtle Reef Kayak Tour offers two departure times – a 7:15 AM tour for guests aged 5 and up, and a 10:30 AM tour for those 16 and older.

The 7:15 AM tour provides ideal weather conditions, active reef life, and better visibility.

With a maximum of 10 travelers per group, the tours offer personalized experiences and intimate encounters with marine life.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, and prices start at $121 per person.

Kayaking and snorkeling experience is recommended, especially for families and beginners, to fully enjoy this adventure.

Traveler Experiences and Reviews

Guides are consistently praised for their extensive knowledge, exceptional safety protocols, and ability to provide engaging experiences on the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour.

Travelers commonly report seeing numerous turtles, fish, and even whales during their tours. Feedback highlights the balance of adventure and security maintained by the guides, enabling personal connections with the marine life.

Small group sizes enhance these intimate interactions, allowing participants to fully enjoy the tropical underwater world.

Recommendations often suggest requesting specific guides known for their exceptional service and ability to create unforgettable memories.

Preparing for the Adventure

Although the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour promises an unforgettable adventure, it’s important for participants to properly prepare for the experience.

Guests should wear comfortable, quick-drying clothing and sturdy water shoes. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also recommended to protect against the Maui sun. Staying hydrated is crucial, so bringing a water bottle is essential.

For those who wear prescription glasses or contacts, waterproof cases or goggles are highly suggested. Participants should also be comfortable with basic swimming and paddling skills.

With the right preparation, travelers can fully enjoy the tour’s stunning scenery and wildlife encounters.

Exploring the Turtle Reef

Once participants have their gear and are ready to embark, the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour truly comes alive.

Paddling through the crystal-clear waters, guests are immersed in Maui’s underwater wonderland. The tour offers the chance to:

• Spot elusive Hawaiian green sea turtles gliding effortlessly through the reef
• Observe a vibrant array of tropical fish, from colorful parrotfish to graceful angelfish
• Peer into the depths, catching glimpses of the reef’s intricate coral formations
• Feel a sense of wonder and connection to the marine ecosystem.

With the guidance of experienced, knowledgeable instructors, the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to explore Maui’s natural splendor.

Capturing Memorable Moments

As visitors paddle through the shimmering waters, the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to capture unforgettable moments.

With camera in hand, guests can immortalize close encounters with the graceful Hawaiian green sea turtles, their gentle movements and curious expressions etched forever.

The vibrant coral reefs and schools of tropical fish offer stunning backdrops, while the majestic Haleakala volcano provides a breathtaking panoramic view.

Knowledgeable guides ensure guests make the most of this photogenic adventure, offering tips and sharing insights to help create lasting memories of their Maui experience.

Safety Considerations and Precautions

Safety is paramount on the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour. Guides are CPR and First Aid certified, ensuring participants’ well-being.

Mandatory safety talks provide detailed instructions on proper kayaking and snorkeling techniques, as well as emergency procedures. The tour’s small group size allows for personalized attention and monitoring.

Participants are required to wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) at all times while on the water, providing an extra layer of security. The tour’s launch and landing locations are carefully chosen to minimize risks and maximize enjoyment.

Safety is the top priority, allowing travelers to focus on the incredible marine life encounters.

• CPR and First Aid certified guides
• Mandatory safety talks and instructions
• Small group size for personalized attention
• Mandatory use of personal flotation devices (PFDs)
• Carefully selected launch and landing locations

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

While guests are welcome to bring their own snorkeling equipment, the tour provider recommends using the quality snorkel gear they provide. This ensures proper fit and function, enhancing the overall safety and enjoyment of the snorkeling experience.

What Is the Maximum Weight Limit for the Kayaks?

The tour operator does not specify a maximum weight limit for the kayaks. However, they do state that singles and doubles are available, so they can accommodate participants of various sizes. Guests should contact the operator for more details on kayak capacity.

Do We Need to Purchase Photos or Videos Separately?

Photos and videos aren’t automatically included, but they can be purchased separately. The tour provider offers a variety of photo and video packages to capture your kayaking and snorkeling experiences.

Can We Stop for Lunch or a Break During the Tour?

The tour does not include a dedicated lunch or break stop. However, light refreshments are provided, and guests can choose to stop and rest on beaches during the kayaking portion of the experience if desired.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

While the standard tour duration is 1.5-2 hours, some providers may offer an option to extend the experience. Guests can inquire about upgrading to a longer excursion that includes additional time for activities like snorkeling or exploring the reef in more depth.

The Sum Up

The Turtle Reef Kayak Tour in Makena, Maui, offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the vibrant underwater world and encounter endangered Hawaiian Green sea turtles. With high-quality equipment, expert guidance, and stunning scenery, this tour provides a safe and engaging experience for small groups. Travelers can expect personalized attention, diverse marine life, and the chance to capture memorable moments, making it a must-try adventure on the island.