Turtle Reef Kayak Tour of Makena, Maui

Nestled along the stunning southern coastline of Maui, the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour in Makena offers an incredible opportunity to witness the graceful movements of endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural habitat. Guided by knowledgeable and safety-conscious professionals, this excursion promises breathtaking views of the Haleakala volcano and a chance to explore the area’s diverse marine life. Whether you prefer to paddle, swim, or snorkel, the tour caters to various preferences, ensuring a memorable experience for all. As you prepare to embark on this remarkable adventure, the anticipation of encountering these gentle giants and discovering the wonders of the Makena coastline should surely have you eager to learn more.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Maui.

Key Points

• The Turtle Reef Kayak Tour offers close encounters with endangered Hawaiian Green sea turtles in their natural habitat near Makena, Maui.
• The tour provides stunning views of the Haleakala volcano and optional swimming or snorkeling to observe the diverse marine life.
• Knowledgeable and CPR-certified guides lead the tour, ensuring a safe and memorable experience for all participants.
• The tour includes beach instructions, quality snorkel equipment, and light refreshments, making it a comprehensive and convenient experience.
• The tour is available in two timings, with the 7:15am option offering better weather conditions and visibility.

Overview of the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour

What’s the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour of Makena, Maui?

It’s an exciting kayaking tour that allows visitors to casually paddle the turquoise waters above the Turtle Reef, an area known as the home of the endangered Hawaiian Green sea turtle.

Offered by a tour operator, the tour provides guests with a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

During the tour, participants won’t only have a close encounter with the marine life, but they’ll also be treated to stunning views of the Haleakala volcano.

The tour includes various inclusions, such as beach instructions, safety talks, quality snorkel equipment, and light refreshments, ensuring a memorable and safe experience for all.

Highlights of the Turtle Reef Experience

One of the main highlights of the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour is the opportunity for close encounters with the endangered Hawaiian Green sea turtles that call this area home. Participants can expect to observe these magnificent creatures as they casually paddle the turquoise waters above the reef.

Along With the turtle sightings, the tour also offers stunning views of the Haleakala volcano in the distance. For those interested, there’s an optional swimming or snorkeling adventure, allowing for an even closer look at the vibrant marine life.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable and CPR-certified guides provide insightful commentary, ensuring a truly memorable and educational experience on the waters of Makena.

Inclusions in the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour

The Turtle Reef Kayak Tour includes a beach instructions and safety talk, guide-assisted launch and landings, quality snorkel equipment, PFD, and dry bag if needed, light refreshments, and top-of-the-line touring kayaks – singles and doubles available.

Plus, the tour is led by CPR and first aid certified guides with extensive ocean experience, and local taxes are covered. Participants can look forward to a close encounter with endangered green sea turtles, stunning views of Haleakala volcano, and an optional swimming or snorkeling adventure.

With a maximum capacity of 10 travelers, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience. The early 7:15am tour offers ideal weather conditions and better visibility for an unforgettable kayaking and snorkeling adventure in Makena, Maui.

Meeting Point and Tour Duration

The tour meets at Makena Landing, providing a convenient starting point for the 2.5-hour kayak adventure. Once participants arrive, the guide will conduct a safety briefing and provide assistance with launching the kayaks.

Meeting Point	Tour Duration
Makena Landing	2.5 hours

The tour explores the turquoise waters above Turtle Reef, offering ample opportunities to spot the endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles. Depending on the time of the tour, participants may enjoy ideal weather conditions and better visibility. Whether you choose the 7:15am or 10:30am departure, this excursion promises an unforgettable glimpse into the marine life of Makena.

Tour Capacity and Age Restrictions

According to the tour details, a maximum of 10 travelers can participate in each Turtle Reef Kayak Tour of Makena, Maui.

The tours have age restrictions – the 7:15am tour is open to travelers aged 5 and above, while the 10:30am tour is restricted to those 16 and older.

This ensures the safety and enjoyment of all participants, as younger children may require more supervision during the tour.

The tour capacity is kept small to provide a more intimate and personalized experience for guests.

Confirmation and Accessibility Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour of Makena, Maui.

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.

Infant seats are available for those who need them, and most travelers can participate in the tour.

The paddling distance is approximately 1.5 to 2.0 miles, and the 7:15am tour offers ideal weather conditions and better visibility.

Participants can expect a close encounter with marine life, including the endangered Hawaiian Green sea turtle, as well as stunning views of the Haleakala volcano.

The tour includes a guide-assisted launch and landing, quality snorkel equipment, PFD, and dry bag if needed, along with light refreshments.

Paddling Distance and Tour Timings

The tour covers a paddling distance of approximately 1.5 to 2.0 miles, offering participants the opportunity to casually explore the turquoise waters above Turtle Reef.

Two tour times are available: a 7:15am departure, which provides ideal weather conditions and better visibility, and a 10:30am tour for those with a later start in mind.

The 7:15am tour is ideal for catching the best conditions, while the 10:30am option caters to those who prefer a more leisurely start to their day.

Regardless of the time chosen, paddlers can expect a scenic and educational kayaking experience in the stunning Makena area, complete with the chance to spot the endangered Hawaiian Green sea turtle.

Additional Details About the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour

The Turtle Reef Kayak Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Makena coastline and encounter the endangered Hawaiian Green sea turtle in its natural habitat.

Guided by experienced, CPR and first aid certified professionals, participants can expect a leisurely paddling experience while taking in breathtaking views of the Haleakala volcano.

The tour includes:

• Quality snorkel equipment, PFDs, and dry bags, ensuring a comfortable and safe adventure
• Light refreshments to keep you energized during the tour
• Confirmation received at the time of booking, providing peace of mind and convenience

With a maximum capacity of 10 travelers, the Turtle Reef Kayak Tour provides an intimate and personalized experience, making it the perfect way to discover the beauty and wildlife of Makena, Maui.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cancel or Reschedule the Tour?

Yes, customers can typically cancel or reschedule tours, though policies may vary. It’s best to check with the tour operator’s cancellation and rebooking policies prior to booking to understand the options available.

What Should I Bring or Wear for the Tour?

Guests should wear swimsuits, lightweight, quick-drying clothing, and water shoes. Bring a towel, sunscreen, and any personal items they’ll need for the day. The tour provides life jackets, snorkel gear, and light refreshments.

How Experienced Do I Need to Be for the Kayaking?

The experience level needed for this kayaking tour is beginner to intermediate. No prior kayaking experience is required, as the guides provide thorough instructions and assist with launching and landing. They’ll accommodate first-time kayakers comfortably.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees During the Tour?

The tour includes all necessary equipment and fees. There are no additional costs or fees during the guided kayak and snorkel adventure. Participants can enjoy the activity without worrying about extra charges.

What Happens if the Weather Is Unfavorable on the Day of the Tour?

If the weather is unfavorable on the day of the tour, the operator may cancel or reschedule it based on safety concerns. They’ll notify participants ahead of time and work to accommodate them on an alternate date.

Recap

The Turtle Reef Kayak Tour in Makena, Maui, is an exceptional opportunity to encounter endangered Hawaiian Green sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Offering stunning views of Haleakala volcano and the chance to explore diverse marine life, the tour is led by knowledgeable, CPR-certified guides, ensuring a memorable and safe experience.

With quality equipment, light refreshments, and flexible scheduling, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts visiting Maui.