Maui Clear Kayak and Snorkel Tour: Swim with turtles (Makena)
Recommended by 98% of travelers
Maui, USA
- 3 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
Why travelers loved this
·
Explore our promoted experiences
Overview
Most Maui snorkeling tours use boats with limited visibility of what's directly beneath, and shore-based snorkeling at Turtle Town requires walking gear over loose rock to reach the water. This small-group tour uses clear-bottom kayaks to paddle over the reef with views of the water below, with snorkeling gear included for in-water sessions among the turtles, manta rays, and tropical fish at the reef.
- Refuel with included snacks and water
- Clear-bottom kayak allows you to view marine life from a unique vantage point
- No need to hire gear with kayaks and snorkeling equipment included
- Learn about the marine life and history of Maui from your local guide
What's Included
- SnacksSnacks are pre-packaged. Vegan, gluten-free options available
- Bottled waterSingle-use water available. However we encourage you to assist us in reducing plastic by bringing your own reuseable water bottle.
- Use of Snorkeling equipmentUse of Snorkelling equipment
- Experienced Tour Guide
- Life jacket
- Photo packages available at additional cost on day of tour
- Gratuities
- Private transportation
- Lunch
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- 5083 Makena Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, USA
Meet up is at Makena Landing Park. We will text your cell phone with a pinned google map location the day before the tour. Our company truck is a navy blue ford with clear kayak stickers on both sides. If you need to catch an Uber then book the day before (not the morning of).
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Operating hours.7:00 am
Itinerary
1
Makena Landing Park
3 hours • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 1 day of travel. In this case confirmation will be received as soon as possible, subject to availability
- Not wheelchair accessible
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travelers can participate
- Individual weight limit is strictly 220 lbs due to the nature of our clear kayaks. If someone in your group weighs over 220 lbs then please contact us and we can reserve a single regular kayak with a weight limit of 290 lbs for them. We have two of these available. The weight limit is for your own safety. It is company policy for our tour guides to weigh each individual using scales at the meeting location on the day of the tour. If you report your weight incorrectly and then weigh over the limit on the day then we will not be able to accommodate you and you will receive no refund. Please contact us if you have questions about weight distribution before booking.
- Weight limit for tandem kayak is 420 lbs *Individual weight limit of 220 lbs still applies. You will automatically be assigned a tandem kayak for a booking of 2 adults. We are a small company and only have a limited number of clear kayaks for each tour.
- If you have ANY medical conditions we need to be made aware of for your safety (including if you are pregnant) or if you have dietary restrictions then please advise us of this via email.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Sara_K
Kyle was an amazing guide! Phenomenal experience with the clear kayaks. Beautiful views, Kyle was knowledgeable about the types of fish and the area. Stellar photos by Kyle also. Highly recommend for any group and any age. Great small group activity!
Reviews
4.9
based on 603 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Helen_W, Jul 2026
Kyle was very considerate and attentive! We really appreciated him! So many turtles to see, great experience.
Ximena_S, Jun 2026
It was great! Kyle and Curtis (sorry if I have his name wrong) were attentive and super nice. My 9yo is still talking about how kind Kyle was to her, we got to swim with at least 8 turtles, and the reef is spectacular
Luke_M, Jun 2026
Curtis was amazing!! He really knew all of the different fish, snorkeling spots, and Hawaiian history very well. He did a great job guiding us. We would definitely recommend this company and Curtis!
Britney_T, Jun 2026
Very fun! Curtis was a great guide and we got to see so many turtles! It was also amazing to see all of the reefs through the bottom of the kayak. I highly recommend you do this if you get a chance!
Lily_T, Jun 2026
Marc was an incredible guide! He was friendly, knowledgeable, fun and a great photographer. We had the best time. The morning couldn't have been more perfect.
Angel_S, Jun 2026
We had an absolutely incredible kayaking and snorkeling excursion in Maui! The scenery was breathtaking, the water was crystal clear, and the marine life was amazing to see up close. While the experience itself was fantastic, our guide Mark truly made the day unforgettable.
Mark brought so much energy, positivity, and enthusiasm from start to finish. He explained everything clearly and simply, making everyone feel comfortable and confident, regardless of experience level. He was extremely knowledgeable about Maui and shared interesting information about the island throughout the tour. He was also incredibly personable and easy to talk to, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable.
One of the highlights was when Mark got in the water with us and dove down to retrieve a sea urchin from the ocean floor so we could safely see and hold one up close. He also took photos throughout the excursion, allowing us to fully enjoy the experience while still capturing great memories. On top of that, he recommended some amazing local restaurants and sweet treat spots that we ended up loving.
You can tell Mark genuinely loves what he does and takes great pride in sharing the beauty of his home island with visitors. His excitement was contagious and elevated an already beautiful experience into something truly special. We would highly recommend this excursion to anyone visiting Maui, and if you get Mark as your guide, you’re in for an amazing day!
Betsy_B, Jun 2026
My daughter and I had an amazing time on our clear kayak experience! As a novice kayaker, I truly appreciated how patient & supportive our guide, Chris, was throughout the entire trip. He was kind, communicated everything clearly, & never rushed our group, which made the experience even more enjoyable and relaxing. The conditions were perfect—beautiful weather, calm ocean waters, & incredible visibility. The water was so clear that we could see straight down to the ocean floor! One of the highlights was stopping at “Turtle Town” for snorkeling, where we saw so many sea turtles along with a variety of tropical fish. We spent about 40 minutes snorkeling & had an absolute blast! I highly recommend booking the first session of the day (it’s less crowded), and the ocean is much calmer. Tip: don’t forget to bring a waterproof GoPro or a waterproof phone case so you can capture some truly unforgettable photos and videos underwater!
Esther_S, May 2026
Great experience with kyle!
I am 25 weeks pregnant and he was able to help me maneuver different ways to get in to the kayak (which I was worried about). Such a cool experience to see the animals and reef! He also helped capture awesome pictures under the water for us! Would highly recommend! Loved our experience!
Christie_F, May 2026
Truly one of the most amazing experiences of my life, to snorkel and swim with sea turtles! I would highly recommend this experience! Loved the clear water kayaks to be able to see below. Kyle was an amazing tour guide, very informative, attentive, quick to explain and make sure we were having a great time.
Crystal_C, May 2026
We had a blast! Kyle was so knowledgeable about the marine life & the area in general as well as keeping everyone safe. Definitely recommend & would go again !
Korie_P, May 2026
Extremely informative. Mark was very knowledgeable about the history of the island and about the sea life. He took the time with each guest to explain all wonders that live beneath the ocean. Lots of focus on safety. Was definitely well worth the money. Can't wait to come back in whale season.
Samuel_F, May 2026
Great day on the water with Kyle. Saw many turtles and pretty fish and coral. Highly recommend!!!!!!
Marlene_A, May 2026
This was overall a great experience. Got to see a lot of sea turtles while snorkeling. Our guides were very knowledgable and enjoy what they do. It was the best way to start your morning on the calm waters of Maui. I would recommend to anyone looking for a family friendly activity to do. It is very beginner friendly and felt safe. A little bit of workout when paddling but well worth it for the many incredible views you see both outside and underneath the water.
Joe_T, Apr 2026
Mark was an exceptional guide was so considerate of everyone’s different needs. Along with his history knowledge of the Island. Very safety conscience.
Teil_M, Apr 2026
We were blessed with a wonderful perfect weather day and one other family of four with us. Kyle was funny and kind and very informative. He treated us with respect and was also very attentive to the three kiddos and what they needed. He kept us all safe and took pictures for us under water. He was funny and positive and was great for a family outing. He checked in with everyone to see skill levels and experience levels as well as communicating options for when we got to swim around. We were lucky to get very close to several curious turtles. The clear kayaks are definitely the way to go. We did it two years ago without clear bottoms and I didn’t realize how much we missed out on. Thanks for a great start to our vacation!
Christina_S, Apr 2026
Happy & friendly guides made the experience so much better! Kyle, Chris, and Curtis were very knowledgeable and made sure we had a lot of fun. We saw so many turtles & even got to see dolphins in the distance.
Kelly_S, Apr 2026
The guides were super personable and fun. They really love their job and make sure everyone has a great experience.
McKenzie_D, Apr 2026
This was such an amazing experience, from Tiffany answering my questions before the tour to our tour guide Kyle giving us an amazing experience, I highly recommend. We saw so many turtles and swam in such beautiful waters!
Response from Host, Apr 2026
This is awesome to hear McKenzie, thanks so much for sharing your experience and for booking with us - Tiffany and Curtis
Abby_W, Mar 2026
Took my 82 year old mom on this for her birthday, she was very nervous about being on the water and getting in and out of the kayak but Chris was extremely kind and helpful and was an amazing guide. We saw at least a dozen turtles and countless other amazing reef critters. His pics and video were gorgeous - couldn't recommend this excursion more!!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Amazing Abby, we are so pleased to know you and your mom had such a fun time on our tour. Mahalo for booking with us and sharing your experience - Tiffany and Curtis
Bella_D, Feb 2026
Mark was amazing! We had such a great time. Very friendly and knew all the great spots! The group ended up being just us, and it made for a very personal experience! He also took a ton of photos for us. Additional to the great time with Mark, Tiffany was very helpful and friendly getting us set up. Thank you!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo Bella, a lovely private experience for the two of you. So happy you guys had a great time with guide Marc! Thanks for booking with us and sharing your review - Tiffany and Curtis
Andra_M, Feb 2026
This was a great experience for our entire family, we were able to see whales, turtles and many different species of fish. Curtis was a great, very knowledgeable guide.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Awesome to hear Andra! Glad you guys had an epic time with Curtis and thanks for taking the time to share your review - Tiffany and Curtis
Joanne_G, Feb 2026
Beautiful day with very helpful and knowledgeable guides. Being in a smaller group they were able to help everyone enjoy the entire tour. There were a few that were not as comfortable in the water and despite that they were able to see turtles. We even had an extra bonus of seeing a mother whale and baby!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo Joanne, happy to know you had a great time and also some whale action! Thanks for taking the time to share your review and for booking with us - Tiffany and Curtis
Stephanie_N, Feb 2026
Had an amazing time on this trip! Kyle was a great guide and super informative/accommodating for all guests. We were able to see many turtles and the clear kayaks were awesome
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo Stephanie, very happy to hear you had such a fun time with guide Kyle and also loved the clear kayaks! Mahalo for taking the time to share your review and for booking with us - Tiffany and Curtis
Patrick_K, Jan 2026
Had an awesome time kayaking in the clear bottom kayaks! We saw turtles and a Hawaiian monk seal and a ton of whales while kayaking. Chris and Curtis did an amazing job guiding our group.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Bless! Love hearing this, thank you for sharing and booking with us Patrick - Tiffany and Curtis
Vicki_D, Jan 2026
We saw several sea turtles and a wide variety of colorful reef fish. Overall, a powerful experience made extraordinary hearing vocalizations of humpback whales!
Our guides were a lot of fun, and we bonded with our fellow snorkelers! Do it!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Bless Vicki, thanks so much for taking the time to share your review and booking with us. Stoked you had such a fun time! - Tiffany and Curtis
Mary_C, Jan 2026
Marc, our guide, was very friendly and knowledgeable about Maui marine life. He set up the clear kayaks in advance and gave us quick tips on how to safely paddle in Makena bay. Throughout our snorkeling trip, he made sure we saw as much under water, including turtles, sea urchins, and colorful fish. We had a great time and would highly recommended Ohana and Marc!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Lovely to hear Mary! Thanks so much for sharing your review and booking with us - Tiffany and Curtis
lorna_f, Dec 2025
Experienced, knowledgeable, local tour guides with emphasis on safety for participants, ecosystem and wildlife. They took time to know our names, where we were from and what they could do to make the tour special.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
We love hearing this was a highlight for you! Mahalo Lorna for booking with us and taking the time to share your review. Stoked you had a fun time - Tiffany and Curtis
Amy_P, Nov 2025
Marc is a great guide and very knowledgeable about where to find the turtles and other things in the area. Would go again for sure
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Wonderful Amy this is so lovely to hear! Glad you had so much fun with guide Marc. He sure has the experience, growing up on Maui. Mahalo for booking with us and sharing your review - Tiffany and Curtis
Melanie_C, Nov 2025
Glass bottom kayak to turtle town is a must do bucket list item! We did this mid November and still nice enough to enjoy. Curtis was our guide, he was so knowledgeable, funny and very safe. We had a memorable time snorkeling with the magnificent turtles. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof disposable camera, we missed bringing one.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Lovely to hear Melanie! Happy to know you had such a fun time. Mahalo for sharing your review and for booking with us - Tiffany and Curtis
Elizabeth_G, Nov 2025
Incredible tour! Beautiful day! The turtles and fish did not disappoint! Our guide Kyle was fun and knowledgeable. A must-do! Will definitely do this tour again when we return to Maui. Thank you for a great experience!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
We appreciate you Elizabeth! Thanks for sharing and we are stoked you had so much fun! - Tiffany and Curtis
Likely to Sell Out
From $130.00
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
Compare Similar Experiences
Current
Likely to Sell Out
Maui Clear Kayak and Snorkel Tour: Swim with turtles (Makena)
603
3 hours
Free Cancellation
From
$130.00
Customers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought
Explore Similar Things to Do
- Shore Excursions
- Nature and Wildlife Tours
- Full-day Tours
- Bus Tours
- Outdoor Activities
- Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises
- Private and Luxury
- Private Sightseeing Tours
- Maui
- Shore Excursions - Honolulu
- Nature and Wildlife Tours - Honolulu
- Full-day Tours - Honolulu
- Bus Tours - Honolulu
- Shore Excursions - Oahu
- Nature and Wildlife Tours - Oahu
- Full-day Tours - Oahu
- Bus Tours - Oahu
Attractions in Maui, USA
- Mākena Tours & Tickets
- Maui Ocean Center Tours & Tickets
- Honolua Bay Tours & Tickets
- Iao Valley State Monument Tours & Tickets
- Kapalua Tours & Tickets
- Hoʻokipa Beach Park Tours & Tickets
- Kaumahina State Wayside Park Tours & Tickets
- Pipiwai Trail Tours & Tickets
- Lanai Island Tours & Tickets
- La Perouse Bay Tours & Tickets
- Kaʻanapali Beach Tours & Tickets