South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel Experience

Thinking about adding some underwater magic to your Maui trip? The South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel Experience might just be what you’re after. This tour has earned a perfect 5-star rating from nearly 180 reviews, and it’s recommended by 97% of those who’ve tried it. Whether you’re a seasoned water enthusiast or a first-timer, this small-group excursion offers a chance to see Maui from a different perspective—paddling along the coast and exploring vibrant marine life.

One thing we really like about this experience is the chance to see green sea turtles up close—a highlight for many visitors. Plus, the guides seem to be a standout feature, with reviews praising their knowledge and friendliness. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to plan your own transportation to the meeting point. Overall, if you’re looking for a balanced mix of gentle paddling, snorkeling, and scenic views, this could be a great fit—especially if you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a relaxed, informative outing.

Key Points

• All skill levels welcomed: The tour is designed to be beginner-friendly with paddling instructions provided.
• Marine encounters: Expect to see sea turtles, colorful fish, and coral reefs, with the chance to hear whales in season.
• Flexible options: Choose between a 2.5-hour or a more leisurely 4.5-hour tour that includes lunch.
• Expert guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, patience, and ability to enhance the experience.
• Comfortable equipment: Quality, late-model kayaks and snorkeling gear are included.
• No hotel pickup: Transportation arrangements are up to you, so plan accordingly.

This tour is a thoughtfully curated way to enjoy Maui’s stunning coastline and underwater world, all within a safe and friendly environment. We loved the way it caters to a wide audience—whether you’re new to kayaking or an experienced paddler, you’re likely to find something enjoyable here.

The Itinerary and Scenic Stops

Starting at the meeting point in Kihei, the tour begins with a brief safety and paddling instruction right on the beach. Your guides, who are known for their friendliness and professionalism, will help you feel comfortable whether you’re in a single or tandem kayak. From there, you’ll paddle along Maui’s southern coast, passing by Little Beach and Big Beach—both iconic spots offering spectacular views and photo opportunities.

The route then heads toward La Perouse Bay, a place with volcanic origins and rugged beauty. As you glide through the water, your guide will provide commentary about the island’s history and landscape, adding a layer of understanding to your experience.

Marine Life and Snorkeling Highlights

Once you reach the snorkeling spot, it’s time to gear up. Your snorkel equipment is provided, and you’ll have about 45 minutes of underwater exploration. Guests frequently mention the close encounters with green sea turtles, which are often seen grazing on the reefs. Apart from turtles, you might spot colorful coral, a variety of fish, and even small cleaning stations where fish help keep the turtles tidy.

Many reviewers shared their excitement about the marine life, with one noting, “We immediately saw beautiful coral, lots of fish, and watched the small fish cleaning the turtles.” The chance to see these gentle creatures swim alongside you is what makes this tour memorable.

Paddling and Snorkeling Dynamics

The paddling is described as “very leisurely,” making it accessible even for those with no prior experience. The pace allows you to soak in the scenery, enjoy the ocean breeze, and chat comfortably with your guide. For the 2.5-hour tour, snorkeling lasts about 45 minutes, giving you enough time to relax and explore.

If you opt for the longer 4.5-hour excursion, you’ll benefit from a more relaxed pace, with the added bonus of lunch along the way. Several reviews praise the guides’ ability to balance fun and safety, ensuring everyone feels confident and engaged.

Guides: Knowledgeable and Friendly

The guides really stand out in this experience. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Tyler, Maddie, and John for their extensive knowledge of marine life and Maui’s geography. They’re noted for their patience, helpfulness, and ability to point out wildlife, making the tour not just fun but also educational.

One reviewer shared, “Tyler was so knowledgeable about the island and the history of Hawaii. He knew all the best spots, and we saw around 20 sea turtles and other wildlife.” It’s clear that the guides’ expertise significantly enhances the value of this tour.

Equipment and Comfort

Quality equipment is another plus. The tour provides late-model ocean touring kayaks, which are stable and easy to handle. Snorkel gear is included, and life jackets are provided for safety. The small group size—up to 10 paddlers—ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.

The Downside: No Hotel Pickup

While the tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience, it’s important to note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Travelers will need to coordinate their own transportation to the meeting point in Kihei, which could be a minor inconvenience depending on where you’re staying.

Price and Value for Money

At just under $120 per person, this tour offers a solid balance of cost and experience. Reviewers frequently describe it as “worth every penny,” especially considering the knowledgeable guides, marine encounters, and scenic beauty. For those seeking a relaxed, family-friendly adventure that combines paddling with underwater exploration, this is a good investment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities but don’t want anything too strenuous. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a scenic and educational marine adventure. Since the tour is designed to be beginner-friendly, it’s also great for first-timers. However, if you’re expecting a rigorous paddling workout, this may not be the right fit.

It’s especially appealing if your main goal is to see Maui’s famous green sea turtles and vibrant marine life from the comfort of your kayak, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

The Sum Up

The South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel Experience offers a well-rounded, friendly introduction to Maui’s coastal treasures. With its small group size, expert guides, and chances to see turtles and colorful fish, it’s a practical choice for anyone wanting to combine scenic paddling with underwater discovery.

While it does require some planning for transportation, the overall value is high, especially given the positive reviews praising the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Maui’s marine environment without intense physical demands—making it accessible and fun for most travelers.

If you’re looking for a laid-back, memorable day on the water that balances scenic views, wildlife encounters, and expert commentary, this tour is definitely worth considering. Perfect for those who want a safe, relaxed, and engaging introduction to Hawaii’s underwater world.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, no experience is necessary. Guides provide beachside paddling instructions to help everyone feel comfortable, and paddling is described as very leisurely.

Does the tour include snorkeling gear?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included in the package, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own.

How long is the snorkeling time?
Snorkel time is approximately 45 minutes, giving you enough opportunity to see marine life and relax in the water.

Can I see sea turtles during the tour?
Yes, many reviews mention seeing green sea turtles, sometimes multiple at a time, swimming around the reefs.

What’s the difference between the 2.5-hour and 4.5-hour tours?
The shorter tour is around 2.5 hours, focusing on paddling and snorkeling, while the longer version includes a more relaxed pace and a provided lunch.

Is transportation provided to the meeting point?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the starting location.

How many people are in each group?
Tours are limited to about 10 paddlers, ensuring a small, intimate experience with plenty of guides’ attention.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sun protection. The guides will provide instructions on safety and paddling.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re seeking a casual, wildlife-rich paddle along Maui’s scenic south coast, this tour offers a wonderful mix of nature, education, and gentle adventure—definitely worth considering for your Maui itinerary.