South Maui: Whale Watch Kayaking and Snorkel Tour in Kihei

If you’re dreaming of a day on the water in Maui, this Whale Watch Kayaking and Snorkel Tour could be just what you’re looking for. Offering a close-up look at humpback whales, green sea turtles, and vibrant reef life, it combines adventure with education, all wrapped into a manageable three-hour trip. While not every whale will make an appearance, the overall experience tends to be well-loved by those who want an active way to see the ocean’s wildlife up close.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its small group size—limited to just 10 people—which creates a more personal, less rushed adventure. Plus, the guides seem genuinely knowledgeable and eager to share stories, folklore, and insights about Maui’s marine environment. On the flip side, some travelers note that whale sightings can be unpredictable, especially toward the end of the season, so it’s good to keep expectations flexible.

This tour is perfect if you enjoy hands-on activities and want a more active experience than just sitting on a boat. It’s suitable for those comfortable with kayaking and snorkeling, but it could also be appealing for families with older kids or anyone eager to spend a few hours exploring Maui’s waters in a more intimate way.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with small group size (up to 10 participants)
• Eco-friendly kayaking offers a closer view of whales and marine life
• Expert guides who share local stories and marine insights
• Snorkeling at vibrant reef spots, with abundant sea turtles
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Weather-dependent—whale sightings aren’t guaranteed

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Imagine paddling through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the vast blue of Maui’s coast. This guided kayak tour starts with a comprehensive safety briefing and hands-on instruction, so even beginners can feel comfortable. The sit-on-top kayaks are easy to manage, making the experience accessible for most fitness levels.

Once you’re comfortably on the water, your guide will lead you out into the open sea with the goal of spotting whales. From what travelers share, this part is pretty magical when whale behavior cooperates. Guides are great at explaining each whale movement and call, which makes the encounters more meaningful. Although, as some reviews mention, sightings can sometimes be elusive—especially later in the season—so patience is part of the deal.

Paddling and Whale Watching

The real highlight is seeing whales in their natural habitat. You’ll paddle at eye level with these gentle giants, watching for breaching, tail slaps, or spyhopping. Many guests mention how close they get—sometimes just feet away—which is a rare and exciting perspective. One reviewer even described witnessing a double breach and a synchronized whale tail performance, which sounds incredible.

Your guide will keep you informed about whale behaviors and help maintain a safe distance, ensuring both whales and humans are respected. It’s a laid-back but active way to connect with Maui’s marine life, and many say that the experience feels personal rather than commercialized.

Snorkeling with Green Sea Turtles

After whale watching, the tour moves toward a reef area for some snorkeling. This part is often the most memorable for guests, many of whom highlight the chance to see Hawaii’s famous Green Sea Turtles. The waters here are teeming with colorful fish and coral, making it a lively underwater scene.

From reviews, guides are prepared with snorkeling gear and are happy to assist anyone new to snorkeling. The spot is described as “full of turtles, fish, and beautiful coral,” which helps explain why many consider it a must-do activity in Maui. Some guests mention seeing reef sharks and octopuses, adding a touch of adventure to the peaceful reef exploration.

The Return and Overall Atmosphere

At the end of the tour, your guide will escort you back to the beach, often with plenty of time to relax and reflect. It’s a well-paced, manageable trip that balances activity and relaxation. The snacks, water, and juice included help keep everyone refreshed, especially after paddling and snorkeling.

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The Value of the Experience

At $119 per person, the tour offers a fairly accessible price point for the quality of wildlife viewing and personalized attention. The small-group format means fewer crowds and more space to enjoy the scenery and wildlife, which is a big plus. Many reviewers praise their guides—like Jake, Madison, Kyle, and Tyler—for being knowledgeable, personable, and safety-conscious, making the trip more enjoyable and informative.

However, it’s worth noting that whale sightings depend heavily on season, weather, and luck. Several reviewers mentioned they didn’t see whales but still enjoyed the snorkeling and the company. The tour is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so if whales are elusive during your trip, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Practical Details

Starting at Makena Landing Park, the check-in process is straightforward with plenty of free parking. Make sure to arrive on time to avoid holding up the group. The tour usually runs in the mornings, and it’s recommended to bring sunglasses, a hat, and a towel. Since weather conditions can affect the experience, it’s wise to be prepared for anything from calm seas to windier conditions.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits adventurous travelers who enjoy being active and want a more intimate look at Maui’s marine environment. It’s ideal for those comfortable in the water and eager to see whales, turtles, and fish from up close. Families with older children might find it engaging, especially if they’re excited about kayaking and snorkeling, but it’s not designed for very young kids or those with limited mobility.

Because the tour is weather-dependent and whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, it’s best for flexible travelers who understand that nature’s unpredictability is part of the adventure. If you love guides who share stories and local lore, and you’re happy to paddle a bit in search of wildlife, this tour offers a memorable slice of Maui’s ocean.

FAQ

Do I need experience to join this tour?
No experience is necessary. The guide provides a safety orientation and instructions on managing the sit-on-top kayaks, making it accessible for most.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, and a towel to stay comfortable. It’s also wise to wear swimwear under your clothes and bring sunscreen for sun protection.

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is best suited for those comfortable with water activities and older children who can handle kayaking and snorkeling. It isn’t specifically designed for very young kids.

What if I don’t see any whales?
While whale sightings are a highlight, they’re not guaranteed due to weather, season, and whale behavior. Even if whales aren’t seen, most guests enjoy snorkeling and the overall experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, typically in the morning—perfect for fitting into a day of exploring Maui.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet your guide at Makena Landing Park, 100 yards south of the parking lot. Plenty of free parking is available.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

What’s included in the price?
Your tour includes kayaking equipment, a guide, safety orientation, snorkeling gear, snacks, water, and juice.

Are tips expected?
Tip the guides if you feel they did a good job—this is appreciated but not required.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation isn’t included, so plan to get to the meeting point on your own.

Final Thoughts

For anyone eager to combine active outdoor fun with wildlife encounters, this South Maui whale watch kayaking tour offers a hands-on way to see Maui’s marine life at eye level. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly attitude help make the experience both fun and educational. You’ll likely come away with fantastic stories, especially if whale activity is lively during your visit.

While the variability of whale sightings might be a slight downside, the snorkeling opportunity with green sea turtles and vibrant reef life consistently receives praise. The small group size makes for an intimate experience, perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed, less commercialized adventure.

If you’re looking for a day that blends paddling, wildlife, and local stories in Maui’s beautiful waters, this tour is a solid choice—just keep an open mind about the unpredictability of nature and enjoy the ride.

You can check availability for your dates here: