South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel
5
South Shore Turtle Kayak and Snorkel
By Kelii's Kayak Tours
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About
Discover what lies above and below the clear waters of Makena Bay on a kayak and snorkel tour. Choose a single or 2-person kayak, then enjoy exceptional mountain views and possible wildlife sightings as you paddle along the coastline. Later use provided snorkel gear to explore colorful reefs that are home to endangered sea turtles. No experience is necessary for either activity and guides are happy to provide instruction.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99, max of 10 per group
Duration: 2h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Live guide: English
More
Highlights
- Observe local marine life in its natural habitat
- Use a single person kayak or share with a friend
- Get the personalized experience of a small group
- Enjoy provided lunch if longer tour selected
- Professional guide
- Beach side safety and paddling instruction from our guides
- Quality late model ocean touring kayaks
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Light refreshments
- Life Jackets
What's not included- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off NOT included
- Start:
- 5180 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753, USAGOOGLE / APPLE Map "Makena Landing". **** DO NOT go to any residential address. From Makena Landing parking lot, with ocean on right, walk up over little hill - ask for Kelii's Kayak
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3373TURTLE- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travelers can participate
- A maximum of ~ 10 paddlers per guide.
- Paddling distance for 2.5 hour tour is very leisurely. Snorkel time is approximately 45 minutes.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3373TURTLE
From
$118.84
per adult
Select date and travelers
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- Candace V0 contributionsAmazing Time on the water!Amazing time w Jake! Nicely organized and just the perfect amount of snorkeling and kayaking in gorgeous waters. Def purchase the photo package - well worth the $$😁. Thanks for a great time!!Written October 4, 2023
- Rmassaro0 contributionsHighly Recommend for Families and Couples!Highly recommend this tour! The guides were super communicative as we needed to change spots due to winds/weather so they texted us to let us know and confirmed with us before making the change. We ended up going out of Makena Landing and it was a beautiful location. The parking and the meet spot was easy to find. We were in a group of 6 (including ourselves) and we went out on 7/4. Nico was our guide and he did such a great job paying close attention to us and making sure we were having a great and safe time. He was very helpful the whole time and helped us in and out of the kayaks very easily. We saw so many turtles in the spot we went to and had plenty of time to snorkel with even some time to spare. Loved that we were in a smaller group so that it could be a bit more intimate. Highly would recommend to others! Thank you so much for a great experience Nico!!!Written July 5, 2023
- carmenlD149GI0 contributionsSnorkeling with TurtlesJeremiah was very entertaining, knowledgeable and thorough with instructions. The water in Makena Bay is so clear! We had four turtles swimming around us for most of the time we were in the water snorkeling. It was amazing to see these gentle creatures in their own environment. It was a highlight of our trip -- definitely a morning well spent!Written May 28, 2023
- Bigwavemauidave0 contributionsAwesome snorkeling/kayak whale watching experience! Our guide Tyler was outstanding!The snorkeling, whale watching, and kayaking experience was awesome! The water was so calm, like glass. Our guide, Tyler, was outstanding. He knew the right places to go and check out the fish and sea turtles. Also, I lost count how many humpback whales we saw! We were able to get close but we very respectful in not getting too close. I wouldn’t hesitate to book with Kelli’s Kayak Tour again and would definitely request Tyler as my guide.Written March 19, 2023
- DMHad0 contributionsExceptional experience!I took this tour as a solo traveler and had the best time! The guide, John was exceptional- encouraging group bonding and telling us all about the sea life, whales and area we were seeing and traveling through. It was a good calm paddle out to the shipping lane to see and hear whales pretty close- totally thrilling! We returned to the Olowalu reef for some of the best snorkeling I've done, off the kayaks. Clear water, tons of fish and healthy coral and a couple turtles. A wonderful way to spend time on the water and one of the best tours I've taken in Hawaii. The parking / meeting area has a steep curb that makes it easy to bottom out on low cars and lots of soft sand- I almost got stuck and I wasn't the only one. Use caution when pulling in.Written January 13, 2023
- 914preethik0 contributionsVery goodWe had a great experience with Nico, even though he was new, he guided us very well and kayaked with us through and kept a check on us. We did our own thing and the views were spectacular. Definitely recommend!!Written September 11, 2022
- Stephanie C0 contributionsGreat family adventure!!!.We had so much fun and our guide was extremely nice and patient and also very knowledgeable. He kept us safe and made sure we saw the best sights. Would definitely do it again!!!Written July 30, 2022
- 843marybethb0 contributionsGood for all agesIt took a little while to get everyone ready and in their kayaks, but once we got started it was fun. Tyler was a great guide. He helped everyone with the use of the kayak. He also shared some local history which was nice. We saw two turtles and a number of fish while snorkeling.Written July 7, 2022
- 817colleenv0 contributionsGreat excursion!We had a great time on our kayak and snorkel tour. Our guide, Tyler, was amazing! He was so patient, friendly and encouraging! Our kids (9 and 11) loved it! We saw lots of sea turtles and coral. Tyler did a great job with instructions and safety. Would definitely recommend!Written June 18, 2022
- Robert R0 contributionsFive stars and didn't even goThe surf was high and winds blowing. So had to reschedule. On the reschedule date my wife had a headache so had to cancel. The company was very understanding and flexible. They canceled the first trip due to the weather conditions and very helpful when my wife did not feel well. So greatly appreciated their responsiveness and help. I imagine this is a great trip, but the organization is even better.Written May 23, 2022
- jennatx220 contributionsBeautiful scenery & a great guide!Our guide Cody was great and in addition to ensuring we found a good spot to snorkel on a not very clear day, he shared interesting stories and facts about the islands. The tour was well run, and we genuinely enjoyed our time. Thanks Cody!Written May 6, 2022
- jacquelinej8180 contributionsGreat kayak with up close whale watch!!We had the best time with Tyler and Justin as our guides!! We had a small group and they took great care of us. They are very knowledgeable about the island and it’s waters. After a last minute launch location change (always safety conscious), we were treated to a great paddle. Tyler walked us through the launch process so we were really comfortable getting out on the water. We ran into a bait ball (something new I learned about!) and then saw a whale hanging out under our kayaks. After a few minutes the whale headed off and surfaced out in front of us. Truly magnificent and once one a lifetime experience!! I would highly recommend Keliis Kayak with Tyler and Justin as they ensure you have an unforgettable time!Written February 9, 2022
- Safari400800709050 contributionsBest experience on MauiI highly recommend Kelii’s kyak tours with Tyler as your guide. Tyler is AMAZING!! He is awesome , extremely knowledgeable, fun and professional. We felt safe the entire time we were out on the ocean . Tyler was patient and great with our family (He even convinced my reluctant teenage daughter to be comfortable in the water ) . Now she loves to snorkel thanks to Tyler . Tyler also takes incredible underwater photos!! We saw plenty of sea turtles , whales up close & even got to swim with an endangered Hawaiian munk seal. Thank you so much Tyler !! We did many excursions on the island and this one was the best!!Written January 31, 2022
- issacLian0 contributionsMust doOur family of four, with two boys, were on a one month tour of Hawaii, with one week on each of the four islands. We did activities on each island, had many wonderful moments, have to say the Kayak experience with Tyler at Kelii’s the most outstanding, should have been 6 star out of 5. Tyler is not only giving a tour, but his love of the water simply radiates in a very positive manner, yet never offending nor demanding. He really knows the water, and we had close encounter with whales, turtles, sea urchins, and lots of kayak and snorkeling fun. We have taken two other big boat ride before this and have seen many whales moments which were great, but the kayak experience should not be missed since it was most close and personal. Thanks for sharing your enjoyment of the water with us!Written January 26, 2022
- BTDish0 contributionsKayak Snorkeltour west sideGreat tour. We’ve done several motorized snorkel trips around Maui, Molokini, and Lanai. This trip is amazing- because you can get j to shallower reef areas where the boats can not. Great vis, lots of fish, and fun informative guide- Cody.Written December 19, 2021
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
121 reviews
Excellent
108
Very good
10
Average
3
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Kari
1 contribution
John was really great! Very informative and cared about us having a good experience. He was able to help more advanced people get out have fun and also there to support beginners . Lots of good cultural information about the Hawaiian people, the islands, and the sea life! Would highly recommend reserving this particular tour guide he took us where there were less people. Thanks John and Anna!
Written November 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jocey
Toronto, Canada59 contributions
Jan 2020
Can't really fault the guide, Greg, who was friendly and did his best. Unfortunately, we didn't see anything - no turtles, no whales, no fish. Weather wasn't great (overcast and a bit choppy) and tour probably should've been cancelled/post-poned the night before/morning of, but it was confirmed the night before and we didn't know any better upon arrival (it was our first time), so we went ahead when Greg asked us if we still wanted to go.
Written January 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cristoffer F
4 contributions
The ease of scheduling, paying, and pre-tour communication were great. The price was decent as well.
However, there were a couple things that drove the rating down. First, on site, the vehicle has no identification, making it difficult to locate in a sea of other kayak your companies. Second, while I recognize the conditions may not be great, the reason one hires a tour company is to know that ahead of time and locate an appropriate spot. Finally, the tour guide rambled on about “the COVID,” didn’t wear his mask over his mouth while gathered together, and gave no clear objectives, and targets. It was largely wandering around aimlessly for 75 minutes while he found a suitable spot not far from the beach from which we launched. I will add that he did give clear launch and return instructions, which are most useful for inexperienced adventurers.
I wish I could rank 3.5/5, but having to choose, I got more out of a self guided venture than I did with this tour.
However, there were a couple things that drove the rating down. First, on site, the vehicle has no identification, making it difficult to locate in a sea of other kayak your companies. Second, while I recognize the conditions may not be great, the reason one hires a tour company is to know that ahead of time and locate an appropriate spot. Finally, the tour guide rambled on about “the COVID,” didn’t wear his mask over his mouth while gathered together, and gave no clear objectives, and targets. It was largely wandering around aimlessly for 75 minutes while he found a suitable spot not far from the beach from which we launched. I will add that he did give clear launch and return instructions, which are most useful for inexperienced adventurers.
I wish I could rank 3.5/5, but having to choose, I got more out of a self guided venture than I did with this tour.
Written April 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Josh B
2 contributions
We did the four hour trip and were fortunate to have great weather. Our guide Curtis the "whale whisperer" was excellent. We kayaked out far to watch whales then came back in to shore and hit two great snorkeling spots. Saw a whole bunch of sea turtles. On the way in a mama and baby whale swam right under us. Could hear the whales singing in the water. Amazing/Unforgettable. Highly recommend.
Written February 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brandi H
Westlake, LA30 contributions
Y’all this experience was AMAZING!! We saw turtles, colorful fish and some really cool urchins and starfish. The icing on the cake was the huge pod of dolphins playing and spinning all around us! Jake was an awesome guide and he kept us intrigued with lots of info and he even had some amazing food recommendations. 10/10 would recommend :)
Written November 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jen
3 contributions
What a great experience. Ty was a great guide so kind so knowledgeable and made us feel very comfortable with the entire trip. We were able to get up close and personal with the whales saw turtles flying fish and a baby tuna. Our launch from the beach was so comfortable and not scary even though there were some waves Ty made it very safe. It was a beautiful day with great company we will definitely do this again if we ever come back to the island and will definitely tell our family who is coming this summer
Written March 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mahalo for taking the time to let you know about your experience! We look forward to having you out on the water with us again...
Written March 13, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Liz P
7 contributions
Sep 2023 • Family
This was a lot of fun! We actually switched times from 10:30 to 7am because earlier is recommended to avoid the afternoon winds. Our guide was Jake and he was a lot of fun and had stories and facts about the different buildings and islands surrounding us. We ended up in the double kayaks, me with a daughter and my husband with the other. Bonus, we didn’t tip over once! Snorkeling was a great experience, so many fish and creatures in the coral reef. We spotted a couple turtles at shore and were able to swim with another.
A note for you guys with a stache: my husband wasn’t able to snorkel much because the face mask wouldn’t seal properly above his lip, so I’d say either shave/trim it up or bring a full face mask!
A note for you guys with a stache: my husband wasn’t able to snorkel much because the face mask wouldn’t seal properly above his lip, so I’d say either shave/trim it up or bring a full face mask!
Written September 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lisa M
2 contributions
Jul 2022
Our family of 4, two middle-aged parents with two teenaged boys, had an excellent experience kayaking and snorkeling with skilled, experienced guide, Cody. He was friendly, knowledgeable, informative and led us to the perfect spot for snorkeling - we saw so many turtles, swimming around us and also resting on the ocean floor. He also offers photography services - beautiful above and underwater photos.
Written July 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jamie H
3 contributions
Hard a wonderful time with Jake (our guide) for this snorkel and kayak tour. He knew the great spots to go see the fish and sea turtles, had good stories to tell about the area and suggestions for food, etc. He was also very safety conscious and told everyone how to handle their kayaks and kept an eye out for everyone. He was able to point out things all us tourists wanted to see. Our group did have someone crack their chin open on the kayak and a seasick person and he had a medical kid and helped the seasick one (yours truly) calm their stomach somewhat. This was a great tour and I would highly suggest it to anyone.
Written October 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Clark L
Seattle, Washington, United States3 contributions
This is second kayak and snorkel trip with Tyler as our guide, and he is a fantastic guide and teacher. He led us right to a mother and baby whale, where he calmly navigated us close enough to see their beauty without scaring them away. We then dropped back into turtle town to see schools of beautiful fish and a bevy of turtles everywhere. Incredible experience and memories forever with our family of 5.
Written January 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
zhenxiong w
Jasper, Canada
My twins are just 13. how can I book the tour? do I count them as adults or kids? book one or two kayak
Written November 21, 2021
Where is the departure site? Is it close to Lahaina?
Written June 22, 2019
No, we left from makena beach
Written July 30, 2019
How far away are you from Aston at Papakea Resort?
Written June 9, 2019
How difficult is it to get back into your kayak after snorkeling?
Written January 19, 2019
It's a bit fighting, but our guid was very helpful, keeping the kayak quite steady. But you have to lift yourself up on the border of the kayak and you can swing your leg into it, followed by the rest of you... I guess it looks weird, but that did the trick for me...
Written January 27, 2019
Can we do two people in a single kayak?
Written May 29, 2018
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