Best Kayak Tours in Maui
The crystal-clear waters of Hawaii's archipelago are an invitation to water sports. If you like paddling, get your arms ready and kayak around Maui.
Kayaking in Maui | ©Mary L Plunkett
The island of Maui is a dream destination for water sports enthusiasts. There are many things to see and do on Maui throughout the year, with water sports being a favourite activity for visitors.
There are waters to suit all tastes around Maui, whether it's surfing, windsurfing, swimming, cruising or kayaking. If you prefer the latter, this article will explain the best tours and activities to do during your stay.
1. Enjoy an ecological adventure at Makena Turtle Town
Turtle Town is one of the most popular and recommended dive destinations on Maui. It is located along the south coast of Maui and is a wonderful place to witness a wide variety of marine life and see some animals unique to Hawaiian waters and found nowhere else on earth.
Best of all, sea turtle sightings in Maui are guaranteed on this tour.
On this tour, you'll kayak from Makena to Turtle Town, where you 'll snorkel on a protected reef alongside huge green sea turtles, rays, octopus, dolphins and more. Included in the price is the use of all necessary equipment, specialised guides, water and snacks.
Details of interest
- Price: from 86 euros per person.
- Duration: around 3 hours.
- Advantages of this option: you will be able to dive with the marine fauna as well as paddle.
- Disadvantages of this option: not available in Spanish.
2. Take a kayak tour of the turtle reef with whale watching included
On this tour, in addition to seeing the stunning marine wildlife around Makena Beach while paddling through the calm waters of Maui and snorkelling, you will also have the opportunity to observe humpback whales during the whale watching season which runs from late December to mid-April.
Whale watching in Maui is a tourist favourite and one of the things to do in winter in Maui that you can't miss.
Details of interest
- Price: from 100 euros per person approximately.
- Duration: 3 hours.
- Advantages of this option: Double kayaks are available.
- Disadvantages of this option: Not available in English.
3. Take part in a fun kayaking and snorkelling experience in Kihei
The peculiarity of this tour is the type of nautical equipment in which the navigation takes place. On this excursion you will sail in the latest generation kayaks, which are completely transparent, allowing you to observe the marine fauna at the same time as you paddle.
The transparent kayaks are a new trend in water sports equipment in areas where the richness of the marine fauna is worthy of being observed in detail.
The price includes the use of all the equipment necessary for the experience. This tour is also one of the best things to do in Maui with children (check details at the time of booking). Snacks are included in the price and vegan options are available.
Details of interest
- Price: from 134 euros per person.
- Duration: 3 hours.
- Advantages of this option: the kayaks are transparent.
- Disadvantages of this option: not available in Spanish.
4. Discover Pali Sea Cliff while paddling
This kayak tour takes place in a different area of Maui, from Papalaua Beach along the Pali Coast, so the experience is different from the other kayak tours.
On this tour you paddle along the coastline and see the striking cliffs and varied marine life of the area, as well as the beautiful coral reefs. The views of the cliffs off the coast of Pali are breathtaking and the only way to see them in their full extent is from the sea.
You will also have the opportunity to snorkel in the relaxing waters of this region of Maui. All equipment and refreshments are included in the tour price.
Details of interest
- Price: from
- Duration: about 4 hours.
- Advantages of this option: This tour takes place in an unusual area of Maui.
- Disadvantages of this option: Not available in English.
How to book a kayak tour in Maui
The best way to book a kayak tour of Maui is to do it online with one of the companies that specialise in selling packages and tourist experiences. This way you can be sure that your chosen date will be available at the time of your trip.
Another advantage of buying tours online is that by visiting the specialised websites you can discover many other activities and tours to do in Maui and you can also book them in advance, such as the famous Road to Hana tour or a relaxing boat ride around the island.
You also have the advantage of being able to pay with credit and debit cards, an option that is not always available if you choose to book directly with the guides.
What are the advantages of taking a guided kayak tour of Maui or doing it on my own?
The main advantage is safety, sailing if you don't know the area is dangerous anywhere, even if the water is calm. By opting for a guided tour you can be sure that you are hiring people specialised in this type of excursions and with the necessary courses for nautical activities.
It is also often cheaper to do a guided tour than to rent the equipment separately and do it on your own.
Another great benefit of taking a guided tour is the wealth of information you will get from your guide and the practical tips that will make your paddling and diving experience even better.
You can get information on everything there is to know about diving in Maui to prepare your itinerary.
Tips for a kayak tour in Maui
After assessing the best time to visit Maui for you, based on your preferences, itinerary and time availability, there are a few tips to keep in mind if you are going on a kayak tour.
- Wear appropriate clothing for water activities, opting for quick-drying clothing. - Bring sunscreen and apply it frequently.
- Don't forget sunglasses and a hat- Always wear a life jacket- If you can't swim, avoid this type of activity- Always follow your guide's instructions and don't get separated from your group.