Private Kayak & Snorkel Adventure at Turtle Reef, Olowalu

Paddle the Olowalu Coast: Private Kayak & Snorkel Adventure!

Discover Maui’s coastline from the seat of a kayak on this fully private ocean adventure along the waters of Olowalu. With only your group and your guide, you’ll paddle across clear Caribbean-blue water beneath the West Maui Mountains, exploring a stretch of coastline known for its coral reefs, sea turtles, and incredible island views. The private format allows the experience to move at your pace, whether you want to spend more time paddling, snorkeling, wildlife watching, or simply taking in the scenery.

The centerpiece of the tour is Turtle Reef, one of West Maui’s best places to snorkel with Hawaiian green sea turtles (Honu). After arriving by kayak, you’ll enter the water to explore coral formations, search for tropical reef fish, and observe turtles as they move through the reef or rest along the bottom. Depending on conditions and wildlife activity, you may also encounter rays, octopus, eels, and other marine life that inhabit the Olowalu coastline. Throughout the experience, your guide shares knowledge about the reef ecosystem, local history, and the marine environment that makes this area so special.

From December through mid-April, the tour includes the added possibility of whale watching as humpback whales migrate through the waters off Maui. The peak months for whale activity are typically January through March, when mothers, calves, and competing males are most commonly seen. During whale season, guides keep watch throughout the tour for whale activity and will use a specialized underwater hydrophone to let guests listen to live whale songs beneath the kayak. While whale encounters are a seasonal bonus, the kayak and snorkel adventure itself is available year-round and offers an unforgettable way to experience Maui’s coastline from the water!

Duration

1. 4 Hours
   
2. Please arrive early for parking, check-in, gear fitting, and a safety briefing!
   

Location / Where to Meet

1. Check In/Departure Address: South of Olowalu Beach, Olowalu, Maui, Hawaii
   
2. Located along the West Maui coastline at approximately mile marker 14 on Honoapiilani Highway (Highway 30), south of Lahaina. It is 1 mile east of Olowalu General Store and Farmers Market…NOT Camp Olowalu!
   
3. Roadside parking is available along Honoapiilani Highway near the beach access at mile marker 14. There is no dedicated lot — arrive with enough time to park and walk down to your meeting point before your scheduled start time. There are no formal restroom facilities at this beach access point — plan accordingly before arrival.
   
4. Check-in with “Red” upon arrival (look for white Ford Ranger 4x4 with red, white and blue kayak trailer)
   

Ages & Requirements

1. Minimum age: 5 years old. Minors must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
   
2. The maximum passenger weight is 250 lbs (113 kgs).
   
3. Beware of 1” long Keawe Tree THORNS on ground and buried in the sand... leave your footwear on!
   
4. Basic swimming skills are required!
   
5. No prior kayaking or snorkeling experience required.
   
6. Participants must be able to paddle the kayak and follow guide instructions on the water.
   

What's Included

1. Certified Hawaii Marine Naturalist guide (private, exclusively for your group)
   
2. Premium snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins)
   
3. Tandem Kayaks & Paddles
   
4. Life jackets / flotation devices for all participants
   
5. Dry Bags
   
6. Fish ID cards
   
7. Bottled water and granola snacks
   
8. Live underwater whale song via exclusive hydrophone system (seasonal, December–May)
   
9. Turtle and marine life narration throughout
   

Not Included

1. Gratuity — never expected, but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10–25% to your guide!
   

What to Bring / Wear

1. Swimsuit & Towel
   
2. Reusable Water Bottle
   
3. Reef-Safe Sunscreen — it is required by law to use non-nano mineral sunscreen and avoid oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens to protect Olowalu Reef.
   
4. Extra Layers of Clothing — a light long-sleeve or windbreaker for the paddle back, especially on early morning tours.
   
5. Water Shoes or Sandals with Straps — for beach entry and exit.
   
6. Any Personal Snorkel Equipment (Optional)
   
7. Required paperwork - Signed medical form if required, waivers, etc.
   
8. Seasickness Medications - If you are prone to seasickness, it is recommended to take sea sickness medication at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before the scheduled dive time.
   
9. Waterproof Camera - The company is not responsible for any damaged or lost items.
   
10. Please remove any jewelry, watches, or anything that can get caught by the equipment or damaged by the water and pressure.
    

Wildlife Guidelines

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