South Maui Turtle Reef Discovery

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South Maui Turtle Reef Discovery

South Maui Turtle Reef Discovery

Immerse yourself in South Maui’s renowned turtle habitats on this specialized reef discovery tour that focuses on the area’s most productive sea turtle viewing locations. Explore diverse coral reef ecosystems where Hawaiian green sea turtles feed, rest, and interact in their natural environment, while discovering the unique underwater topography that makes South Maui one of Hawaii’s premier marine life destinations.

Activity Price

109 USD

Duration

2.5 - 3 Hours

Age

Ages 5+

Location

Makena Landing

Amenities

Turtle Expertise – Specialized guides with extensive sea turtle knowledge

Conservation Focus – Educational experience supporting marine protection

Special Instruction

South Maui's Turtle Reefs Await

Premier Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle Viewing

Experience South Maui’s exceptional sea turtle populations in their natural feeding and resting habitats along ancient lava rock formations and coral reefs. These protected waters serve as crucial turtle habitat where you can observe Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) exhibiting natural behaviors including feeding on algae, resting on sandy bottoms, and visiting cleaning stations where small fish remove parasites from their shells. The area’s consistent turtle presence makes it one of Hawaii’s most reliable locations for meaningful sea turtle encounters.

Diverse South Maui Reef Ecosystems

Explore the varied underwater landscapes of South Maui, from shallow coral gardens perfect for beginners to deeper reef areas featuring dramatic lava formations and swim-through caverns. These diverse ecosystems support an incredible variety of marine life including white-tip reef sharks, eagle rays, octopus, moray eels, and over 200 species of tropical fish. The combination of different reef types and depths provides comprehensive underwater exploration opportunities for snorkelers of all experience levels.

Marine Conservation Education Experience

Learn about Hawaiian sea turtle conservation efforts, reef ecology, and the cultural significance of honu in Native Hawaiian tradition through expert naturalist guides. Understand the challenges facing marine ecosystems and ongoing protection efforts while observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. This educational component enhances your snorkeling experience by providing context for the important conservation work protecting Hawaii’s marine environment for future generations.

Turtle Reef Discovery Highlights

About

Additional information

Pricing

Cancellations

Activity Overview

Duration: 2.75 hours
Meeting Point: Makena Landing
Cancellation Policy: 24 hours in advance
Age Requirement: 5+
Group Size: Maximum of 10 people

Activity Details

Enjoy a scenic outing with breathtaking views of Haleakala, a stunning coastline perfect for paddling, and exceptional snorkeling spots. It’s an adventure that combines both relaxation and exploration!

What’s Included

All necessary kayaking and snorkeling equipment
A knowledgeable guide to ensure your safety and maximize your enjoyment

What’s Not Included

We recommend bringing the basics: sunscreen and a beach towel. If you have your own snorkeling gear, feel free to bring it along. If not, we’ve got you covered!

Tour Highlights

Arrival: Please check in 15 minutes before the tour begins. After a brief safety briefing and equipment overview, we’ll hit the water for an exciting adventure!
Guided Snorkel: Our expert guide will share fascinating insights about Maui, pointing out hidden gems and local wonders you might have missed on your own.
Turtle Encounters: Say hello to Tripod, the friendly three-flipper green sea turtle, and many of his aquatic friends. This is the best area in Maui for both kayaking and snorkeling!

Get ready for a fun-filled day exploring the ocean like never before!

Check-in Details

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start time for check-in. We’ll get you signed in, provide your gear, and then proceed with a brief safety briefing before heading out on the water.

What to Bring

Be sure to bring sunscreen and a beach towel (for drying off before getting back into your car – we all know no one enjoys a wet seat!).
If you’ve rented snorkel gear, feel free to bring it along. If not, don’t worry – we’ve got all the gear you’ll need!

Restrictions

If you have back issues, this activity may not be suitable for you. Please use discretion and consult with your doctor if necessary.

Disclaimers

Weather conditions, including swell and winds, may impact the tour. In the interest of safety, guides reserve the right to cancel the tour if conditions aren’t favorable. Your safety is our priority!

Pricing

Adults (9+ years old): US$109
Children (5-8 years old): US$109
Private Tours: US$716

Cancellation and Change Policy

Any changes or cancellations must be made at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled activity to receive a refund (72 hours for private tours).
Please note, the activity may be rescheduled due to severe weather or conditions.

South Maui Turtle Tour Questions

What makes South Maui special for sea turtle viewing?
South Maui’s coastline features ideal turtle habitat with abundant algae-covered lava rocks for feeding, sandy areas for resting, and protected bays for shelter. The area’s warm, clear waters and diverse reef ecosystems create perfect conditions for year-round turtle populations, making it one of Hawaii’s most reliable turtle viewing destinations.
How many different turtle sites do we visit?
The discovery tour typically visits 2-3 different turtle habitat areas, each offering unique characteristics and turtle viewing opportunities. Sites are selected based on daily conditions and turtle activity to maximize your chances of memorable encounters while exploring diverse South Maui reef ecosystems.
What other marine life will we see besides turtles?
South Maui’s reefs host incredible marine diversity including white-tip reef sharks, eagle rays, octopus, moray eels, and abundant tropical fish species like yellow tangs, butterflyfish, and parrotfish. The diverse ecosystems provide habitat for both common and rare marine species throughout the reef areas.
Is this tour appropriate for children?
Yes! This family-friendly tour is excellent for children who will be fascinated by close sea turtle encounters. Our guides provide age-appropriate marine education and ensure young snorkelers feel safe and comfortable while learning about Hawaii’s marine life and conservation efforts.
What's the best way to photograph sea turtles underwater?
Maintain the required 10-foot distance while using underwater cameras with good zoom capabilities. Move slowly and quietly to avoid disturbing turtles, and take advantage of good lighting conditions for clear photos. Our guides can provide photography tips and help position you for optimal turtle photo opportunities while respecting wildlife protection guidelines.

What Our Guests Say

Author 7

March 15, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana 7

We did the Road to Hana tour in Maui and it was amazing. We took so many beautiful pictures. Our tour guides name was Kalei, he made the tour great, he was very informative and made sure we knew when to have our camera ready. I would definitely request Kalei from Hawaiian tours to be our guide if we ever make it back to Maui 7.

Author 6

March 15, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana 6

Author 5

March 15, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana 5

Author 4

March 15, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana 4

Author 3

March 15, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana 3

Author 2

March 15, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana 2

Author 1

March 14, 2025

Fabulous Road to Hana

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