Makena is a fantastic place to explore, thanks to its clear waters, abundant marine life, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re seeking an interactive underwater adventure or a chance to capture vacation memories professionally, Makena offers options that cater to different interests.
We particularly like the Turtle Town snorkeling trip for its close encounters with sea turtles and the professional photography session for their personalized touch and high-quality images. Both experiences ensure you’ll take home memorable moments, whether underwater or in front of the camera.
If you’re wondering what to do in Makena, we’ve put together a quick overview of the best tours—each with its own charm and appeal. From snorkeling with turtles to capturing Maui’s beauty on camera, these options help you make the most of your trip.
1. Wailea: Turtle Town Snorkeling Trip with Photo and Video
At number 1 on our list is the Wailea: Turtle Town Snorkeling Trip with Photo and Video, a well-loved tour rated 4.6 out of 5 by 33 reviews. For around $119 per person, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the underwater world with a small group, which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
The tour departs from Hawaii, United States, and immerses you right into Turtle Town, a popular spot known for its resident green sea turtles and vibrant marine life.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of expert guidance, intimate group size, and the chance to get up close and personal with the turtles. You’ll snorkel beneath the surface, swimming alongside colorful fish, and enjoy the lush coastlines in the background.
The crew also provides photos and videos, which help you remember the experience forever. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the crew and the unforgettable nature of swimming with turtles.
This tour is perfect for snorkelers of all levels, especially those who want a stress-free, guided adventure with great photo memories.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting an interactive marine experience without breaking the bank.
2. Maui: Professional Photography Session
Ranking perfect with a 5/5 rating from 1 review, the Maui: Professional Photography Session offers a personalized way to capture your vacation. For $420 per group (up to 5 people), you get a session lasting between 30 minutes and an hour, at locations like Wailea or Kapalua. This tour is all about turning your Maui trip into a collection of stunning images, taken by a professional photographer.
The photographer works with you to find the best angles and lighting, often during the golden hour when the light is just right. Many travelers appreciate the local knowledge of these photographers, who can guide you to the most photogenic spots. The images are high-quality and edited, giving you a beautiful keepsake of your trip.
This experience is especially ideal if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want professional photos of your family or loved ones. Since it’s a short, flexible session, it fits easily into most schedules.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want timeless, high-quality images to remember Maui’s beauty and their vacation moments.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget and what kind of memories you want to bring home. If you’re eager to explore the underwater world and enjoy a lively experience, the Turtle Town snorkeling offers a chance to swim with turtles and fish while capturing photos.
For those who prefer a more relaxed, picture-perfect souvenir, the professional photography session provides a personalized, high-quality keepsake of your Maui trip.
Think about your fitness level and comfort with water if choosing the snorkeling trip—it’s suitable for most, but some prior swimming experience helps. Conversely, if you’re traveling with family or celebrating a special event, a photo session might be most meaningful.
Booking early is recommended for the photography session, especially during peak golden hours, and for snorkeling trips in busy seasons.
Final Thoughts
Makena offers a diverse range of activities tailored to different interests and budgets. If you love the ocean and want to interact with marine life, the snorkeling trip to Turtle Town is a great choice. For a more relaxed and memorable way to preserve your Maui experience, the professional photography session is hard to beat.
Both provide excellent value and unique memories—just pick what suits your style best and book early to secure your spot.
No matter which you choose, these experiences will add a special touch to your Makena visit. With clear waters and stunning scenery just outside your door, now’s the time to plan your perfect Maui adventure.