Wailea Makena is renowned for its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and access to some of Maui’s most captivating natural sights. But it’s also a fantastic launchpad for exploring the island’s diverse landscapes and marine life.
Whether you’re interested in a full-day scenic drive, paddling with sea turtles, or snorkeling at iconic spots, you’ll find options that match various interests and energy levels.
Our favorite is the Road to Hana — a journey that combines lush scenery, waterfalls, and local farm-to-table meals, offering a true taste of Maui’s natural beauty and hospitality.
If marine adventures are more your style, the Turtle Town, Makena; Clear Bottom Kayak and Snorkel Tour provides a relaxed way to see Maui’s vibrant underwater world.
For those wanting a more focused snorkeling experience, the Maui: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town Snorkeling Tour offers a small-group outing to two of Maui’s most famous snorkeling sites. Read on to find out which tour suits your style best.
1. Road to Hana: Professional Guide, Food, Swimming, Waterfalls
The Road to Hana is arguably Maui’s most iconic drive, and this guided tour makes sure you experience its highlights without the stress of navigation. For around $280, you get a full 10-hour adventure that winds through rainforests, past waterfalls, and along rugged coastlines. The tour includes insights from an expert guide who shares the local stories, legends, and the Aloha spirit behind the scenery.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on local food and authentic stops. You’ll enjoy farm-to-table meals in scenic spots, which means fresh, Hawaiian-grown produce and homemade treats. The journey also includes several waterfalls, where you can take a swim or just snap photos of the cascading water. Plus, you’ll get plenty of time to capture memorable videos of the lush landscapes and rugged cliffs.
The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5 out of 5 from 15 travelers, praising the knowledgeable guides and the well-paced itinerary.
If you want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see Maui’s most celebrated scenery, this tour is a top choice. It’s perfect for nature lovers who also appreciate local cuisine and storytelling. Keep your camera ready — the photos here will be frame-worthy.
Bottom Line: A full-day, immersive experience that combines scenery, culture, and cuisine—ideal if you want a deep dive into Maui’s natural beauty.
2. Turtle Town, Makena; Clear Bottom Kayak and Snorkel Tour
For a relaxed, family-friendly adventure, the Turtle Town Kayak and Snorkel Tour offers a fun way to explore the marine environment without needing advanced swimming skills. At just $125 per person, this three-hour guided outing is praised for its high ratings (4.9 out of 5 from 17 reviews) and the chance to see turtles, manta rays, eels, and octopus up close.
What makes this tour especially appealing is the use of clear bottom kayaks, which allow you to observe marine life beneath your kayak — no diving or strenuous swimming required. The guide shares fascinating stories about Maui’s ocean ecosystem and the history of the region, enriching your experience. You’ll paddle over calm waters with panoramic views of Haleakala, West Maui Mountains, and Molokini.
The highlight for many is spotting sea turtles surfacing just a few feet away, which is a magical experience for snorkelers and paddlers alike.
This tour is suited for families, casual paddlers, or anyone curious about Maui’s underwater world but not eager for a full-day commitment. It offers great value with its shorter duration and intimate group size, making it a perfect introduction to marine life.
Bottom Line: An easy, engaging way to see Maui’s marine creatures in a relaxed setting, ideal for families or first-time snorkelers.
3. Maui: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town Snorkeling Tour – 3 hr
If you’re looking for a focused snorkeling experience, the Molokini Crater and Turtle Town Tour delivers in just three hours. For $162 per person, this small-group excursion combines two of Maui’s most celebrated snorkeling sites.
The tour takes you to Molokini, a crescent-shaped volcanic crater known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, and Turtle Town, where you’ll have a chance to swim alongside Hawaiian sea turtles.
What makes this tour stand out is its small-group setting, which reduces the crowds often found on larger boats, allowing for a more intimate and relaxed experience. You’ll enjoy varied scenery both above and below the surface, with opportunities to see a variety of sea life, including turtles surfacing just feet away.
The tour also provides insight into the region’s unique geology and marine ecosystem, making it educational as well as fun.
Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 8 reviews, most guests love the convenience of exploring both key snorkeling spots in a single trip. While some may prefer a longer tour for more time in the water, this 3-hour outing offers excellent value for those short on time but eager to see Maui’s underwater highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for snorkelers who want to visit two top sites in a short time, with a focus on small-group comfort and marine encounters.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend. If you’re after a full-day adventure with waterfalls, scenic drives, and local food, the Road to Hana is hard to beat.
For a relaxed, family-friendly marine experience, the Turtle Town Kayak and Snorkel Tour offers ease and close-up wildlife sightings. If you prefer a quick, in-depth snorkeling trip, the Molokini and Turtle Town small-group outing is ideal.
Budget, fitness level, and time constraints are key factors. The scenic road trip suits those willing to dedicate a full day, while marine tours are great for shorter outings or those with limited mobility. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
In summary, Wailea Makena offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests — from scenic drives to close-up marine encounters. If you love breathtaking landscapes and local flavor, the Road to Hana should be on your list.
For marine life lovers, the kayak and snorkeling options provide memorable, up-close experiences. Whether you prefer a leisurely day or a quick adventure, Maui’s wonders await.
Don’t forget to plan ahead and book early — Maui’s best tours fill up fast, especially in peak season. Whichever you choose, these tours will add a special touch to your Hawaiian vacation, creating memories to cherish long after you leave the island.