Waterfall Hike and Kayak Snorkel & Paddle from Makena

This experience made our article of The 15 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours In Maui.

Waterfall Hike and Kayak Snorkel & Paddle from Makena — A Full-Day Adventure in Maui

Imagine combining the thrill of paddling along Maui’s stunning coastlines with the peaceful serenity of snorkeling among sea turtles, then ending the day with a walk through ancient Hawaiian ruins and waterfalls. That’s what you get with this Waterfall Hike and Kayak Snorkel & Paddle tour from Makena, offered by Keliis Kayak Tours. This 6-hour excursion packs in a healthy dose of sea, land, and culture, making it an engaging way to see a slice of Maui’s natural beauty.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances active outdoor fun with cultural insights. You’ll get to paddle clear waters in search of marine life, then stretch your legs on a guided hike through a landscape dotted with old Hawaiian sites and lush waterfalls. The second highlight? The friendly guides who are not only knowledgeable but also genuinely enthusiastic about sharing their love for Maui. On the flip side, one thing to consider is the shorter durations for each activity, which might leave those craving more wishing for longer explorations. But overall, this tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded, active day that showcases Maui’s land and sea.

This experience works best for those who enjoy adventure, cultural stories, and scenic beauty in one package. If you’re traveling with family, especially older kids or teenagers, or if you want a day packed with variety without sacrificing comfort, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining sea kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking
• Expert guides with a wealth of local knowledge and stories
• Suitable for most ages with a minimum age of 6 years
• Includes all necessary equipment like kayaks, snorkeling gear, and hiking supplies
• Approximately 6 hours of outdoor activity, with a mix of water and land
• Small group size (max 8 travelers) for personalized attention

Discovering Maui’s Coastline by Kayak and Snorkel

The tour kicks off early, at 7:15 am at Makena Landing Park, a spot renowned for its volcanic history and beautiful views. Once everyone’s briefed and equipped, the kayaks are launched into the calm, protected waters of Makena Bay. This part of the trip is not just fun but also educational—your guides share stories of early explorers and how they influenced the native Hawaiian people.

As you paddle along the Makena coastline, expect to encounter Hawaiian Green sea turtles, which are a common sight here. Several reviews highlight how memorable these encounters are, with one traveler mentioning they swam with “several sea turtles”—an experience that’s often described as “amazing” and a highlight of the trip. The guides excel at pointing out marine life and making sure everyone feels comfortable, even if you’re new to kayaking or snorkeling.

The snorkeling stop is at a protected cove, perfect for exploring underwater life. Expect to see colorful schools of tropical fish and, if you’re lucky, more turtles surfacing for air. The snorkeling is about 45 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy the reef’s tranquility. Our sources mention that the quality of equipment and guides’ attentiveness greatly enhance this part of the tour, making it accessible and enjoyable for beginners.

Hiking Through Old Hawaii and Ruins

After a couple of hours on the water, the scene shifts from ocean waves to lush land. The guides help you lace up hiking boots for a walk through Maui’s ancient volcanic landscape. The hike is on level terrain, making it suitable for most participants, though it does cover about 2.5 miles.

One of the most praised parts of this experience is the opportunity to see remnants of older Hawaiian settlements and ancient ruins. As you walk, your guide shares stories of Hawaiian history, local plants, and the volcanic activity that shaped this part of Maui. Reviewers have particularly enjoyed the detailed explanations—one mentioned how Dawn, their guide, “provided a lot of detail about local plants, history, and showed us some amazing spots.”

The hike also takes you through the site of Maui’s last lava flow from 220 years ago, which is both visually stunning and historically significant. You pass by various other Hawaiian sites and ruins, adding a cultural dimension to the outdoor adventure. If you’ve read about Maui’s volcanic past or are just curious about the island’s ancient peoples, this part of the tour offers a meaningful glimpse into their world.

Waterfalls, Refreshments, and Rest

One of the tour’s great perks is the lunch and refreshments provided, which are served sitting by a waterfall — a beautiful setting that enhances the overall experience. Reviewers describe the food as “excellent,” especially the chance to eat while enjoying the sights and sounds of flowing water.

The waterfall hike itself is often praised as “fabulous,” with guides like Dawn or Ashley taking time to point out local plants and share stories that add context to the scenic views. Some reviewers mention how the guide even allowed a swim or jump off the cliffs into the water—an optional thrill for those who want it.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour includes all necessary equipment: quality late-model kayaks, snorkel gear, hiking supplies like backpacks, rain ponchos, and insect repellent, as well as light refreshments and a lunch. The guides are professional and attentive, making safety and comfort a priority.

However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your transportation to Makena Landing Park. Also, given the small group size (maximum 8), the experience feels intimate, with plenty of room for questions and interaction.

The tour operates weather permitting; if conditions aren’t suitable, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund. It’s worth considering that the paddling distance is about 2 miles, plus a 2.5-mile hike, so a basic level of fitness helps but isn’t necessary.

Authentic Reviews: What Travelers Think

Most reviews are glowing, praising the friendly guides, stunning scenery, and value for money. Many mentioned that the guides, like Justin or Cody, went above and beyond to teach first-timers and point out marine life, making the experience accessible and fun.

One reviewer highlights that the water in Makena Bay is “so clear and delightful,” making snorkeling especially memorable. Another noted how Dawn’s detailed storytelling made the hike engaging and educational. The small group size was also appreciated, adding a personalized touch to the experience.

A few reviews mention that the activities felt a bit short, wishing for more time on each, but overall, the consensus is that the variety and quality make up for the brevity.

In The Sum Up

This tour offers a balanced mix of water and land adventures that highlight Maui’s natural beauty and cultural history. It’s ideal for travelers who want an active, engaging day with knowledgeable guides leading the way. The inclusion of snorkeling with sea turtles and exploring ancient Hawaiian ruins makes it both fun and meaningful.

While it may be a long day, the variety keeps things fresh, and the small group size ensures attentive guiding. The value for money shines through in the quality of instruction, scenery, and the memorable experiences shared. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo traveler eager to see Maui’s best outdoors, this tour ticks many boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the start time for the tour?
It begins at 7:15 am at Makena Landing Park, so be prepared for an early start to get the most out of the day.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your transportation to and from Makena Landing Park.

How long is the kayaking portion?
The paddling covers approximately 2 miles in protected waters, providing a manageable yet enjoyable experience for most participants.

What equipment is provided?
All necessary gear, including quality late-model kayaks, snorkel equipment, backpack, rain poncho, and insect repellent, is included.

Can children participate?
Yes, with a minimum age of 6 years, making it suitable for families with younger kids who can handle light activity.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, and perhaps a towel. The guides provide most gear, but comfortable footwear for hiking is recommended—especially since some reviews mention that footwear choice affects the foot comfort during the stream walk.

Is this tour weather dependent?
Yes, it operates weather permitting. If conditions are unsafe, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How strenuous is the hike?
The 2.5-mile hike is on level terrain, so it’s manageable for most participants, though fitness levels vary.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Expect paddling along Maui’s scenic coast, snorkeling with sea turtles, and a guided hike through ancient Hawaiian sites and waterfalls—all with knowledgeable guides.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, including all activities, instruction, and breaks.

This carefully curated adventure offers a wonderful way to connect with Maui’s stunning landscapes, both on land and sea. For those seeking a full, active day with authentic experiences, this tour delivers on many fronts — cultural stories, marine encounters, and rainforest scenery. Just bring your sense of adventure!