South Maui: Waterfall Tour w/ Kayak, Snorkel, and Hike

If you’re looking for a day that mixes adventure, nature, and a bit of adrenaline, the South Maui Waterfall Tour might just be your perfect match. This 7.5-hour guided outing combines kayaking in the open ocean, snorkeling alongside sea turtles, hiking through lush rainforests, and jumping off waterfalls into natural pools. The reviews highlight it as a well-organized, scenic, and fun experience—so much so that most visitors rate it a solid 5 out of 5.

What we love most? The chance to see Maui’s vibrant marine life up close, especially the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, while enjoying the variety of activities packed into one day. The guides, like Jacob, are praised for their knowledge and care, making the experience both educational and safe.

A possible consideration? The tour is a full day, which means you’ll need to be prepared for an active schedule. Also, it starts at Makena Landing Park, so if you’re staying further north or west, you’ll need to arrange transport.

This experience is ideal for active travelers who want a multi-sensory dive into Maui’s natural beauty. It’s also perfect if you’re eager to explore beyond the typical beaches, seeking a mix of water, land, and wildlife encounters.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Adventure: Combines kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and waterfall jumps for a full tropical immersion.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Jacob are praised for their knowledge, making the day informative and safe.
• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunity to see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Diversity: From ocean waves to rainforest greenery and waterfalls, the scenery is constantly changing.
• All-Inclusive: Lunch, snacks, and necessary gear are provided, offering great value.
• Active Day: Suitable for travelers comfortable with physical activity; not ideal for very young children under 6.

Exploring the Day in Detail

Starting Point: Makena Landing Park

The adventure begins at Makena Landing Beach Park, a well-known spot on Maui’s south coast. The location is convenient for water-based activities, with calm but surf-ready waters perfect for kayaking and snorkeling. You’ll meet your guides, who are often described as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. Participants have noted the importance of arriving prepared with swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and sports shoes, as you’ll need them throughout the day.

Kayaking in the Open Ocean

The tour kicks off with kayaking beneath the warm Hawaiian sun. Paddling over gentle waves offers a chance to connect with Maui’s waters and spot marine life close to shore. Many reviewers mention the enjoyment of paddling in the clear waters, with some fortunate enough to see sea turtles grazing or floating nearby. The experience is described as smooth and well-guided, even for those new to kayaking.

Snorkeling with Sea Turtles

Next, you’ll dive into the crystal-clear waters for snorkeling. This is often the highlight for many guests—getting up close with Maui’s famous Green Sea Turtles. Reviewer Nicole remarked that the snorkeling was “super fun, educational, and scenic,” emphasizing the opportunity to observe these gentle creatures in their natural environment. The water visibility tends to be excellent, making it easy to spot colorful fish and coral below.

The Rainforest Hike

After the water activities, it’s time to trek into Maui’s lush rainforest. The guided hike takes you through green landscapes, parked with scenic views and fresh air. Guides like Jacob are praised for their stories about the island’s plants and history, adding an educational element to the journey. The walk is moderate, and most participants find it manageable, even if they’re not seasoned hikers.

Waterfall Swimming and Cliff Jumps

Arriving at the waterfalls, you’ll have opportunities to swim in natural pools, relax, and even jump off cliffs into the water below. Reviewers frequently mention the thrill of this part—Gonzalo called it a “really cool waterfall.” Be prepared for some jumping, which might be a concern if you’re uneasy about heights or jumping into water. Safety measures are in place, and guides are attentive to ensure everyone’s comfort.

End of the Day

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and a camera full of stunning photos. The inclusion of lunch and snacks means you won’t go hungry after a full day of activity.

Is It Worth the Cost?

At $261 per person, this tour offers substantial value considering the variety of activities included. You’re not just paying for a single experience but a full day of adventures, guided by professionals who focus on safety and fun. The reviews underline that guides like Jacob make the day especially memorable—adding educational insights that elevate the experience.

On top of that, all essential gear, snacks, and lunch are provided, saving you time and money on rentals or meals elsewhere. For active travelers seeking a well-rounded, authentic taste of Maui’s outdoors, this tour is considered a fantastic investment.

The Experience You’ll Remember

Many reviewers emphasize how well-organized and scenic the tour is. As Nicole pointed out, Jacob’s extensive knowledge about the island and its plants made the day more meaningful. Gonzalo appreciated the “awesome experience” with the water and the opportunity to see turtles up close. Guides seem attentive and safety-conscious, ensuring everyone feels comfortable during jumps or swims.

The mixture of activities means you’ll enjoy the best of Maui’s diverse environments—waves and coral reefs on the coast, the serenity of rainforests, and the thrill of waterfall jumps. The inclusion of snorkeling with turtles makes it especially rewarding for wildlife lovers, offering chances to see these gentle animals in their natural habitat.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers who enjoy being active and engaging with nature. Since it involves walking, water sports, and jumping into waterfalls, it’s best for those comfortable with a full day of outdoor activities. Families with children over 6 will find it manageable and rewarding, especially if they love adventure.

It’s also ideal for those who want to fill a day with multiple experiences rather than sticking to one activity or location. If you’re seeking an authentic, physically engaging Maui outing that combines wildlife, scenery, and adventure, this tour checks many boxes.

The Sum Up

The South Maui Waterfall Tour with Kayak, Snorkel, and Hike provides a well-rounded, adventure-packed day for active travelers eager to explore Maui’s wild side. From paddling in warm ocean waters to swimming alongside turtles and jumping into waterfall pools, it offers a variety of memorable moments. Guides like Jacob are frequently praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, which adds a layer of comfort and education to the fun.

This tour is priced reasonably considering the all-inclusions—gear, lunch, and expert guiding—and it’s clear that many guests leave with a sense of accomplishment and a camera full of stunning photos. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a family, or a couple craving adventure, this experience offers genuine value and authentic immersion in Maui’s natural beauty.

For those who thrive on outdoor activity, wildlife encounters, and scenic diversity, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s best suited for energetic travelers ready for a full day’s adventure and for anyone looking to go beyond the beaches and experience the island’s lush, vibrant landscapes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included? No, the tour begins and ends at Makena Landing Park. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What should I bring for the tour? You should bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and sports shoes. These will help you enjoy the water activities comfortably and safely.

Is the tour suitable for young children? The tour is not recommended for children under 6 years old, mainly due to the active nature of the activities and jumping from cliffs.

How long does the tour last? The experience lasts approximately 7.5 hours, with available start times depending on the day.

What if the weather is bad? Tours run in most weather conditions but may be altered if safety concerns arise. Guides are trained to handle various situations.

Are the guides knowledgeable? Yes, reviews specifically mention guides like Jacob for their friendliness, safety awareness, and island knowledge, making the experience educational.

Can I cancel my booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.