Clear Kayak & Snorkel Tours in Olowalu by Gabriel's Ohana

Off the coast of Kahului, Hawaii, Olowalu Bay offers a rare chance to paddle and snorkel above one of Maui’s most vibrant coral reefs. Gabriel’s Ohana specializes in clear kayak adventures and guided snorkel tours that bring you close to the marine life flourishing beneath crystal waters. Forget traditional kayaks — here, clear hulls and pontoon attachments provide an unmatched window into the ocean’s dynamic ecosystem, letting you watch parrotfish, surgeonfish, and sea turtles glide beneath you as you paddle with ease. By night, their Sunset and Glow Clear Kayak Tours reveal phosphorescent waters and a completely different underwater world lit by bioluminescence. It’s an experience that blends the thrill of the ocean with a sense of calm immersion few other tour operators offer.

Located on Maui’s western shore near Kahului, Olowalu Bay is prized for its coral formations and healthy reef system. The volcanic seafloor creates fascinating underwater terrain, with pockets of lava rock and vibrant coral heads teeming with marine diversity. Gabriel’s Ohana’s whale watch kayak trips add a seasonal highlight from December through April, when humpback whales migrate through these waters. On guided snorkel tours geared toward beginners, expert instructors loan first-class snorkel gear and provide hands-on tips, helping newcomers build confidence and enjoy safe, memorable interactions with the reef.

What sets Gabriel’s Ohana apart is their commitment to combining environmental respect with personalized service. Their small-group tours create a relaxed atmosphere that minimizes reef disturbance and maximizes learning about local ecology. This approach supports ongoing reef conservation efforts essential to sustaining Maui’s underwater habitats. Whether you’re paddling above coral gardens, snorkeling with tropical fish, or watching whales breach against a backdrop of volcanic cliffs, Gabriel’s Ohana delivers an authentic connection to Hawaii’s marine wonders just outside Kahului.