Is prior paddling experience necessary?

No, the guides provide basic instruction and the outrigger canoe is stable enough for beginners.

What is the age requirement for this tour?

There is no minimum age as long as a responsible adult accompanies children.

Are snorkeling gear and safety equipment included?

Yes, snorkeling masks, fins, and life vests are provided for all participants.

How close can we get to the turtles?

Guides ensure respectful distances to avoid disturbing the turtles while allowing excellent viewing.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Tours may be rescheduled or canceled for safety reasons; Maui Pacific Tours will notify you in advance.

Is transportation provided to the launch site?

Guests are responsible for their own transport; parking is available at or near Grand Wailea Beach.

Swim with Turtles on Maui’s South Shore | Maui Pacific Tours | Guided Tour | Snorkel

Maui’s South shore, specifically Wailea-Makena on the island of Hawaii, offers rare access to one of the archipelago’s most captivating wildlife encounters: swimming alongside native Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu). Maui Pacific Tours delivers this experience through their Grand Wailea Swim with the Turtles outrigger canoe trip, launching right from the iconic Grand Wailea Beach. This focused one-hour adventure moves beyond typical tourism by combining traditional Hawaiian paddling culture with intimate, small-group water interaction.

From the moment your sturdy outrigger canoe glides over the clear, reef-studded waters, you’ll sense the unique connection this place holds. Wailea Beach sits below rugged lava rock formations from ancient volcanic flows, lending texture to the shoreline and critical habitat to honu that thrive here. Skilled guides steer paddlers through relatively calm coastal breaks, spotlighting coral reefs alive with tropical fish. When you slip into the cool ocean, the turtles—often basking or cruising slowly—invite you to share their domain with gentle ease.

Maui Pacific Tours’ approach respects the fragile ecosystem and local customs, keeping group sizes small to minimize disturbance while maximizing personal interactions. Their guides provide not only safety but insights about turtle behavior and Hawaiian marine stewardship practices, making the trip an enriching blend of education and adventure.

For those seeking a blend of Hawaiian tradition, natural wonder, and hands-on wildlife experience near a world-class resort setting, this tour stands out. Wailea-Makena’s marine environment and Maui Pacific Tours’ knowledgeable operation create a rare chance to witness a living symbol of Hawaiian coastal life in a responsible, memorable way.

About Maui Pacific Tours

Maui Pacific Tours is a Wailea-Makena, Hawaii–based tour operator specializing in outrigger canoe experiences along Maui’s South shores. The operator runs private and small-group paddling tours that combine Hawaiian paddling culture with marine wildlife viewing.

Trips include two-hour snorkel outrigger canoe tours from the Andaz and Grand Wailea, one-hour swim-with-the-turtles excursions, and two-hour whale-watch outings. Each tour departs from resort-adjacent beaches and focuses on close encounters with Hawaiian green sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and seasonal humpback whales.

Expert paddlers and guides lead each adventure, handling canoe operation, navigation, and guest briefings before water entry. Tours emphasize safety, respect for marine life, and a family-friendly pace suitable for a broad range of ages and swimming abilities.

Maui Pacific Tours uses traditional outrigger canoes for a stable, cultural paddling platform that allows guests to approach snorkeling sites and wildlife with minimal footprint. Private canoe charters provide an intimate setting for families and small groups seeking a more personal experience on the water.

Reservations are arranged per tour type and duration, with options for short turtle swims and longer snorkel or whale-watch trips. Guests can expect guided snorkeling with opportunities to see sea turtles and reef life during the warmer months, and whale-watching encounters in the humpback season.

Maui Pacific Tours focuses on delivering memorable, educational ocean outings rooted in Hawaiian paddling tradition and responsible wildlife viewing. Tours depart from Wailea-Makena resort beaches and operate along the South Maui coastline, with launches near the Andaz and Grand Wailea resort properties for families.

Swim with Turtles on Maui’s South Shore | Maui Pacific Tours

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