THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Learn to stand-up paddle and snorkel in Maui’s famed Turtle Town with a private instructor who caters to beginners and families. Paddle calm reefs off Makena Landing, search for honu, and get hands-on safety and snorkeling coaching in a sheltered Wailea bay.
Learn to stand-up paddle and snorkel in Maui’s famed Turtle Town with a private instructor who caters to beginners and families. Paddle calm reefs off Makena Landing, search for honu, and get hands-on safety and snorkeling coaching in a sheltered Wailea bay.
Waves lap against the black lava rock as the guide clips fins to the back of a paddleboard and scans the surface for a flash of slate-green shell. From Makena Landing the ocean opens into shallow coral gardens—this is Turtle Town—where Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) graze on algae and reef fish weave through fingers of branching coral.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Paddle On! Maui Private Tours · Wailea, Hawaii
Waves lap against the black lava rock as the guide clips fins to the back of a paddleboard and scans the surface for a flash of slate-green shell. From Makena Landing the ocean opens into shallow coral gardens—this is Turtle Town—where Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) graze on algae and reef fish weave through fingers of branching coral.
The coastline here is recent geology: ʻaʻa and pahoehoe lava flows from Haleakalā-era eruptions created the rocky shore and the shallow bays that shelter reefs. For centuries Native Hawaiian fishers and voyagers read these coves for food and safe anchorage; today guides pair that cultural knowledge with modern safety practices to introduce first-time paddlers to the water.
On this private lesson guests learn basic SUP stroke mechanics, board balance, and a brief snorkel introduction before paddling to snorkeling zones near the reef. Guides act as both instructor and naturalist—pointing out reef structure, identifying fish, and teaching respectful distance from turtles. The session includes a short ocean-side fruit picnic and professional photography.
Practical guidance: arrive in swimwear with a rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen, and water shoes—the beach entry can be rocky. Expect calm to moderate conditions; wind and swell change by afternoon so morning slots are best for sheltered water.
Safety note: green sea turtles are federally protected—observe from a distance and never touch. Beginners, families with small kids (age 3+), and nervous swimmers will find the private format accommodating and paced to skill level. Bring a dry bag, stay hydrated, and listen closely to your guide—the ocean rewards patience and respect.
easy.
2 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic balance and light paddling stamina helpful
No—this private lesson is tailored to beginners; guides teach basic SUP strokes, balance techniques, and an introductory snorkel orientation.
Children aged 3 and up may join; small children typically sit on the front of the board with a guide for safety.
Yes—boards, lifejackets, basic snorkel gear, and safety briefings are provided as part of the tour.
Tours are cancelled for unsafe conditions and fully refundable if cancelled at least 24 hours prior; guides will confirm the tour the evening before.
The Makena coastline sits on relatively young lava flows; local Hawaiian communities fished these waters for generations and place cultural value on marine life like honu.
The reef and turtles are protected—use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid standing on coral, and maintain distance from marine life to minimize impact.
Paddle On! Maui Private Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Waves lap against the black lava rock as the guide clips fins to the back of a paddleboard and scans the surface for a flash of slate-green shell. From Makena Landing the ocean opens into shallow coral gardens—this is Turtle Town—where Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) graze on algae and reef fish weave through fingers of branching coral.
Waves lap against the black lava rock as the guide clips fins to the back of a paddleboard and scans the surface for a flash of slate-green shell. From Makena Landing the ocean opens into shallow coral gardens—this is Turtle Town—where Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) graze on algae and reef fish weave through fingers of branching coral.
The coastline here is recent geology: ʻaʻa and pahoehoe lava flows from Haleakalā-era eruptions created the rocky shore and the shallow bays that shelter reefs. For centuries Native Hawaiian fishers and voyagers read these coves for food and safe anchorage; today guides pair that cultural knowledge with modern safety practices to introduce first-time paddlers to the water.
On this private lesson guests learn basic SUP stroke mechanics, board balance, and a brief snorkel introduction before paddling to snorkeling zones near the reef. Guides act as both instructor and naturalist—pointing out reef structure, identifying fish, and teaching respectful distance from turtles. The session includes a short ocean-side fruit picnic and professional photography.
Practical guidance: arrive in swimwear with a rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen, and water shoes—the beach entry can be rocky. Expect calm to moderate conditions; wind and swell change by afternoon so morning slots are best for sheltered water.
Safety note: green sea turtles are federally protected—observe from a distance and never touch. Beginners, families with small kids (age 3+), and nervous swimmers will find the private format accommodating and paced to skill level. Bring a dry bag, stay hydrated, and listen closely to your guide—the ocean rewards patience and respect.