South Maui SUP Adventures with Maui SUP Adventures - Kahului

South Maui SUP Adventures with Maui SUP Adventures

Kahuluieasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; standing balance and basic swimming ability recommended.

Overview

Paddle through the calm, clear waters of South Maui with Maui SUP Adventures. From beginner lessons to scenic coastal tours and snorkeling with sea turtles, these guided SUP trips offer an unforgettable taste of Hawaii’s marine life and coastal geology.

Details

The golden beaches of Kihei, located on the sun-soaked southwest shore of Maui, Hawaii, present an unbeatable playground for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) enthusiasts. Maui SUP Adventures offers a trio of standout experiences along South Maui’s sparkling coastline, giving adventurers access to both the thrill of paddling and the stunning marine life just beneath the surface.

South Maui’s waters are remarkably calm and clear, ideal for newcomers and seasoned paddlers alike. The South Maui SUP Coastal Sightseeing trip allows guests to quietly glide past lava rock formations and sandy coves while spotting native wildlife like green sea turtles and reef fish darting nearby. The geology here includes basaltic lava cliffs sculpted by centuries of volcanic activity, offering an impressive contrast between rugged black rock and vivid turquoise waters.

For those new to SUP or wanting to sharpen their technique, the South Maui SUP Lesson provides hands-on instruction, combining basic paddling skills with ocean awareness to build confidence on every stroke. This educational element makes it a great entry point to safely enjoy the ocean’s rhythm.

The South Maui SUP & Snorkel Adventure pairs paddling with underwater discovery, guiding guests to vibrant coral reefs where colorful fish and sea turtles congregate. This blend of ocean activities highlights the area’s rich marine ecosystem, protected within Hawaii’s conservation efforts. Local lore honors the sea turtles as carefully respected guardians of these coastal waters, adding a layer of cultural depth to these expeditions.

Maui SUP Adventures is more than a tour company—it’s a gateway to South Maui’s coastal wilderness, welcoming all skill levels to experience the ocean’s peaceful power and visual feast. Their intimate group sizes and knowledgeable guides elevate the experience beyond a casual paddle, making it a vital piece of Maui’s active outdoor recreation scene.

Adventure Tips

Wear reef-safe sunscreen

Protect yourself and the local marine life by using eco-friendly sunscreen that won’t damage coral reefs.

Check local ocean conditions

South Maui's waters are generally calm but can change; always verify weather and surf reports before heading out.

Arrive early to avoid crowds

Morning departures often have smoother waters and less boat traffic, providing a better paddling experience.

Stay hydrated

Hawaiian sun can be intense; bring water and drink regularly to avoid dehydration out on the water.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Calm coves near Makena Landing
  • Lava rock tide pools perfect for close marine observation

Wildlife

  • Green sea turtles (honu)
  • Humuhumunukunukuapuaʻa (Hawaiian reef triggerfish)

History

The southwest Maui coastline was historically a fishing area for Native Hawaiians, with ancient fishponds nearby still visible in some spots.

Conservation

Locals and tour operators emphasize ocean stewardship, advocating reef-safe products and educating visitors on minimizing human impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Mid-morning
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Maluaka Beach shoreline
  • Near lava rock formations
  • From the deck of a paddleboard

What to Photograph

Sea turtles
Coral reefs underwater
Volcanic coastline

Recommended Gear

Reef-safe sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin and helps preserve coral reef health during sun exposure.

summer specific

Quick-dry clothing

Essential

Lightweight and fast-drying clothes keep you comfortable on and off the water.

summer specific

Water shoes

Helpful for rocky shore entries and exits during coastal stops.

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is critical under Hawaii’s sun during extended outdoor activity.