Clear Kayaks Maui: Kayak Rentals on Maui’s Shores - Kahului

Clear Kayaks Maui: Kayak Rentals on Maui’s Shores

Kahuluieasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; basic paddling ability recommended.

Overview

Paddle a clear-bottom kayak in Kihei, Maui, and witness sea turtles and coral reefs from above. Clear Kayaks Maui provides easy rentals, perfect for a couple of hours on the water.

Details

Located in Kihei on the sun-drenched southwestern coast of Maui, Clear Kayaks Maui offers a distinct way to engage with Hawai‘i’s vibrant marine world — through their two-hour kayak rentals featuring clear-bottom kayaks. This experience provides a rare vantage point, allowing paddlers to glide silently over coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and to spy on sea turtles in their natural habitat. The translucent kayak hulls lift the ocean beneath into prime viewing, giving adventurers a unique, intimate connection to underwater life without the need to get wet.

Kihei itself is a hub of coastal recreation, framed by golden beaches and backed by the rugged West Maui Mountains. The region’s warm Pacific currents support rich reefs and a host of marine species, making it an ideal site for kayak-based wildlife observation. Clear Kayaks Maui stands out because it combines accessible adventure with exceptional customer service — kayaks are staged right on the beach for easy launch, complete with paddles and life jackets, so guests can set off independently yet with confidence.

The company’s friendly staff, Lucas and Chantel, guide guests on the best spots to paddle, ensuring a seamless experience whether visitors are first-timers or seasoned kayakers. The presence of a welcoming office dog, Love, adds a homey touch that customers often recall fondly. The simplicity and quality of the rental service make Clear Kayaks Maui one of the top choices for visitors wanting a relaxed yet engaging ocean experience. Ideal for families or couples, the trip balances laid-back paddling with rewarding wildlife sightings, like turtles surfacing nearby or colorful fish darting beneath.

With its prime location at Makena Landing and an easy, all-inclusive setup, Clear Kayaks Maui fits perfectly into Maui’s vibrant outdoor scene, offering a hands-on encounter with the island’s underwater ecosystems without the complexity of a guided tour. It’s a practical, joyful way to connect with Hawaii’s marine environment while soaking in remarkable coastal views.

Adventure Tips

Wear biodegradable sunscreen

Protect the reef and local wildlife by choosing reef-safe sunscreen before your kayak trip.

Bring a dry bag

A small dry bag keeps your belongings safe from splashes during your paddle.

Check local ocean conditions

Verify calm water conditions on the day to ensure a smooth and safe kayaking experience.

Use provided life jackets

Always wear the life jacket supplied by Clear Kayaks Maui for your safety on the water.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Quiet lava rock tide pools at Makena
  • Secluded beach coves accessible by paddle

Wildlife

  • Hawaiian green sea turtles
  • Reef fish such as parrotfish and butterflyfish

History

Maui’s Kihei region has long been associated with native Hawaiian fishing and navigation traditions.

Conservation

Clear Kayaks Maui emphasizes reef-friendly practices, promoting sustainable interaction with the marine environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Early morning light
Late afternoon golden hour
Midday for underwater clarity

Best Viewpoints

  • Beach launch point at Makena Landing
  • Along the reef edge
  • Near known turtle habitats

What to Photograph

Sea turtles swimming beneath kayaks
Tropical coral formations
Sunlit ocean surface reflections

Recommended Gear

Reef-safe sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin without harming delicate coral ecosystems.

summer specific

Water shoes

Provides grip and protects feet on rocky beach launches.

summer specific

Hat with a brim

Essential

Shields your face from sun while on the open water.

all specific

Dry bag

Essential

Keeps valuables like phone and camera safe from water exposure.

all specific

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