Kayaking At Makena Landing Park
The MOST requested activity is snorkeling with turtles.
Kayak Makena Bay Starting At The Park
Kayaking is one of the most popular watersports at Makena Landing. Local kayak fishermen, Hobi cat sailors, and kayak enthusiasts regularly use Makena Landing as a launch site, and its a starting point for many South Maui kayak snorkel trips and whale watching. In addition to easy entry and exit, Makena Landing also provides access to the many reefs that comprise Maui’s famous “Turtle Town”. Kayakers will also appreciate the accompanying restrooms and showers – perfect for a fresh water rinse after your adventure. For the best ocean conditions and fewest crowds, go early in the morning. Strong winds have the tendency to pick up in the area by 10am and the parking lot can fill quickly. During summer months, be conscious of large south swells that can create dangerous launching conditions for kayaks.
Makena’s Underwater Highlights
Once off the beach, Makena Landing gives way to a large bay. The bay is typically calm, especially in the mornings, and offers an easy paddle. If you are new to kayaking, this is a perfect place to practice your skills before going further offshore. Most kayak trips will follow the rocky coastline to the right that terminates at Nahuna Point. Just offshore of Nahuna Point is one of Maui’s best snorkel and dive spots. The area is known by several names including “Five Caves”, “Five Graves”, “Turtle Town”, and “Turtle Arches”. Ancient underwater lava flows created a unique series of caves, grottos, and formations that are fun to explore. As the nickname suggests, Nahuna Point is also prime sea turtle habitat. Turtles are so common, in fact, that the majority of commercial tour operators will guarantee turtle sightings. Turtles can be seen feeding on limu (seaweed) or resting in one of the many underwater caves.
Explore The Entire Bay & Other Beaches
For experienced kayakers looking for added adventure, take a left as you paddle out of Makena Bay. In the distance you will see Puu Olia (“Red Hill”), a 360 foot tall volcanic cinder cone. Puu Olai is just over a mile from Makena Landing and along the way you will pass a number of great beaches and snorkel spots. Maluaka is the first large sandy beach that you will reach. If the conditions are calm you can land your kayak on the sand. The best snorkeling is to the right and left of the beach, along the rocks that extend into the ocean. Further south is Onelui Beach, located directly adjacent to Puu Olai. This is a quiet beach that is great for beating the crowds. One of the few black sand beaches on Maui, Onelui has excellent snorkeling along the north side of the beach. If the weather is calm enough, you may even be able to paddle around Puu Olai, although be aware of strong currents.
VISIT MAKENA LANDING PARK TODAY!
PARK FEATURES
Turtle Town
The Beach
& Facilities
Coastline
