One of the most unforgettable experiences of visiting the Hawaiian Islands is the chance to see sea turtles in their natural habitat. The most common species of sea turtle in Hawaii is the Green Sea Turtle or Honu.  There’s something truly special about spotting one of these gentle creatures gliding effortlessly through the water—sometimes right next to you as you snorkel! Our trips to the Hawaiian Islands have been filled with magical moments like these, where we’ve unexpectedly found ourselves in the company of these amazing animals.

An Unforgettable Snorkeling Experience:

Many times, while exploring the crystal-clear waters of Hawaii, we’ve been pleasantly surprised to see a turtle swimming gracefully beside us. Their slow, deliberate movements and peaceful demeanor make every encounter feel almost surreal, as if time slows down just for a moment.

Whether you’re snorkeling in Maui, Oahu, Kauai, or the Big Island, there are countless opportunities to observe these amazing animals. And the best part? You don’t always have to be in the water to see them. Many turtles can be spotted from shore, lazily basking in the sun or floating near the surface. Sometimes you’ll see 1 catching the rays of the afternoon sun and other times you’ll see dozens!  It is truly a sight to behold and one I can never tire of.  They look like giant rocks on the beach!

On a family trip to Oahu in 2021, we had just checked into the Sheraton Waikiki on the 14th floor and I walked out onto our balcony and immediately spotted a turtle in the water in front of the infinity pool. It was then that I became enamored by them.  A few weeks later in Maui, we were swimming near the shore at a beach in Makena and I was greeted (and quite honestly stunned!) by a beautiful green sea turtle that swam right next to me!  After I enjoyed the moment and caught my breath, I left the water to grab my snorkel and camera (with zoom lens) and went back in the water.

           

Respecting the Turtles: Look, Don’t Touch!

It’s important to remember that sea turtles are protected in Hawaii, and there are strict regulations in place to ensure their safety. When you encounter a turtle, you must stay at least 10-25 feet away—no touching, feeding, or interfering with their natural behavior.

All photos I’ve taken of these stunning creatures were captured responsibly, either using a zoom lens, while snorkeling as a turtle swam near us, or from a respectful distance on shore. By following these guidelines, we can help preserve the delicate balance of Hawaii’s marine ecosystem.

Best Places to Spot Sea Turtles in Hawaii

If you’re eager to witness these beautiful creatures in the wild, here are some of the top spots across the islands:

Maui

📍🐢 Ho‘okipa Beach—Great for spotting turtles basking in the sun on the beach.

📍🐢 Ku’au Bay Beach Park—A hidden cove area with frequent turtles on the beach.

📍🐢 Turtle Town—A popular snorkeling destination with an abundance of turtles.

Oahu

📍🐢 Laniakea Beach—Famously known as “Turtle Beach,” where turtles gather onshore.

Kauai

📍🐢 Kipu Kai Beach—A pristine, secluded beach perfect for turtle spotting.

📍🐢 Napali Coast—Best explored via boat snorkel tours for incredible marine life encounters.

Hawaii Island (Big Island)

📍🐢 Kahaluu Beach Park—A favorite for snorkelers and turtle lovers alike.

📍🐢 Carlsmith Beach Park—Turtles are often spotted in the watering holes of this park

Final Thoughts: A Cherished Hawaiian Tradition

Spotting sea turtles has truly been a highlight of our trips to the Hawaiian Islands. Their presence adds to the magic of the Islands, making every beach day or snorkeling adventure feel extraordinary. By respecting their space and following conservation guidelines, we can ensure that future generations will continue to experience the wonder of swimming alongside these incredible animals.

Have you ever had a close encounter with a sea turtle in Hawaii?

Reach out to your MDT Advisor to plan your turtle adventure in the Hawaiian Islands and experience the joy of observing the Green Sea Turtle.

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