Where to See Sea Turtles While Snorkeling in Hawaii
One of the most magical experiences when visiting Hawaii is spotting magnificent green sea turtles in the wild. If you’re wishing to see sea turtles while snorkeling in Hawaii, look no further than Maui. Here, opportunities abound to spend time with these beautiful animals.
Honu, as turtles are known in Hawaiian, are revered as sacred creatures and are seen as symbols of good luck. Some even consider honu to be family guardians, or ‘Aumakua. They’re protected under federal and state laws, so we do not touch them, and always maintain at least 10 feet distance when spending time in their habitat.
Whether you’re snorkeling, paddling, walking, or boating, we’re going to tell you the top secret places to see turtles on Maui. Read on for the best tips to experience sea turtles above and below the surface, safely and respectfully.
Where to See Sea Turtles While Snorkeling in Hawaii
There are literally dozens of places on Maui to swim and snorkel alongside turtles! While they are free to roam and sightings are never guaranteed, ‘Turtle Town’ is a pretty safe bet. A favorite stop for many visitors, Turtle Town refers to the area between Makena Landing and Maluaka Beach in South Maui. Turtle Town is a a popular stop for guided snorkel tours, for good reason. Here you’ll find calm waters, accessible entry points to the sea and abundance of honu.
In West Maui, Honolua Bay and Black Rock on Kaanapali Beach are visitor and local favorites. Honolua Bay is a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The lush, underwater reef offers crystal clear visibility that turtles adore. The bay is part of a Marine Life Conservation District, prohibiting fishing and helping turtles and other sea life thrive.
With access from Kaanapali Beach, Black Rock is an easy entry point for swimming and snorkeling with turtles on Maui. Look to the rocky reef on your right when you enter the water from the beach to spot turtles here 😉
Boating & Paddling Adventures to find Turtles on Maui
For a different vantage point and more adventure, a boat tour is a great way to experience turtles and other marine life up close. Many boat tours on Maui visit both Molokini Crater and Turtle Arches. Famous for its crescent shape, Molokini Crater is protected from waves and currents, so clarity can go as deep as 150 feet. Turtle Arches features lava formations where turtles rest underwater.
Makena Landing is another popular place for turtle viewing. Because you’re closer to the water when kayaking or paddle boarding, you’ll get a unique ocean-level view. Snorkel tours will take you to hidden spots you may not otherwise find when exploring on your own, including areas rich with marine life.
Spotting Sea Turtles from Shore
You don’t have to get wet to see a honu! Sea turtles are visible in many places around Maui: sleeping on the sand, swimming around reefs, or popping their cute heads up as they surface to breathe.
Ho’okipa Beach on the North Shore of Maui is one of the most reliable places to see turtles sunbathing on the sand. They often gather at sunset, so evening is a great time to plan a visit. Be sure to stay behind signs and ropes, giving the turtles plenty of space.
Napili Bay is another West Maui destination where you can see turtles from the beach. Watch from the sand or tide pools; the clear, calm waters often bring honu close to shore.
Ka’anapali Beach Boardwalk, Kapalua Coastal Trail, and the Wailea Beach Path are also easy, accessible walkways to watch turtles from the comfort of the shoreline. These are great options if you’re staying at nearby resorts. Look for honu close to rocky reefs. Sunrise and sunset are great times to spot turtles!
Where to See Sea Turtles on Kauai
Not on Maui? No problem! Sea turtles love all the Hawaiian islands. Here are some of the best beaches with high probability of turtle encounters while snorkeling on Kauai:
- Ke’e Beach
- Tunnels
- Poipu
- Lawai Beach
Check out our full list of the best snorkeling beaches on Kauai.
Where to See Sea Turtles on the Big Island
While there are many beautiful beaches to explore, these are our top spots for snorkeling with sea turtles on the Big Island:
- Honokohau Beach
- Kahalu’u Beach Park
- Kealakekua Bay
- Honaunau Bay
Tips for Responsible Turtle Watching in Hawaii
- Remember to keep a safe distance from turtles – at least 10 feet in water or on land.
- Never touch, feed, or chase turtles.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the habitat that turtles depend on.
- Respect posted signage and any volunteers protecting turtles, especially in areas where eggs are hatching.
Seeing turtles in Hawaii is a memorable and meaningful experience! However you see them, take your time, be respectful, and let the magic of the honu come to you!
