Hawaii (Big) Island– The Kohala Coast might be one of the most abundant areas for Hawaiian green sea turtles. We've seen many both above and below the water.
People Also Ask
One of the best times of the year to see Hawaiian green turtles in the wild is in the summer – they love the calmer waters and soaking up the sun, just like most vacationers do. Here, discover the best places to see turtles in Oahu, and how to stay safe and considerate while you're turtle sightseeing.
Maluaka Beach (AKA Turtle Town)Fronting the Maui Prince Hotel in the South Maui town of Kihei, Maluaka Beach is the ultimate destination for impromptu turtle encounters - so much so that the whole surrounding area is nicknamed “Turtle Town.”
Turtle nesting season in Hawaii is typically mid-April through early October, but can sometimes extend into December. And you're probably wondering when the sea turtles hatch? After about two months in their nests, hatchlings will emerge.
The green sea turtle is by far the most commonly encountered sea turtle on Hawaiian reefs, followed by the hawksbill. Olive ridley, leatherback, and loggerheads are typically found in deeper, offshore waters and are rarely seen by the average ocean-goer.
'Turtle Island' is the name for the lands now known as North and Central America. It is a name used by some Indigenous peoples who believe their land was formed on the back of a turtle. Though regional versions exist, the core of this creation story relates to a time when the planet was covered in water.
July to October is the peak nesting and hatching period for green sea turtles in locations such as Tortuguero National Park, whereas it's March to October for the hawksbill turtle, which prefers the Caribbean coast and can nest up to four times each season.
However, most would agree that the true Turtle Town is at Maluaka Beach about 20 minutes south of Kihei. Maluaka Beach is easily one of Maui's best-kept secrets and certainly a hidden gem for snorkeling. This is the best spot to see turtles on the island with virtually no crowds.
Swimming with Turtles in Hawaii Wrap UpThe islands of Oahu and Maui provide plenty of opportunities to not only spot but even swim with sea turtles. It's an unforgettable experience that you'll be able to share with your family and friends back home.
Please help protect these beautiful animals. Stay back 10 feet or more when watching sea turtles in the ocean or on land. Yes, on land — Maui's green turtles can often be sighted basking on quiet beaches, usually in the evenings and mornings. Get Maui snorkeling and diving tips.