Which Hawaiian island has the most sea turtles?

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. We have seen them from many snorkeling tours as well as from the beaches and ocean around the Fairmont Orchid, Hilton Waikoloa and the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel.



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.

MORE DETAILS

Ali?i Beach Park is located in the historic Haleiwa town, and probably one of the best places to check out sea turtles, besides Turtle Bay Resort. The shallow water and reefs close to the shore showcase the sea creatures feeding on seaweed and coming up for air. (Or simply napping on the shore.)

MORE DETAILS

'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.

MORE DETAILS

Where to Swim and Snorkel with Turtles on Oahu
  • Laniakea Beach (aka Turtle Beach)– To Swim with Turtles on Oahu's North Shore.
  • Electric Beach (aka Kahe Point) — For Swimming with Turtles on Oahu's West Side.
  • Cockroach Cove (aka Kaupo Bay) — An Oahu South Shore Beach for Swimming with Turtles.


MORE DETAILS

NOAA and DLNR recommend, for your safety and the animals' protection, that everyone stay at least 10 feet (3 meters) from all sea turtles.

MORE DETAILS

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.”

MORE DETAILS

But it's common for snorkelers and divers on all the islands to see the honu (green sea turtle) in near shore waters. 96% of Hawai?i's green sea turtles nest in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, the largest fully protected conservation area under the U.S. flag.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

Most nesting sea turtle species come ashore at night, alone, and often during high tide. Some species, such as the Kemp's ridley, nest during the day and generally emerge from the ocean by the hundreds to lay their nests in a mass nesting event called an arribada or arrival.

MORE DETAILS

When you see a sea turtle, keep a respectful distance. The State of Hawaii's DLNR recommends a 6- to 10-foot buffer, but we recommend a larger buffer to help protect the turtles. Never touch or chase sea turtles, as it is extremely disrespectful and irresponsible.

MORE DETAILS