Short Answer: You can see Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) at Turtle Town (Maluaka Beach) year‑round because they forage and rest on near‑shore reefs around Maui. Sightings are common but never guaranteed. Your best bet is early morning on calm days; keep a minimum 10 ft (3 m) distance at all times and never touch, chase, or block a turtle’s path.
Last Updated: November 11, 2025
Welcome, adventurous families! If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming alongside Hawaii’s beloved green sea turtles, known locally as honu, Turtle Town Maui is one of the best places to make that dream come true. From calm, clear waters to thriving coral reefs, this special spot offers an unforgettable glimpse into Maui’s underwater world.
But when exactly is the best time to see turtles in Maui—and how can you do it responsibly? This guide covers everything you need to know, from the best time of day and conditions for turtle sightings to respectful snorkeling etiquette that helps protect these amazing creatures.
Want to know when the best time to snorkel is? Read our Best Time to Snorkel Maui (Month-by-Month) guide.
At‑a‑Glance
- Best time: Early morning (calmer surface, clearer water)
- Entry: Shore access at Maluaka; simple sandy entries when calm
- Turtles: Year‑round encounters are common
- Respectful distance: Stay at least 10 ft / 3 m from sea turtles (NOAA)
- Sunscreen: Mineral‑only required in Maui County (non‑mineral use/sale banned)
Never touch, feed, or chase turtles; use a slow, parallel swim and give them right‑of‑way.
Why Turtle Town Maui Is So Special
Turtle Town (Maluaka Beach, along Makena Road) sits on Maui’s south shore, where gentle waves and vibrant coral reefs create a perfect home for Hawaiian green sea turtles. These calm, warm waters make it one of the best year-round snorkeling spots for families, beginners, and ocean enthusiasts alike.
The turtles often rest among lava rock ledges or glide gracefully through schools of tropical fish. It’s a rare opportunity to experience marine life up close—and it’s easy to see why Turtle Town is one of Maui’s most popular snorkeling destinations.
When Is the Best Time to See Turtles in Maui?
While you can spot turtles throughout the year, certain times and conditions make sightings more likely.
Morning Windows (Year-Round)
Mornings are your best bet: lighter winds and a smoother surface mean better visibility and easier entries. Plan to be in the water early and out before the afternoon chop builds.
Seasonality = Ocean Conditions (Not Turtle Behavior)
Honu feed and rest on near‑shore reefs year‑round at Maluaka. Sightings improve when the surf is low and the winds are light. South swells—more common in summer—can stir up the south shore and reduce clarity; winter can bring Kona episodes or rain that lowers visibility.
**Check the NWS Honolulu’s Surf Forecast (HFO/SRF) and pick calm days over specific months.
See Turtles!
Join a Maui Snorkeling Tour for the chance to see the graceful sea turtles.
Turtle Town Etiquette: How to Snorkel Responsibly
Seeing turtles in their natural habitat is magical—but it’s also a privilege. Following a few simple etiquette rules helps keep Maui’s marine life safe and thriving.
1. Keep a Respectful Distance
Always stay at least 10 feet (3 meters) from turtles. Never chase, touch, or block their path. Hawaiian green sea turtles are a protected species under both federal and state law.
2. Don’t Feed or Disturb Them
Feeding or crowding turtles disrupts their natural behavior. Observing quietly allows them to stay relaxed—and it makes your encounter more authentic.
3. Use Mineral Sunscreen
Protect your skin without harming the ocean. Use mineral sunscreen (Maui County law). Non‑mineral formulas are banned without a prescription. Pack mineral sticks/lotions and consider UPF shirts to reduce lotion use. It’s a simple step that helps preserve the corals and seagrass that turtles depend on.
4. Be Aware of Ocean Conditions
Check ocean forecasts before snorkeling. Calm mornings are ideal, while afternoons can bring stronger winds. If you’re unsure, join a tour—Maui Snorkeling’s crew knows the best and safest times to visit Turtle Town.
5. Leave Only Bubbles
Avoid standing on coral, taking shells, or leaving trash. Everything you see underwater plays an important role in Maui’s delicate marine ecosystem.
NOAA Marine Wildlife Hotline: (888) 256‑9840
DLNR DOCARE Enforcement: 643‑DLNR (808‑643‑3567)
Maui Snorkeling Tours: Experience Turtle Town the Best Way
The easiest and safest way to see turtles is by joining a Maui Snorkeling Tour. Our Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour runs daily and includes:
- 5-hour morning tour from 7 AM to 12 PM
- Snorkel two top spots: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town, Maui
- All-inclusive experience with breakfast, lunch, and snorkel gear
- Waterslide fun for kids and adults
- Guided help from experienced crew who know where turtles hang out
Prefer a shorter trip? Try our Afternoon Coral Gardens Tour (1 PM–4 PM), another excellent way to see Maui’s coral reefs and tropical fish with fewer crowds.
Visit Molokini Crater and Turtle Town!
Join a Maui Snorkeling Tour to see the famous Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.
What You Might See at Turtle Town
- Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu) – graceful, peaceful icons of Hawaii
- Colorful Reef Fish – butterflyfish, parrotfish, and tangs in every hue
- Coral Gardens – living structures that shelter hundreds of marine species
- Occasional Manta Rays or Monk Seals – rare but unforgettable surprises
Each visit brings new wonders. Even if you’ve snorkeled before, no two days at Turtle Town are ever the same.
Family Tips for the Perfect Turtle Town Day
- Arrive early for the best visibility and calmest waters.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen, water, towels, and a waterproof camera.
- Use flotation devices for kids or beginners.
- Listen to your guides—they’ll help your family spot turtles safely.
Every encounter here can be both fun and educational. Kids love learning how marine ecosystems work and why protecting sea turtles is so important.
FAQs
Are there turtles at Turtle Town all year?
Yes—Maui’s honu are year‑round because they feed and rest on near‑shore reefs. Sightings are common but never guaranteed.
Is there a “baby turtle season” at Turtle Town?
No. ~96% of Hawaiian green turtles nest at French Frigate Shoals (Lalo) in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Hatchlings on Maui are rare; if you see active nesting/hatching, keep away and call the (888) 256‑9840 hotline.
What time of day is best to see turtles?
Early morning on calm days—winds typically strengthen by afternoon, which can reduce visibility.
How close can I get to a turtle?
Follow the 10‑ft (3‑m) rule in Hawaiʻi—on land and in water. Never touch, chase, block, or feed.
Where exactly is Turtle Town?
“Turtle Town” refers to Maluaka Beach in Makena, South Maui. Our guide to Maluaka Beach provides directions, access, and entry tips.
Final Thoughts: Turtle Encounters You’ll Treasure Forever
Turtle Town Maui is a place where families connect with nature, learn about ocean conservation, and make lifelong memories.
The best time to see turtles is in the morning hours all year round, when the ocean is calmest and clearest. Follow the simple etiquette above, and your family will enjoy safe, respectful encounters that leave the turtles undisturbed and the reefs thriving.
So pack your snorkel gear, bring your sense of wonder, and come meet the honu of Maui—nature’s gentle ambassadors of aloha. 🌺
Ready to Dive into Adventure?
Start planning your family’s amazing trip to Maui today. Get ready to be amazed by the ocean’s wonders. Remember, the best times to see marine life in Maui are waiting for you!
