Maui, with its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, is not just a paradise for sun-seekers, surfers, and snorkelers, but also a sanctuary for one of the ocean’s most enchanting creatures: the Hawaiian green sea turtle, known locally as “Honu.” These ancient mariners, admired in Hawaiian culture for their wisdom and longevity, offer a unique wildlife experience to the island’s visitors. This guide takes you through Hawaiian green sea turtle facts and the top 5 spots in Maui where these gentle reptiles grace the waters and shores, providing tips for respectful wildlife viewing along the way.
Did You Know? Fun Facts about Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
Among the seven distinct species of sea turtles globally, Honu are distinguished by their considerable size, with adults commonly reaching up to four feet in length and weighing 300 pounds or more, making them the largest hard-shelled sea turtles worldwide. The life span of a Hawaiian green sea turtle is 60-70 years while not reaching maturity until 25-35 years!
The name “Honu” for the Hawaiian green sea turtle is not derived from the varied hues of its shell, which can range from brown and grey to black or dark olive. Instead, it refers to the greenish color of the turtle’s subcutaneous fat, located just beneath its skin. What do Hawaiian green sea turtles eat you might ask? In adulthood, these turtles predominantly feed on algae that grow on lava rocks and seagrasses. This diet is responsible for the green hue of their internal fat layer.
Remarkably, Hawaiian green sea turtles are equipped with lungs that are two-thirds the length of their shell, enabling them to undertake extended dives beneath the water’s surface. The duration of these dives can span several hours, contingent upon the turtle’s size, with the longest documented dive lasting up to five hours—an impressive feat of aquatic endurance.
The Hawaiian green sea turtle’s journey intersects with conservation efforts, underscored by their status as a protected species under United States law. Recognized as endangered, stringent regulations safeguard these turtles from harm or harassment, extending to prohibitions against physical contact, whether they find solace in the ocean’s embrace or stay on the sun-warmed sands.
Hawaii’s dedication to safeguarding its environment has yielded significant outcomes, notably in the thriving numbers of the Hawaiian green sea turtle. This revival is a testament to the effective combination of cultural devotion and environmental conservation efforts.
Top 5 Places to See Sea Turtles
1. Turtle Town: (Maluaka Beach)
Nestled between Nahuna Point and Black Sand Beach, Turtle Town is famously associated with Maluaka Beach. This snorkeler’s paradise is packed with Hawaiian green sea turtles, thanks to its underwater volcanic formations that attract these creatures. The calm, blue waters beckon visitors of all ages to dive in and discover an underwater world filled with vibrant marine life such as tropical fish, coral, and, of course, the stars of the show are the serene Hawaiian green sea turtles.
The waters in Turtle Town are known for their clarity and calmness, making it suitable for snorkelers of all skill levels. Visibility is generally good, allowing for excellent views of the underwater ecosystem. While turtles can be seen year-round, the best time to visit Turtle Town for snorkeling is during the morning when the waters are usually calmer, and the visibility is better. It’s also less crowded, providing a more intimate experience with marine life.
Read more about Turtle Town!
2. Black Rock Beach
At the north end of Ka’anapali Beach lies Black Rock Beach, a hotspot for snorkeling, cliff diving, and turtle watching. Early mornings are magical, as the beach is quieter, and the turtles are often seen gliding through the water. Remember, the early bird catches the unforgettable sight of the Honu in their natural habitat.
The beach is divided by a large lava rock formation, which is a hub for marine life, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Visitors often explore the southern side of the rock due to its easy access and the abundance of fish and coral in the area. However, the open ocean-facing side of Black Rock offers even better underwater sights, with vibrant coral, colorful fish, and Hawaiian sea turtles, though it’s recommended to swim here only when the ocean is calm due to strong currents and surges.
3. Ulua Beach
Ideal for beginners and families, Ulua Beach, situated in the luxurious Wailea resort complex on Maui’s south shore, has calm waters and rocky outcroppings that provide a sanctuary for sea turtles. The beach is popular for its accessibility and the high chance of Hawaiian green sea turtle sightings, making it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists.
The mornings at Ulua Beach are particularly recommended for snorkeling due to the calm water conditions and high visibility, which decrease in the afternoon as the winds pick up, making the ocean choppy. The right (north) side of the beach near the rocky outcrop is noted for the best snorkeling opportunities, where snorkelers can explore vibrant marine life including colorful corals and fish. Despite its popularity, it’s important to arrive early as the parking lot tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
4. Coral Gardens
Coral Gardens, located on the west side of Maui, near the coastline along the Pali Highway Mountain Pass before Olowalu, is celebrated as one of Maui’s premier snorkeling destinations. This natural reef formation, nestled in a protected bay, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and spectacular coral formations, making it an elite and private snorkeling spot. Protected from wind and rough seas by surrounding cliff lines, Coral Gardens provides an ideal environment for both beginner and intermediate snorkelers to explore underwater wonders in calm conditions.
The area is particularly known for its diverse array of colorful tropical fish and frequent sightings of sea turtles. The turtles are often seen feeding close to the shoreline, making Coral Gardens a fantastic spot for snorkelers hoping to encounter these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. It’s important to remember that while you can swim with the turtles, touching them is not allowed to protect their natural environment and well-being.
For those interested in visiting, Coral Gardens is best accessed by boat due to its location and the protection it offers from Maui’s coastal winds. The experience is often described as breathtaking, with visibility reaching up to 40 feet, allowing snorkelers to fully appreciate the underwater beauty of this Maui gem.
Read more about Coral Gardens!
5. Hanakao’o Park
Away from the bustling tourist spots, Hanakao’o Park, nestled on the southern edge of the renowned Ka’anapali Beach on Maui’s west shore, offers a quieter setting to encounter sea turtles and migrating whales during season. Its location away from the more popular Black Rock Beach means fewer crowds and more turtles, especially before noon.
Aside from swimming and snorkeling, Hanaka’o’o Park offers numerous water sports opportunities due to its canoe clubhouse and paddleboard rentals. The picturesque setting serves as an ideal backdrop for those looking to relax on the beach or capture stunning sunset photos.
See Honu on Maui Snorkeling Boat Tours
The prime destination for our Maui Snorkeling Tours is the iconic Molokini Crater, yet our adventures extend beyond to include visits to Turtle Town and Coral Gardens. These additional spots are renowned for their abundant Maui sea turtles, offering a broader scope of marine life observation.
Our all-inclusive tours feature a 5-hour morning adventure to Molokini Crater and Turtle Town or Coral Gardens, and a 3-hour afternoon journey to Molokini Crater (weather permitting). These snorkeling experiences are designed to cater to participants of all ages and skill levels, with special pricing for Kama’aina (local residents). Children under the age of 4 join for free, underlining our commitment to family-friendly adventures.
Each Maui Snorkeling Tour Package also caters to your comfort and convenience with included meals, snacks, and a variety of beverages like coffee, tea, juices, and soft drinks. For your snorkeling experience, you’re equipped with top-notch gear including snorkels, fins, optical masks, and flotation belts. Added fun elements like boogie boards, a 25-foot water slide, and swimming noodles ensure there’s never a dull moment. Get ready to dive into the best that Maui has to offer and secure your spot on one of our snorkeling tours today!
Conserving the Beauty: A Note on Respect and Protection
The enchantment of encountering green sea turtles in their natural habitat comes with a responsibility. These creatures are protected under state and federal laws, and it’s crucial to maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing their natural behaviors. When snorkeling or observing turtles, always remember that we are guests in their home.
Embarking on Your Hawaiian Sea Turtles Adventure
Maui’s shores and waters offer unparalleled opportunities to witness the beauty of green sea turtles. Whether you’re on a Maui Snorkeling Boat Tour and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Turtle Town or Coral Gardens, watching turtles nap at Hanakao’o Park, each experience is a testament to the island’s profound connection to marine life.
As you plan your journey to these treasured parts of the globe, Maui calls not only to the lover of surf and sand but to the loyal advocates for the ocean’s ancient wanderers, the Hawaiian green sea turtles. Setting out to visit the top 5 locations in Maui to observe these endearing sea turtles is far more than just a vacation itinerary; it represents an homage to the splendor of the natural world and the stories that are intricately woven into the lives of these marine inhabitants.
Book a Maui Snorkeling Tour
Reserve your spot on a tour now and witness the majestic Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural habitat!