Maui, with its stunning beaches and vibrant waters, is a haven for marine life enthusiasts. Among the many underwater wonders, Hawaiian green sea turtles, or honu, are a favorite sight for snorkelers and divers alike. These majestic creatures can be seen gliding gracefully through the water, feeding on seagrass, or basking on the sandy shores. To maximize your chances of encountering these gentle giants, here are some of the best places around Maui to see sea turtles.
1. Maluaka Beach
A family friendly, long and sandy beach with good snorkeling and facilities.
Maluaka Beach is part of an area often referred to as “Turtle Town” due to its frequent turtle sightings. The calm, clear waters and rich marine environment make it an ideal spot for snorkeling. Turtles are often seen grazing on the seagrass beds or resting on the sandy bottom. The reef is teeming with colorful fish and coral, making every snorkel session a visual feast. Maluaka Beach is family-friendly with its gentle waves and accessible facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.
2. Makena Landing
A small park with good facilities and easy access to snorkeling and paddle boarding.
Makena Landing is another fantastic location for sea turtle sightings. It is also part of the “Turtle Town” area, famous for its diverse underwater topography, including rocky outcrops and coral reefs. Turtles are frequently spotted here, along with a variety of fish species. Check out our more detailed guide for snorkeling out to the prime turtle town spot here. The calm, shallow waters make it an ideal spot for beginners and families. Kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding are also popular activities at Makena Landing, providing additional opportunities to spot turtles from above the water.
3. Black Rock, Ka’anapali
Popular, family-friendly beach for all ocean recreation. Can be extremely popular.
Black Rock, located at the northern end of Ka’anapali Beach, is a famous snorkeling spot with frequent turtle sightings. The rocky point creates an underwater world filled with crevices and hiding spots for marine life. Turtles are often seen swimming around the rock or resting on the sandy bottom. The area is easily accessible and offers a vibrant mix of fish, coral, and other marine creatures. The nearby hotels and resorts make Black Rock a convenient spot for visitors staying in Ka’anapali.
4. Olowalu Reef
Explore Maui’s “mother reef” with easy beach access and typically gentle waters.
Olowalu Reef, also known as “Turtle Reef,” is located along the Honoapiilani Highway, just south of Lahaina. This extensive reef system is home to a significant population of sea turtles. The shallow waters and abundant coral provide an ideal habitat for these creatures. Snorkelers can expect to see turtles grazing on algae-covered rocks and swimming through the clear waters. The reef’s proximity to the shore makes it easily accessible for snorkelers of all skill levels.
5. Ulua Beach
Smaller, sandy beach with snorkeling at each end, and good facilities.
Ulua Beach in Wailea is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, with frequent turtle sightings. The beach is known for its calm, clear waters and beautiful coral formations. Turtles can often be seen near the reef, feeding or resting. The beach is family-friendly and offers amenities such as showers, restrooms, and picnic areas. The nearby parking and easy access make Ulua Beach a convenient choice for a day of snorkeling.
6. Honolua Bay
A must-see for intermediate to advanced snorkelers. Trail access and no beach.
Honolua Bay, located on Maui’s northwest coast, is a marine sanctuary that offers some of the best snorkeling and diving experiences on the island. The bay’s crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs attract a wide variety of marine life, including sea turtles. The underwater visibility is excellent, allowing snorkelers to see turtles and other marine creatures in their natural habitat.
7. Kapalua Bay
Popular bay that offers some shelter from wind/waves for snorkeling, paddle boarding, and family beach days.
Kapalua Bay is renowned for its calm waters and pristine conditions, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling and sea turtle sightings. The bay’s reef extends from both sides, creating a protected area where turtles and other marine life thrive. Early morning is the best time to visit, as the water is calm and the visibility is at its best. Turtles can often be seen near the rocky areas, feeding or swimming gracefully through the bay.
8. Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve
A rugged, pristine snorkeling gem in one of Maui’s marine preserves.
The Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve, located south of Makena, is a protected marine reserve that offers pristine snorkeling conditions. The reserve’s rocky coastline and clear waters provide a perfect habitat for sea turtles. Snorkelers can expect to see turtles feeding on the abundant algae and swimming through the crystal-clear waters. The area is also home to a variety of fish, coral, and other marine life, making it a rich and diverse snorkeling destination.
9. Honokeana Bay
Honokeana Bay, neighboring Napili Bay, is a lesser-known gem for sea turtle encounters. The cove’s rocky shoreline and underwater terrain create a perfect habitat for turtles. Accessing the cove can be a bit challenging, but the reward is worth it. Snorkelers can expect to see turtles feeding on algae and swimming through the clear waters. The cove is also home to a variety of fish and other marine life, offering an immersive snorkeling experience.
10. Ho’okipa Beach Park
Ho’okipa Beach Park, located on Maui’s north shore, is a fantastic spot for observing sea turtles in their natural habitat. Known primarily for its surfing conditions, Ho’okipa also serves as a sanctuary for green sea turtles. On rare occasions in the summer months, Ho’okipa’s waters might be calm enough to snorkel. However, most of the time the sea turtle viewing at Ho’okipa will be best from shore near the first lifeguard tower. Sea turtles gather in that corner of the beach to rest, sometimes in excitingly large numbers!
Tips for Turtle Encounters
Snorkeling with sea turtles or seeing them on the beach is a magical experience. However, it’s vitally important to their health to remember to respect them and their natural habitat. Here are a few tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable encounter:
- Keep Your Distance: Maintain a respectful distance from the turtles to avoid disturbing them. Touching or harassing turtles is not only harmful but also illegal, and can incur hefty fines.
- Exercise the Golden Rule: Treat sea turtles the way you would want to be treated by strangers. Be calm and courteous around them as you might be when encountering a new person. If what you’re doing would freak out a person you don’t know, it definitely freaks out a sea turtle!
- Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect the marine environment by using reef-safe mineral sunscreen. Many traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs and marine life.
- Pick Up Trash: Sea turtles suffer greatly from human trash polluting the ocean and beaches. You can make a big difference by being sure to pick up all of your trash and any other stray items you encounter while adventuring.
Conclusion
Maui’s diverse beaches offer incredible opportunities to see sea turtles in their natural habitat. From the calm waters of Maluaka Beach to the vibrant reefs of Honolua Bay, each location provides a unique and memorable experience. By respecting these majestic creatures and their environment, visitors can enjoy unforgettable encounters while helping to preserve Maui’s marine ecosystem for future generations. Whether you’re a snorkeler or a beachcomber, these top spots around Maui are sure to provide an exceptional adventure filled with the wonder of sea turtles.
