Oahu, the third-largest island in Hawaii, is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. For myself, one of the best things about visiting Oahu is immersing myself in the natural beauty of the island. There is so much more to see in Oahu outside of the hustle and bustle of Honolulu and Waikiki.
Where To See Turtles In Oahu.
One of the most magnificent creatures you can encounter in Oahu’s waters is the sea turtle. These gentle giants, also known as Honu in Hawaiian, are a must-see for anyone visiting the island.
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Expert Tip: Be sure and have a Snow Puffy during your visit to Oahu.
Oahu is home to five of the seven species of sea turtles in the world. These species include the green turtle (which is the most popular and the species I refer to in this article), hawksbill turtle, and the rarely seen leatherback turtle, loggerhead turtle, and olive ridley turtle. Sea turtles can be found all around Oahu, but some locations are better than others to witness them up close. The best time to see sea turtles in Oahu is during the summer months from May to September.
Hawaiian green sea turtles, are one of the most beloved creatures in Hawaii. Watching them gracefully glide through the water is a once-in-a-lifetime experience many travelers dream of. Oahu, Hawaii’s third-largest island, offers several opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
About Honu (Green Sea Turtles)
Honu is a species of sea turtle that is native to Hawaii. They can grow up to 4 feet and can weigh up to 500 pounds. They are named for their greenish-colored fat, which is caused by the algae they eat. These turtles are known for their friendly personalities and are often seen swimming in groups. Honu have been a part of Hawaiian culture for centuries and are considered being a symbol of good luck and longevity. For this reason, they are sacred to the people and they must be treated with respect.
Why Are They Endangered?
Honu have been listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act since 1978. They face several threats, including habitat destruction, entanglement in fishing gear, hunting, and pollution. In Hawaii, it is illegal to touch, feed, or harass sea turtles. Violators can face hefty fines.
If you see the turtles in trouble, here’s a guide that explains what you need to do.
Where To See Turtles In Oahu
1. Laniakea Beach
Laniakea Beach, also known as Turtle Beach (not to be confused with Turtle Bay), is on the North Shore of Oahu. This beach is known for its high turtle sighting rate, making it one of the best places to see sea turtles in Oahu. The beach is easily accessible, and there are volunteers on-site to provide information about the turtles and their habitat.
Fun Fact: The ancient Hawaiian name for Turtle Beach is Kukae’ohiki which means “excrement of the ghost crabs”. No wonder people use the modern name!
2. Waikiki Beach
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Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Oahu, and it’s also a great place to see sea turtles. The turtles can be seen swimming close to shore or resting on the sand. However, because of the high volume of tourists, it’s essential to give the turtles space and not touch or disturb them.
3. Yokohama Bay
Yokohama Bay (Keawa’ula Beach) is on the west coast of Oahu and is known for its secluded and uncrowded beach. This beach is a great place to see sea turtles, and it’s also an excellent spot for snorkeling. The turtles can be seen swimming near the coral reefs.
4. Makaha Beach
Makaha Beach is another great place to see sea turtles in Oahu. This beach is on the west coast, or Wai’anae Coast of Oahu and is known for its beautiful sunsets and clear waters. The turtles can be seen swimming near the shore.
5. Turtle Bay and Turtle Bay Resort
Turtle Bay is a resort on the North Shore of Oahu and is named after the turtles that can be seen swimming in the bay. The resort offers various activities to see the turtles, including snorkeling and kayaking. They also offer a turtle education program that teaches visitors about the turtles and their habitat. Past the resort is Turtle Bay which is also a glorious spot for watching the sunset and enjoying the stunning views of the ocean.
6. Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay is a nature preserve on the southeast coast of Oahu. This bay is known for its beautiful coral reefs and diverse marine life, including sea turtles. Visitors can go snorkeling to see the turtles up close,
7. Ka’ena Point
Ka’ena Point is a nature reserve on the northwest coast of Oahu. This reserve is home to various marine life, including sea turtles. The fenced off area of this preserve is a nesting ground to the albatross. This is also a magnificent spot to see another endangered species, the Monk Seal. To reach the point, you will need to hike for a few miles, but the stunning scenery and the chance to see sea turtles in their natural habitat are well worth it.
8. Electric Beach
Electric Beach is on the west coast of Oahu and is known for scuba diving and snorkeling. The turtles can be spotted sunning on the tiny stretch of sand here.
9. Shark’s Cove
Shark’s Cove is on the North Shore of Oahu and is one of the best spots for snorkeling and diving during May through September. The cove is named after its unique shape, that resembles a shark’s mouth. Visitors can see a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, swimming in the cove’s crystal-clear waters.
10. Ko Olina Lagoons
The Ko Olina Lagoons are on the west coast of Oahu and are known for their calm waters and beautiful scenery. Arrive early, because these man-made lagoons are popular spots for swimming and snorkeling. Lagoon #4 has the most parking spots. The lagoons are a great place to see sea turtles swimming near the shore. Visitors can also enjoy various water activities, such as paddle boarding and kayaking, to witness the turtles up close.
11. Waimanalo Beach
Waimanalo Beach is on the east coast of Oahu and is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The beach is a great place to see sea turtles, and visitors can often spot them swimming close to the shore.
12. Kahana Bay Beach Park
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Kahana Bay Beach Park is on the windward side of Oahu and is a secluded beach known for its calm waters and breathtaking scenery. The beach is a great place to see sea turtles swimming near the shore. There’s plenty of wooded area to enjoy a picnic.
13. Kualoa Regional Park
Kualoa Regional Park is on the east coast of Oahu and has scenic views of the ocean and the majestic Koʻolau Mountains and Mokoli’i Island (Chinaman’s Hat). The park is also a great place to see sea turtles swimming in the clear waters. Visitors can enjoy various water activities, such as snorkeling and kayaking, to witness the turtles up close.
Expert Tip: Visit nearby Kualoa Ranch for a day of adventure.
14. Ala Moana Beach Park
Ala Moana Beach Park is near Waikiki and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The beach park is a great place to see sea turtles swimming close to the shore. Visitors can also enjoy various water activities, such as stand-up paddle boarding, to witness the turtles up close. It’s the popular alternative to Waikiki Beach, so if you’re looking for a quiet spot to see turtles, this is not it.
15. Lanikai Beach
Lanikai Beach is on the east coast of Oahu and is known for its stunning clear turquoise waters and soft, powdery sand. The beach is a great place to see sea turtles swimming close to the shore. Visitors can also enjoy various water activities, such as kayaking and snorkeling, to witness the turtles up close. Parking can be tricky here since it’s a residential neighborhood and only street parking. The best thing to do is to park at nearby Kailua Beach Park and walk over.
Oahu is a paradise for sea turtle enthusiasts, with various locations where visitors can see the majestic Honu up close. It’s important to be respectful of the turtles’ space and not touch or harass them. By following these guidelines, visitors can have a memorable experience witnessing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
FAQs
- Is it legal to touch sea turtles in Oahu?
No, it is illegal to touch or harass sea turtles in Oahu. Visitors must maintain a safe distance and not disturb the turtles.
- What is the best time to see sea turtles in Oahu?
The best time to see sea turtles in Oahu is during the summer months from May to September.
- Do all beaches in Oahu have sea turtles?
While sea turtles can be found all around Oahu, some locations are better than others to see them up close. The beaches listed in this article are known for their high turtle sighting rates.
- When is the best time of the day to see the turtles?
The best time to see the turtles is when the sun is at its highest from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.
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