Where to see honu, the 10-foot rule, and water quality at Hawaii’s best turtle beaches
Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) are protected under the Endangered Species Act. You must maintain at least 10 feet (3 meters) from any turtle in the water or on land. Do not touch, chase, feed, or block their path. Violations carry fines up to $100,000. If a turtle swims toward you — stay still and enjoy the moment.
The Hawaiian green sea turtle — called honu in Hawaiian — is one of the most beloved marine animals in the islands. Once hunted nearly to extinction, the green sea turtle has recovered significantly since federal protection began in 1978. Today, seeing a honu glide past you in the water or haul out on a beach to rest is one of the genuinely magical experiences Hawaiʻi offers.
Green sea turtles can grow to 300–400 pounds and live 80+ years. They feed primarily on marine algae and sea grasses. Adults travel thousands of miles to nest at French Frigate Shoals in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, often returning to the same beach where they were born. Juveniles and adults can be seen year-round at feeding reefs throughout the main Hawaiian islands.
Hawaiʻi also has hawksbill sea turtles (honuʻea), which are critically endangered and rarer. They prefer deeper reef habitat and are much less commonly encountered by swimmers.
The most reliably turtle-frequented beach in Hawaiʻi. Green sea turtles haul out here almost daily, often in the afternoon. Volunteers from NOAA’s Honu program are usually present to ensure visitors maintain proper distance. Water quality here tends to be good — it’s a rural North Shore beach well away from urban runoff.
This marine preserve is one of the best in-water turtle snorkeling spots in the state. Water quality at Hanauma Bay is among Oʻahu’s best — no vehicles near the shoreline, no urban runoff, and active reef management. Reservations required; book well in advance.
Warm water discharge from the nearby power plant attracts turtles and spinner dolphins year-round. Popular with local divers and snorkelers. Entry can be rocky. Water quality is generally good on this leeward, dry stretch of coast.
The rocky headland at the north end of Kaʻanapali Beach is home to a resident turtle population. Easy entry, calm water in typical conditions, and the turtles are often close to shore. One of the most accessible turtle snorkeling spots in Maui.
The reef south of Wailea near Makena is known as “Turtle Town” — a feeding ground for green sea turtles. Most boat snorkel tours from Māʻalaea stop here. The site requires a boat or kayak for best access; water quality on Maui’s south shore is typically excellent.
Green sea turtles regularly haul out on this famous black sand beach near South Point. Multiple turtles can often be seen resting simultaneously. Swimming here is rough due to wave action — come for the turtles on land, not in the water.
A less-visited beach north of Kailua-Kona with consistent turtle sightings. Near Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. The surrounding lava field means minimal runoff and typically clean water.
The protected reef at Poʻipu is a feeding area for green sea turtles. They’re commonly seen in the water around the rocky sections flanking the main beach. Excellent year-round access with typically good water quality.
Free alerts when advisories are posted at Hawaii’s best turtle snorkeling beaches. Plan your ocean day with confidence.
No spam. Just safety alerts for your trip.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — not affiliated with DOH, NOAA, or any government agency. Wildlife regulations described here are accurate to the best of our knowledge but may change. Always verify current rules with NOAA’s Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center.
Always verify beach conditions with the Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch before entering the water.
When in doubt, don't go out. 🤙