Can you swim with sea turtles in Hawaii?

Can you swim with sea turtles in Hawaii? You may see a turtle (honu) or two while snorkeling but swimming with the turtles is frowned upon. They are a protected species and by law, you need to give them distance. The best place for a beginner snorkeler on Oahu is Hanauma Bay. There are lifeguards there if you should get into trouble.

How rare is it to see a sea turtle in Hawaii?

But it's common for snorkelers and divers on all the islands to see the honu (green sea turtle) in near shore waters. 96% of Hawai?i's green sea turtles nest in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, the largest fully protected conservation area under the U.S. flag.

Which Hawaiian island has the most sea turtles?

Hawaii (Big) Island – The Kohala Coast might be one of the most abundant areas for Hawaiian green sea turtles. We've seen many both above and below the water. We have seen them from many snorkeling tours as well as from the beaches and ocean around the Fairmont Orchid, Hilton Waikoloa and the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel.

What is the best time of year to see sea turtles in Hawaii?

One of the best times of the year to see Hawaiian green turtles in the wild is in the summer – they love the calmer waters and soaking up the sun, just like most vacationers do. Here, discover the best places to see turtles in Oahu, and how to stay safe and considerate while you're turtle sightseeing.

What to do if a sea turtle approaches you?

When you see a turtle coming up the beach, keep your distance, turn off any lights you are using and crouch down low. Do NOT walk closer! Always approach turtles from the side. This gives them a clear view of you and a clear path ahead of them if they want to swim away.

Where is the best place to swim with sea turtles?

What beach has the most sea turtles?

The largest green turtle nesting population is found at Tortuguero, on the coast of Costa Rica where about 22,500 green turtle females nest annually. Raine Island, on Australia's Great Barrier Reef, has the second largest nesting population of about 18,000 females per season.

Is it safe to Swim with sea turtles?

Do not enter the water too close to a sea turtle. Maintain a distance of at least 10 metres. Approach slowly and keep your distance. Back off if they start to show signs of distress like swimming away quickly, and do not chase them.

What not to touch while snorkeling?