Is it safe to swim with turtles in Maui?
Is it safe to swim with turtles in Maui? Sea turtles are gentle in nature, but they also have the ability to bite with their sharp beaks they use for eating algae off the reef, sea urchins, fish, squid and jellyfish! The safest way to snorkel with sea turtles in Maui is to swim slowly and calmly in the water. Keep your distance and observe the turtle.
Can you see turtles in Maui without snorkeling?
Please help protect these beautiful animals. Stay back 10 feet or more when watching sea turtles in the ocean or on land. Yes, on land — Maui's green turtles can often be sighted basking on quiet beaches, usually in the evenings and mornings. Get Maui snorkeling and diving tips.
What time of day do sea turtles come to shore?
Most nesting sea turtle species come ashore at night, alone, and often during high tide. Some species, such as the Kemp's ridley, nest during the day and generally emerge from the ocean by the hundreds to lay their nests in a mass nesting event called an arribada or arrival.
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.
What are the rules for turtles in Hawaii?
Safety Rules and Regulations For Sea Turtles This applies whether the encounter takes place on land or in the water. Make sure to stay at least 10 feet away, and don't feed them, attempt to ride them, or harass them in any way. The most important thing to remember is that you can look, but you can't touch.
Is it safe to swim with turtles in Hawaii?
When you see a sea turtle, keep a respectful distance. The State of Hawaii's DLNR recommends a 6- to 10-foot buffer, but we recommend a larger buffer to help protect the turtles. Never touch or chase sea turtles, as it is extremely disrespectful and irresponsible.
How much is it if you touch a turtle in Hawaii?
Stay back 10 feet or 3 meters from Sea turtles. Sea turtles are protected and it is illegal to interfere with them or touch them! It can be a $10,500 fine per person. Then I talk about sea turtle & marine life biology, ecology, behavior,sightings, and natural history until they decide to leave.
What island in Hawaii has the most 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.