Honu Hotspots: Where to Find Sea Turtles in Oahu, Hawaii

By Samantha Panzera | July 24, 2024 |

Discover the best beaches to spot Hawaiian green sea turtles on Oahu! From Laniakea Beach to Kailua Beach, these honu hotspots offer incredible opportunities to see these majestic creatures up close. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and beach lovers alike, don't miss out on these must-visit locations. Grab your reef-safe sunscreen and snorkeling gear, and dive into the adventure! #Oahu #SeaTurtles #Honu #Hawaii #TravelTips #Wildlife

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Oahu, Hawaii, is a paradise not just for sun-seekers and surfers but also for wildlife enthusiasts. One of the island's most cherished residents is the Hawaiian green sea turtle, locally known as "honu." These majestic creatures can be spotted gliding gracefully through the turquoise waters or basking on sandy shores. If you're eager to encounter these incredible animals on your next Hawaiian vacation to Oahu, we've compiled a list of the best beaches where you have a good chance of seeing sea turtles up close. Grab your reef-safe sunscreen, camera, and snorkeling gear, and let's dive into the best Honu hotspots on the island!

When encountering sea turtles in Oahu, it’s crucial to remember that these gentle creatures are protected under both state and federal laws. Touching or disturbing sea turtles can cause them significant stress and potentially harm their health. Always maintain a respectful distance, allowing the turtles to go about their natural behaviors undisturbed. Do Not Touch! and Give Them Space! Harassing sea turtles in any way is illegal in the state of Hawaii and is classified as a Class C Felony, with fines up to $100,000 per violation and the possibility of jail time. This not only ensures their safety but also preserves the natural beauty and balance of their habitat. By respecting the wildlife, we contribute to the conservation efforts that help keep these magnificent creatures thriving in their natural environment.

Laniakea Beach

Often referred to as "Turtle Beach," Laniakea Beach on Oahu’s North Shore is one of the most popular and accessible spots for seeing sea turtles. This beach is my number one recommendation for turtle watching in Oahu, thanks to its consistent turtle activity and beautiful setting. The gentle waves and warm sands make it a perfect place for honu to come ashore and rest, especially during the summer months when they frequently bask on the beach.

Visitors are likely to see several turtles lounging on the beach, often with their flippers tucked under them as they soak up the sun. To ensure the safety and well-being of these amazing creatures, it’s important to respect their space and observe from a distance. Fortunately, the honu have guardians—volunteers and local conservationists—who often take shifts staying on this beach to help protect the turtles and educate visitors. These honu guardians provide valuable information about the turtles' behaviors, biology, and the importance of conservation efforts. Their presence not only enhances the experience for beachgoers but also ensures that the turtles are safeguarded from potential disturbances. The last time I was there, one of the honu guardians had his dog with a honu gardian shirt on him which was super cute. They often put a red rope around sleeping sea turtles for tourists to stay back from for taking pictures but it is even more advisable to stay back even further to not disturb these beautiful creatures' rest.

Laniakea Beach holds a special place in my heart as it was where I first saw a sea turtle basking in the sun on the shore. During my initial trips to Hawaii, I hadn't encountered any turtles until I visited this remarkable beach. Since that first visit, I have been fortunate to see turtles every time I return. I've watched them gracefully swimming in the surf, foraging for food, and lying peacefully on the sand. Laniakea Beach is truly a magical spot, offering a unique and unforgettable experience with these magnificent creatures.

Laniakea Beach offers a unique opportunity to witness these majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat while contributing to their preservation. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a serene day at the beach, Laniakea is a must-visit destination on Oahu.

Side Note: Parking at this location is very limited so I recommend: Getting here early or visiting late afternoon during the busiest travel months of June-August.

Turtle Bay Resort

Nestled on the northern tip of Oahu, Turtle Bay Resort offers a unique opportunity to spot sea turtles in a serene and luxurious setting. The resort's protected coves and reefs provide a safe haven for honu, making it common to see them swimming nearby. Guests can enjoy guided snorkeling tours to learn more about the turtles and their natural habitat. I have often seen sea turtles swimming in the water here when standing on shore looking down.

Kailua Beach

Kailua Beach, with its stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters, is a favorite not just for beachgoers but also for sea turtles. This beach is by far my favorite on Oahu. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for spotting honu as they swim close to shore. While Kailua is widely known for its windsurfing and kayaking, turtle sightings here are frequent and add an extra layer of excitement to any visit.

I've often seen turtles swimming close to shore while walking along the beach and had a memorable experience when I saw a massive dark shadow approaching me while swimming. Initially, I was terrified, thinking it was a shark, but my fear turned to relief and amazement when I realized it was just a curious turtle swimming up to me. Snorkeling at Kailua Beach has also given me the pleasure of watching sea turtles graze on algae and seagrasses. The beach's relatively uncrowded environment makes these encounters even more special, offering a unique opportunity to observe turtles in their natural habitat.

Lanikai Beach

Just a short distance from Kailua Beach, Lanikai Beach is another one of my favorite spots and a fantastic place for seeing sea turtles. Known for its picturesque scenery and vibrant coral reefs, Lanikai offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and turtle-watching. The reefs are teeming with marine life, and it's common to see honu swimming gracefully among the corals, foraging for algae. The crystal-clear waters provide great visibility, making it easy to spot these majestic creatures as they navigate their underwater habitat. With its serene atmosphere and abundant marine life, Lanikai Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Oahu's sea turtles up close. I often visit Kailua Beach and Lanikai Beach on the same day, starting at Kailua and then taking a 10 to 15-minute walk to Lanikai. Along the way, I often spot sea turtles swimming from the top of the hill.

Haleiwa Beach

Haleiwa Beach, located in the charming town of Haleiwa, offers a good chance of seeing sea turtles. The waters here are typically calm, making it easier to spot honu as they navigate the shallow areas. I love standing on shore at this beach watching the turtles swim. After your turtle-watching adventure, you can explore the quaint shops and restaurants in Haleiwa.

Electric Beach

Known for its excellent snorkeling conditions, Electric Beach (officially Kahe Point Beach Park) is another great spot to see sea turtles. The warm waters discharged from a nearby power plant attract a variety of marine life, including honu. Snorkelers often find themselves swimming alongside these gentle giants, enjoying the vibrant underwater scenery.

Makua Beach

Makua Beach, located on Oahu’s west side, is a more secluded and less touristy spot to see sea turtles. The peaceful and uncrowded beach provides an ideal environment for honu to come ashore and relax. The clear waters also make for great snorkeling opportunities, where you can observe turtles in a tranquil setting.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Hanauma Bay is a renowned snorkeling destination and a prime spot for sea turtle sightings. This protected marine life conservation area is home to an abundance of honu, thanks to its rich coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystem. Early mornings are the best time to visit, as the bay can get quite crowded later in the day. Turtles often hangout in the deeper sections and may go farther out with more people.

Kaimana Beach

Situated near the Waikiki area, Kaimana Beach is a lesser-known spot for seeing sea turtles. The beach's gentle waves and clear waters provide a perfect habitat for honu. After enjoying a day of turtle watching, you can easily stroll to nearby attractions and restaurants, making it a convenient yet rewarding destination.

Kuilima Cove Snorkeling

Kuilima Cove, located near Turtle Bay Resort, offers a tranquil snorkeling experience with a good chance of encountering sea turtles. The cove's protected waters are ideal for snorkeling, and the vibrant marine life, including honu, makes it a memorable spot. Guided tours are available for those who want a more informative experience.

Kaena Point

Kaena Point, at the westernmost tip of Oahu, is a remote and rugged area that provides a natural habitat for sea turtles. The hike to Kaena Point is an adventure in itself, offering stunning coastal views and the possibility of seeing honu both in the water and on the beach. The area is also a bird sanctuary, adding to its natural appeal.

Waikiki Beach

Believe it or not, you can even see turtles at Waikiki Beach. While Waikiki is famous for its bustling atmosphere and surf culture, it's also a spot where you might spot sea turtles. The breakwater and reef areas around Waikiki provide a habitat for honu, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Combining turtle watching with the vibrant energy of Waikiki offers a truly unique experience. I often see sea turtles when walking out on the pier, and I've had them swim right up next to me, sticking their heads out of the water in the turquoise waves. During Aloha Boat Tours on a catamaran, I've spotted turtles gliding through the water, and even while strolling along the beach, I've seen several turtles poking their heads out of the ocean. So, even in the most touristy area of the island, there's always a chance of encountering turtles in Waikiki.

Encountering sea turtles in their natural habitat is a magical experience and one of the highlights of visiting Oahu. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or simply enjoying a day at the beach, these honu hotspots offer incredible opportunities to see these majestic creatures up close. Remember to always respect the turtles and their environment, ensuring these beautiful animals can be enjoyed for generations to come. Happy turtle spotting!

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