sea turtle tour hawaii

Honolulu Turtle Tours

Welcome to Honolulu Turtle Tours

Seas the day with us

Our Oahu, Waikiki excursion

Waikiki Turtle snorkeling

Explore the Wonders of Turtle Canyon 

Explore the enchanting underwater realm of Turtle Canyon on our Turtle Snorkeling Tour. Nestled along the picturesque coast of Honolulu, Hawaii, Turtle Canyon is a sanctuary for majestic green sea turtles. Our expert guides will lead you to prime viewing spots, providing insights into local marine life and emphasizing the importance of conservation. This educational adventure is suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers, offering an unforgettable experience, filled with awe and the opportunity to create lasting memories. Immerse yourself in the magic of Turtle Canyon with us today!

Waikiki Sunset party cruise

Epic Sunset and Party Cruise

Embark on a delightful journey with our Sunset and Party Cruise! As the sun sets, join us for a unique evening featuring a DJ, dancing under the open sky, and the option to bring your own drinks (BYOB). We'll also provide complimentary alcoholic beverages, enhancing the onboard experience. Enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation, fun, and indulgence with stunning sunset views and delectable snacks. Whether for special occasions, quality time with friends, or embracing the magic of twilight at sea, our cruise promises an unforgettable evening. Book your spot today for a memorable sunset sail!

Waikiki Friday night fireworks

Elevate Your Evening with Our Firework Cruise

Get ready for an unforgettable night on our Firework Cruise, where you'll sail under a dazzling sky ablaze with fireworks. This BYOB event allows you to bring your favorite beverages, complemented by complimentary alcoholic drinks and delightful snacks. Perfect for special occasions, unique date nights, or an enchanting evening on the water, our Firework Cruise guarantees a memorable adventure. Join us for the best seat in town to witness the magic of fireworks. Reserve your spot today and light up the night!

Whale watching

Experience the magic of Humpback whale watching in Hawaii with our affordable and expertly operated Waikiki Whale Watch tours. From December to April, join us on our double-deck catamaran off the coast of Oahu, where these playful creatures, symbolizing Kanaloa, the god of ocean life, can be spotted.

Our crew is committed to ensuring you witness Hawaii's beautiful marine life. We guarantee whale sightings, and if not, you can rebook at no charge for the rest of the season* (excluding a $7 per person fuel surcharge and handling fee). Book your unforgettable Waikiki Whale Watch online today!

"Unveil the Underwater: Our Snorkeling Spotlight."

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Why Book with Us?

• Eco-certified Turtle Snorkeling on Oahu and enjoy a 35% Discount .
• Enjoy inclusive lunch, snorkeling gear, and hotel transportation.
• 100% Refund Policy: Full Refund if you cancel 24 hours before tour.

3 Hawaii Turtle Tours on Oahu

Sea turtle snorkle.

Turtles and You

Turtles + oahu circle, island and you, dolphins + turtle swim, dolphins and you, sea turtle snorkeling.

Experience the delight of peaceful sea turtles cruising in their natural environment, the beauty of the clear blue Hawaiian sea.

Land Turtle Tour!

Explore the beauty of Oahu’s landscapes, history, and cuisine, and encounter beached sea turtles on the ultimate Oahu-circle-island tour!

Dolphins + Turtles!

Experience genuine Hawaiian hospitality and entertainment as you embark on an exciting expedition to observe wild dolphins and snorkel with Honu turtles.

Waikki Whale Watching!

Whales and You

Observe Humpback whales and diverse marine life in their natural habitat along Oahu’s breathtaking Gold Coast.

Waimea Waterfall Swim!

Nature and You

Waimea Waterfall Swim with Breakfast, Lunch & Dole Plantation!

Waikiki Sunset Cruise!

Ocean and You

Waikiki Sunset Cocktail cruise and end with a Premiere dance party.

Turtles & You Video!

Other ‘And You’ Adventures

Waimea waterfall swim, manoa waterfall hike, waikiki friday fireworks cruise, waikiki turtle trolley rides included.

Hear it from our Guests!

Click them to see the ‘Real Turtle Snorkeling Oahu Reviews’ .

Turtle Tales: A Sea of Cuteness!

All the known species at Turtle Canyon

What is the chant in Hawaiian culture called, “E’ho mai?

Can you swim to Turtle Canyon from Oahu?

How do I Snorkel in the Ocean for Beginners (Snorkel Gear Provided)

Shell-abrate Responsibly: Oahu Sea Turtle Playdate Tours Etiquette!

Do Sea Turtles live to be 150 years old?

What sunscreen or sunblock is safe for Sea Turtles?

Is it illegal to feed Sea Turtles in Oahu?

Oahu's Top 5 places for Turtle Snorkeling

Turtle snorkeling oahu.

• Snorkel w/ Sea Turtles
• Complimentary Musubi
• Chant & Hula Dance
• Bar Service Onboard

• 日本語 Japanese

OCEAN TOURS

• Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Dolphins, Turtle Snorkel & Lunch!
• Snorkel Turtle Canyon Diamond Head view with Lunch!
• Sunset Waikiki Booze Cruise Full bar and dancing with Live DJ
• Whale Watching *Season starts December

• Waimea Waterfall Swim Breakfast & Lunch Included!
• 5-Stars Oahu Circle Island Sights & Local Flavors
• Manoa Falls Waterfall Hike Healthy Lunch Included

PRIVATE TOURS

• Private Boat Charter
• Custom Tours
• OAHU ISLAND ADVENTURES
• BIG ISLAND ADVENTURES
• Private Charters
• Mālama ka’āina
• MEDIA & PHOTOS
• HAWAII INFLUENCER

Turtles and You

Turtle canyon oahu turtle snorkeling tours.

Turtle Swim with MUSUBI Included!

On this adventure, aboard our state-of-the-art tour boat, you will experience the beauty of Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles as they glide through the pristine blue waters off the coast of Waikiki at the famed ‘Turtle Cannon’ along with various other tropical marine life. You will be able to enjoy a gourmet musubi while the crew performs a traditional Hula.This is an experience that you will remember forever!

Enjoy complimentary rides in the NEW Waikiki Turtle Trolley!

Featuring a snorkeling session with hawaiian reef fish and turtles, "this boat is lit" "best booze cruise in hawaii" "epic experience" "best night of my life".

Read More Reviews

Experience the delight of peaceful sea turtles cruising in their natural environment, the beauty of the clear blue Hawaiian sea.

Board the double-decker boat and explore its wraparound seating and Titanic-style front railing. Keep your eyes on the horizon for sightings of Hawaiian spinner dolphins, or humpback whales in winter.

Great for all levels of swimming experience, our tour is led by a knowledgeable, water safety-certified crew.

• Explore beautiful reefs teeming with fish and "honu" sea turtles
• Enjoy authentic Hawaiian cultural performances like a hula dance and E Ho Mai chant
• Enjoy a complimentary MUSUBI as you relax on the deck of the boat
• Bar Service Onboard. Adult beverages are available to purchase at $6 & $12
• Take in the beauty of Diamond Head and the Waikiki coastline
• Keep your eyes out for wild spinner dolphins and whales in winter

Snorkel Turtle Canyon on Oahu

Turtle tour details.

Adults:$125 Kids(2-11):$99

for the safety of infants (0-1), they are Not Allowed

Days of operation & Times:

Morning Tour: 10am to 12pm (All year round) Everyday

Afternoon Tour: 1pm to 3pm (4/1 – 1/14) Everyday

Duration: 2 Hours

*Minimum of 10 bookings required for tour to take place

*Shoes not allowed on the boat in this tour.

3 Pick up locations in Waikiki

*Once you confirm the reservation, our reservation team will send you the confirmation email with pickup detail

More Info on Turtles & You!

Turtle Canyon Snorkeling with our New Free Trolley Service

Who’s ready for an unforgettable adventure exploring Turtle Canyon and a free trolley ride? Dive into the crystal-clear waters of one of Hawaii’s...

Exploring the Origin and Evolution of Hawaii Musubi

Exploring the Origin and Evolution of Hawaii Musubi Hawaii is renowned for its vibrant culture and diverse cuisine, with one beloved dish standing...

How do Oahu Turtle Eyes Adapt to Different Environments?

Turtles, with their ancient lineage and remarkable adaptations, captivate the imagination of nature enthusiasts worldwide. Among their many intriguing features, their eyes stand...

What are the best spots on Oahu to snorkel with turtles?

Welcome to the tropical paradise of Oahu, where crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life await eager snorkelers. One of the most enchanting experiences...

What's Included in The Turtle Tour

Things to bring, oahu turtle snorkel agenda, here is a complete rundown of what you can expect on your reef snorkel adventure..

*Tours may change/cancel due to unexpected weather or other circumstances.

8:40 AM / 11:35 AM

Bus pick-ups begin.

Our Turtle Trolley will transport you to Kewalo Basin Harbor. Enjoy warm Hawaiian breeze on the way to the harbor with our brand NEW Trolley!

9:30 AM / 12:30 PM

Arrival at kewalo basin harbor pier d, slip 111.

Please check in before boarding the boat.

Docked in the Kewalo Boat Harbor, our ship – Ariya II – has two decks, surround-sound, a Titanic-style bow and a bathroom onboard.

You will be asked to remove your shoes before boarding the boat. This is for your safety. We will have storage for you to place them in during your time onboard.

9:45 AM / 12:45 PM

Crew introductions and safety briefing.

Filled with the Aloha Spirit, our dynamic crew members are all masters of the sea! Our crew is CPR-certified and trained in water safety. They will inform you how to stay safe on the boat.

Adult beverages are available onboard. Please have your ID ready if you would like to purchase.

10:00 AM / 1:00 PM

Depart from the harbor.

Following departure, we will begin our boat ride by reciting a Hawaiian chant called, “ E’ho mai “.  It is a prayer to the gods of the sea for a safe trip with plentiful marine life.

10:30 AM / 1:30 PM

Snorkeling session with hawaiian reef fish and turtles.

Once we arrive to our destination, our crew will begin with a snorkel briefing on how to properly use the snorkel mask, fins and life-vests.

Then it’s time to jump in the water and explore! Hawaii’s clear waters and a sunny day will produce beautiful colors, bringing the reef to life. You’ll see Hawaiian reef fish and turtles!

11:15 AM / 2:15 PM

Soak in the scenery.

After snorkeling, guests will have an opportunity to explore different parts of the boat–from the wraparound bow to the 2nd-floor deck for optimal scenic viewing. Our crew will share information on Hawaiian marine life, such as turtles, dolphins and whales. We may even see some dolphins and whales during our journey!

Waikiki Fireworks

(friday tours only).

Each Friday evening the Hilton Hawaiian Village puts on a free fireworks show on Waikiki Beach. Get the best view on the island, watching from the ocean!

*Fireworks currently closed indefinitely due to COVID-19

11:30 AM / 2:30 PM

Complimentary musubi.

After a fun-filled day in the ocean, enjoy a complimentary musubi.  Take in a live hula performance as you enjoy your snack.

※Our meals do not accommodate allergies. For your safety, please bring your own

Turtle Tattoo

As a new member of our Turtles and You ohana (family), we celebrate your Oahu turtle snorkel with a special gift! 

Our original polynesian-style temporary turtle tattoo!  This isn’t available anywhere else but with Turtles and You.  Just our way to say “thanks” and “mahalo”!

11:45 AM / 2:45 PM

Head back to the harbor.

After a fun-filled adventure, we head back to the harbor. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the crew’s Hula Show. At the end, please join us as we dance together to spread Aloha and give thanks.

12:00 PM / 3:00 PM

"a hui ho" until we meet again.

Thank you for joining us on a fun-filled adventure on the ocean! Please don’t forget about all the sea creatures you’ve met on this adventure!

Our Commitment to the Environment

And You Creations is committed to minimizing impact on wildlife and fragile Hawaii ecosystems, along with actively promoting environmental awareness, so that snorkel tours will be around for generations to come.

SEA TURTLE SNORKEL ADVENTURE

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours
• User Ages: All ages
• Clock Times: 8:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m.
• Info Info: Check-in 30 minutes prior to departure

Sea Turtle Snorkel Adventure

Join us on a sea turtle snorkel adventure at Turtle Canyon, a set of coral reefs just off the coast of Waikiki that act as a cleaning station for the Hawaiian green sea turtles that migrate between the islands of Hawaii. Explore the reefs and all of the docile marine life that calls them home, where you will find yourself floating alongside turtles, and possibly spotting He’e (octopus), Ka Hoku Kai (starfish), and other marine life native to the Hawaiian islands. Our dedicated staff will guide you every step of the way, taking you to the best spots, offering to take photos, and most importantly, keeping you and your family safe and providing assistance in the water (if needed).

Sit and relax

Find yourself wanting a break while in the water? No problem! You can hop back on board the boat at any moment. Relax on our lounge nets, sip on your favorite cocktail from our premium on board bar, & enjoy beautiful Waikiki views from our 55′ luxury catamaran.

All gear (snorkels, masks, fins, and snorkel vests) is provided by us, for you to enjoy the abundant marine life that visit the reefs every single day.

Are you ready? Book the #1 snorkel boat tour in Waikiki, the turtles (and memories) await!

**Must exhibit basic swimming skills to participate in water activities.**

• Chevron down CANCELLATION POLICY

Full refund available with at least 48 hours’ notice of sail departure. Customers will also receive a full refund for any cancellation made by the company due to weather, maintenance, or other unforeseen circumstances. Rescheduling available at no charge up until 24 hours prior to departure.

RELATED ACTIVITIES

• Most popular!
• User All ages
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Sail

There is no better place to be during Oahu’s magnificent golden sunsets than on our signature Sunset Cruise, an unmatched experience complete with premium drinks from our on board bar, indescribable views,

• Hour Glass 1 hour

Friday Night Fireworks Cruise

After the sun goes down, the fun goes up! On Friday nights, you’ll be front and center as the fireworks explode over the city’s skyline, truly making this the ultimate party experience. Enjoy the premium drinks of your choice from our on board bar!

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OAHU TURTLE SNORKEL TOUR

Have Incredible Encounters With The Wildlife On The North Shore

SHARE THE WATER WITH GREEN SEA TURTLES Copy Link Email Facebook

• Waikiki, Oahu, Hawaii

T his is an action-packed circle island tour with an emphasis on the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle. Throughout the day you will be taken to multiple stops including Turtle Beach and Chinaman’s Hat where you will be able to see turtles lounging on the beach or swimming in the ocean. On this tour you will also get to experience Oahu’s more rural side where you can learn about the unique culture of the people as well as the region's rich history.

From: $ 139 .00

BOOK YOUR TOUR

Choose Your Tour

9-Hour Circle Island Turtle Snorkel Tours From Waikiki Hotels

$ 139 .00

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Where are you staying?

Having your accommodation information helps us provide directions, travel tips and can more easily contact you if there is a change in plans last minute.

• Select Your Hotel Other Aloha Towers Condominium 'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach Ambassador Hotel Waikiki Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki Aqua Oasis Aqua Ohia Waikiki Studio Suites Aqua Pacific Monarch Aqua Palms Waikiki Aqua Skyline at Island Colony Aston at the Executive Centre Hotel Aston at the Waikiki Banyan Aston Waikiki Beach Tower Aston Waikiki Circle Hotel Aston Waikiki Sunset Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa Bamboo Waikiki Hotel Beach Villas at Ko Olina Coconut Waikiki Hotel, a Joie de Vivre Hotel Courtyard by Marriott Waikiki Beach Diamond Head Beach Hotel Discovery Bay Condominiums Doubletree by Hilton - Alana Waikiki Hotel Embassy Suites - Waikiki Beach Walk Espacio The Jewel Waikiki Ewa Hotel Waikiki Fairway Villa by Diamond Resorts International Four Paddle Condominiums Grand Waikikian by Hilton Grand Vacations Hale Koa Hotel Halekulani Hotel Halepuna Waikiki Hotel Hawaiian King Condo-Hotel Hawaiki Tower Hilton Garden Inn Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort Hilton Waikiki Beach Hokulani Waikiki by Hilton Grand Vacations Holiday Inn Express Holiday Surf Hotel Hotel Renew by Aston Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa Ilikai Marina Condos Ilima Hotel Imperial Hawaii Resort of Waikiki Inn on the Park Condominiums Kuhio Banyan Club Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head Luana Waikiki Marina Hawaii Vacations Marine Surf Waikiki Marriott's Ko Olina Beach Club Ohana Waikiki East Ohana Waikiki Malia Outrigger Reef on the Beach Outrigger Regency on Beachwalk Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach Pacific Marina Inn by Castle Resorts Pagoda Hotel Park Shore Waikiki Hotel Pearl Hotel Waikiki Polynesian Hostel Prince Waikiki Private Residence Queen Kapiolani Hotel Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Waikiki Royal Aloha Vacation Club Royal Grove Hotel Royal Hawaiian Hotel Royal Kuhio Seaside Hawaiian Hostel Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Hotel Sheraton Waikiki Hotel Shoreline Hotel by Joie de Vivre Stay Hotel Waikiki Surfjack Hotel & Beach Club The Breakers at Waikiki The Equus Hotel The Kahala Hotel & Resort The Laylow, Autograph Collection The Modern Honolulu The Plumeria The Polynesian Residences, Waikiki Beach The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach Vive Hotel Waikiki Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa Waikiki Beachside Hostel Waikiki Central Hotel Waikiki Grand Hotel by Castle Resorts Waikiki Marina Resort at the Ilikai Waikiki Monarch Hotel Waikiki Park Heights Waikiki Resort Hotel Waikiki Shore by Castle Resorts White Sands Hotel Wyndham at Waikiki Beach Walk Wyndham Vacation Resorts Royal Garden at Waikiki Ala Moana Hotel The Twin Fin Waikiki (fka Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel) Wayfinder Waikiki $

We'll pick you up at 7:20am from Ala Moana Hotel.

Pick up at bus loading zone on Mahukona st. (Side street)

We'll pick you up at 7:23am from Hawaiian Monarch.

Valet parking area on Niu street.

We'll pick you up at 7:25am from Waikiki Prince Hotel.

Harbor side of the hotel on Holomoana street, at the valet parking area.

We'll pick you up at 7:27am from Hilton Hawaiian Village - Grand Islander tower (Bus Depot @ ground floor).

Pick up at the Hilton Hawaiian Village's newest tower, the Grand Islander Bus Depot.

We'll pick you up at 7:31am from Kala'i Waikiki Beach (FKA Trump Hotel).

Sidewalk of the hotel on Saratoga road.

We'll pick you up at 7:33am from The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach.

Valet parking area on Kalaimoku street.

We'll pick you up at 7:35am from Holiday Inn Express.

Pick up at the side street of the hotel on Namahana street.

We'll pick you up at 7:36am from Courtyard by Marriott.

Street side of the valet parking area on Royal Hawaiian ave.

We'll pick you up at 7:40am from Ross Dept Store on Seaside.

Main entrance of the ross department store, on Seaside Avenue.

We'll pick you up at 7:43am from Wayfinder / Aqua Surf Htls.

Tourguide will check both sides of the street on Kanekapolei Avenue.

We'll pick you up at 7:45am from Hyatt Regency Hotel.

Green awning area in the back of the hotel, on Koa Avenue.

We'll pick you up at 7:48am from Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach.

Valet parking area, outside of the lobby on liliuokalani ave.

We'll pick you up at 7:49am from The Twin Fin Hotel.

Street side of the valet parking area, on paoakalani ave.

We'll pick you up at 7:50am from Waikiki Beach Marriot Hotel.

Bus depot of the hotel, back corner, on Paoakalani Avenue.

We'll pick you up at 7:56am from Queen Kapiolani.

Sidewalk of the hotel, on Kapahulu Avenue.

We'll pick you up at 8am from New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel.

Street side on kalakaua Avenue.

Sales are final for tours starting within the next 72 hours. Please double-check your info before checking out.

Oahu Turtle Snorkel Tour Features

Swim with Hawaiian Turtles

Dive into the crystal-clear waters off the North Shore of Oahu and swim alongside majestic sea turtles. This tour offers you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the stunning beauty of the Hawaiian island of Oahu while enjoying an unforgettable snorkeling adventure. Immerse yourself in the vibrant coral reefs and amazing marine life, with a high likelihood of encountering wild Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu) in their natural habitat. Don't miss out on this awe-inspiring journey into the depths of Oahu's aquatic wonderland.

Get Into Nature on the Rural Side

Experience the stunning beauty of the rural side of the island - a true paradise with breathtaking views, lush foliage, and crystal clear waters. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history that surpasses any book or website. Make cherished memories with your family as you explore together. Kids will love this opportunity to discover the best of the island. Plus, this family-friendly tour caters to every member, with infants three and under riding for free. Don't let nature enthusiasts miss out on this incredible adventure.

The Most Fun Stops

Experience an unforgettable outdoor adventure on this tour, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Be amazed by breathtaking views, filled with warmth and Aloha. Discover charming local gift shops and encounter majestic Honu (Sea Turtles). 

Our itinerary includes exciting stops at Diamond Head Lookout, the awe-inspiring Halona Blowhole, tropical farms, Turtle Town, and the iconic Dole Plantation, where you can sample delicious pineapple treats. Indulge in Fumi's Kahuku Shrimp and enjoy plenty of time to explore the enchanting North Shore.

Oahu Turtle Snorkel Tour Details

Price & calendar.

Complimentary pickup from Waikiki

Full day adventure

Snorkel gear included

Visit famous snorkeling spots

Explore North Shore beaches

See the historic Dole Plantation

The tour officially begins with your guide arriving to pick you up at your hotel or designated pick up location in Waikiki. From there you and your fellow guests will be taken to the famous Diamond Head Lookout which is perched on the eastern side of the Diamond Head Volcano. This lookout offers the perfect vantage point to gaze at the incredible Oahu coastline. After leaving the lookout, you will head to the Halona Blowhole, which is an ancient lava tube that opens into the ocean. When the water conditions are right, the waves crash against the sea cliffs which creates an immense amount of pressure inside the lava tube and forces water to shoot 30’ into the air.

Following the coastline along the sea cliffs of Waimanalo towards the North Shore will take you right past the Makapuu Point Lookout from which you can see Manana Island off in the distance. A quick detour will bring you to a tropical farm that specializes in macadamia nuts, coffee and Hawaiian chocolate among other local treats. After a tasting at the farm, your guide will continue along the coastline into the Kualoa Valley Mountain Range and then to Chinaman’s Hat, a famous rock formation seen in several blockbuster Hollywood films.

Lunch will be served at another well known local farm located at the base of the Ko’olau Mountain Range. On the menu are mouthwatering delicacies including but not limited to garlic shrimp, coconut shrimp, and Kalua pork. After lunch, it is finally time to head to Turtle Beach and jump in the water with one of Hawaii’s most beloved sea creatures. As a final treat, your guide will take you to the historic Dole Pineapple Plantation to get a tour of the facilities, pick up souvenirs and of course, enjoy a cold and creamy pineapple Dole Whip! Depending on traffic, return time to Waikiki is expected to be between 4:00pm - 4:30pm.

In the event of cancellation or request change to your reservation, please note the following. Most Circle Island Tours originating from Oahu , there is no charge for date change or tour change based on tour availability. Any request for a refund prior to 72 hours is honored with a full cash refund. No refunds issued for any tours within the 72 hour period, prior to the start of your tour.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are we guaranteed to see turtles, is all snorkeling gear provided, how long is the tour, is the circle island tour mostly on a cruise or is it mostly on a bus, what type of clothing do you recommend for this tour.

Book Oahu Turtle Snorkel Tour

The Best Guides & Customer Service

We create opportunities for wonderful memories with your family and friends at a great value. Each day is an important time investment. You won’t waste your time or money choosing us.

Stress-Free Bookings & Changes

Book your tour now and make changes at no cost. Our team is here to make your trip exceptional. We will make sure you are taking the right tour on the right day (on the right island!).

We Provide Custom Island Tours

We are a full-service tour operator and travel agency based here in Hawaii. We provide small group shared and private sightseeing tours. Check out our tours or book a private to customize your day even more.

Tour Experience Full Of Aloha

We will never forget our roots and that is to deliver wonderful island experiences every day. Please reach out to us at any time by email, chat, and text. Or call us between 8 AM and 5 PM daily, Hawaiian time.

• 378 Aliiolani St., Pukalani, HI 96768
• 1-808-900-7253
• [email protected]
• Open Daily 5:00am to 9:00pm, HST

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Turtle Reef Snorkel and Sail (Waikiki)

Activity times, what's included, description, turtle reef snorkel and sail from waikiki.

Operating Hours and Schedule

• The Turtle Reef Snorkel and Sail tour departs from Port Waikiki every day of the week, with some exceptions.
• This tour operates seasonally from April to November.
• Please see the calendar for availability.

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The 5 Best Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Tours from Waikiki

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

When you visit Hawaii, one of the most popular things to do is to hit the water and head out snorkeling. While Oahu has some great snorkeling spots, not many are close to Waikiki. If you’re looking for a snorkeling experience that is close to Waikiki and memorable, you’ll probably enjoy a trip to Turtle Canyon!

I’ll be honest and say that I was really hesitant about heading to Turtle Canyon. I’d heard it was crowded and there wasn’t much to see. While it’s true this is a crowded spot, we were really happy with our tour! We saw plenty of turtles (which our kids were thrilled by) and it was an easy trip to Make from Waikiki.

Most Turtle Canyon snorkeling tours depart from Kewalo Basin Harbor which is just outside of Waikiki and make the short boat ride out to Turtle Canyon. This site is popular and crowded, but it does provide a great snorkeling experience as well as an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the beautiful Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle . 

We have five great tours to choose from for a fun snorkeling trip. 

If you’re looking for a less crowded snorkeling experience, head out to Ko Olina for one of our favorite trips . And if you haven’t booked a place to stay , these 7 Awesome Vacation Rentals in Waikiki should be in the running.

Want the cliff notes version of our favorite tours? Get it right here: – Hop on a small group, 6 person tour on a power raft – This 20 person power boat gives you a great experience at a great price – Jump on a 40 person boat for a fun tour! – Go in luxury on a 55′ catamaran – Book a private or semi-private tour And for your trip to Oahu, make sure you check out our free Oahu Guide . It’ll walk you through nearly everything you need to know to plan your trip.

Turtle Canyon Snorkeling FAQs

How do you snorkel at turtle canyon.

Snorkeling at Turtle Canyon is by boat only, so the best way to snorkel is from a boat tour. There are a number of tours that leave from Kewalo Harbor, which is a short drive from Waikiki. There are a number of different snorkeling tours to choose from, including catamaran tours, raft tours, and kayaking tours. We give our recommendations below!

What is Turtle Canyon?

Just off the coast of Waikiki Beach is an area that is known for its turtle population that has been nicknamed Turtle Canyon. 

The reef at Turtle Canyon is a natural turtle cleaning station, where sea turtles go to have fish come through and clean their shells. Fish will remove algae, barnacles, and even parasites, so this is important for the turtle’s health. Plus it’s also pretty cool to see. It’s no wonder it’s such a popular snorkeling spot.

Hawaii Green Sea Turtles are protected and it’s recommended that you stay at least 10 feet away from them both in water and on land . 

Is Turtle Canyon snorkeling worth it?

If your goal is to see turtles in the water, snorkeling at Turtle Canyon is worth it. This is a great opportunity to see sea turtles and enjoy a boat ride. But a word of caution: this is a crowded spot. It’s the closest snorkeling tour stop near Waikiki and a lot of tours head out there daily. So it’s not a peaceful, serene experience, but it’s still fun. 

We saw a lot of turtles — so many that we lost count. And our five year old son was thrilled recounting the stories of just how many turtles were swimming around.

Related read: If you’re heading to Oahu, chances are a trip to Pearl Harbor is on your list. We’ve rounded up the best Pearl Harbor tours plus give you tips on how to DIY a visit.

Watch our Turtle Canyon snorkeling tour experience with Charter Oahu (listed below) to see if this is the right Oahu snorkeling tour experience for you!

We do these tours so we know what to recommend and write quality, authentic reviews.

Turtle Canyon Tour Tips

While snorkeling at Turtle Canyon is a pretty fun and easy experience, we have a few tips that will make your trip even better. 

1. Get there early for parking

Kewalo Basin parking can be challenging, especially if there is an event going on. We learned our lesson the first time heading to a boat tour when we didn’t leave ourselves enough time to park and there was a surf competition underway at the beach (so parking was very difficult to come by). Leave yourself an extra 15 minutes more than you think you need to park and walk to the slip. And even easier, take an uber or a taxi to skip any parking stresses!

If you want to check out where your boat is, make sure to take a look at the Kewalo Basin Boat Harbor map.

If you’re driving, make sure to check prices with Discount Hawaii Car Rental . We use them almost every time we rent a car and we’ve saved thousands of dollars with them. They offer great rates from the national carriers and there’s no pre-payment required. It’s honestly amazing.

2. Bring reef-safe sunscreen

Mineral-based reef safe sunscreen is the best choice for protecting Hawaii’s delicate reef system. Even better, grab some sun protective clothing and you’ll use less sunscreen and protect your skin more. 

3. Choose the right tour operator

There are a lot of great tours to Turtle Canyon and it might feel difficult to choose. While the ones listed below are great, read through our notes to find the right tour for you. Differences like the number of guests and boat type can make a big difference on your trip. 

Also, make sure you check out cancellation and refund policies. You’ll want to find a tour operator that provides a full refund should you cancel before a certain time or if the trip gets cancelled (for reasons like bad weather).

4. Go early!

The morning tours generally have the best visibility because the trade winds usually pick up later in the day. However, the sea turtles visit the reef often and are there all day long so not to worry if you book a later departure time you will still be able to see lots of tropical fish, sea turtles, and possibly even spinner dolphins on the way out to sea.

Related read: Oahu has some excellent beaches, but you’ve got to know where to find them. Check out our list of the best beaches on Oahu for our top picks, plus directions!

Best Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Tours

​Note that for all of these tours, snorkeling gear  is included in the price (mask, fins, snorkel, and sometimes a floatation device). Use our reviews below to choose the best  turtle canyon  snorkeling excursion for you.

Small Group Tour

Hop aboard a power raft for a 1.5 hour tour to Turtle Canyon. With only 6 passengers, this is a great small group adventure. The raft offers a powerful and agile ride, but it’s only appropriate for kids 5 and up. 

They offer guaranteed turtle sightings and if you don’t see one, you get to go again for free. You’ll spend 45 minutes in the water and then return enjoying juice and water and sights of the Waikiki shoreline. 

Power Boat 20 Person Tour

Take a two-hour trip with Charter Oahu on their 38’ power boat. The boat is partially shaded and comfortable! The boat has room for 27 passengers but they cap the tour at 20 passengers so it doesn’t feel too crowded. 

And while Turtle Canyon is a crowded snorkeling spot, you’ll get a slightly quieter experience with Charter Oahu. They often moor a bit on the outside of the canyon (a place they refer to as Turtle Rock) so you stay out of the crowds. 

This is a small, family-run business, all-female crew, and aside from offering a great tour, they keep their tour prices very reasonable. Our family has a great time on their Turtle Canyon snorkel tour. We paid for the extra photo package which was available on board and we were thrilled that they captured our family memories so well.

This would be a great tour to do with a family. And if you’re coming to Oahu with kids, make sure you check out our favorite family friendly hotels .

Well Priced 40 Passenger Tour

Living Ocean Tours, a family-run small business operates a larger tour (up to 40 passengers) to Turtle Canyon. This two-hour tour departs four times per day and welcomes passengers 3 and up. 

The 50-foot passenger boat has both shaded and full sun areas as well as a bathroom on board. 

After snorkeling, you’ll head back to Waikiki and enjoy refreshments and light snacks while taking in the scenery. 

Catamaran Tour

Hop aboard a 55’ catamaran with Moana Sailing for a cruise out to Turtle Canyon. This two hour tour runs three times per day and can carry up to 48 passengers. 

Enjoying this trip on a catamaran does mean your tour group is larger, but the boat ride is more comfortable and luxurious. Stretch out on the nets in front as you take a break from snorkeling and enjoy the views!

And if luxury is what you’re after, check out our pick for the best luxury hotels on Oahu .

Private and Semi-private Tour

If you’d rather leave the group behind, head out on a private or semi-private (6 person maximum) tour. Started by a local who grew up on Oahu, the captain knows how to make sure you have a great time. When you book a private experience, you can tailor the trip to what you’d like to see.

During whale watching season, December through April, you might even catch a glimpse of humpback whales as you head out. And if you’re really interested in seeing humpback whales, you can also book a whale watching tour with them .

If you have a group of 6 people, booking a private charter is as cost effective as booking everyone on a group tour!

Plan the Rest of Your Trip

Once you’ve booked your snorkeling tour, there is so much more to see! Let our itinerary help you make the most of your trip by taking you on excursion days to different parts of the island. We take you on a planned out route to see the best sights, do the best activities, and stop at the best restaurants.

Your vacation guide was absolutely amazing. Traveling to Hawaii required 100s of decisions from where to stay, what to eat and what to do, and you made it a TON easier. All of your restaurant suggestions were fantastic. Rebecca S.

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the oahu itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Oahu.

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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Maui Turtle Snorkel Tours

Swim and snorkel with Hawaiian sea turtles

Take a tour of Maui’s famous Turtle Town

Want to know a local secret? Turtle Town , a stretch of coastline between Makena ’s One’uli Black Sand Beach and Nahuna Point, is one of the best snorkel locations on the island of Maui. Home to a diverse group of marine life, you’re guaranteed to spot some of Hawaii’s most famous inhabitants—including the iconic green sea turtle. Turtle Town is a local favorite for a reason. And as Maui’s premier ocean activity company, we can help you experience it too.

South Maui Turtle Town Kayak Tour

7 AM TO 10 AM

GROUP TOUR (up to 10 guests)

PRIVATE TOUR

(Private for # guests in your party)

Book Makena Turtle Kayak

• Group Tour - 10 Guests $109 Per Person
• Private Tour 1-4 Guests $756
• Additional Private Guests $189 Per Person
• Group Tour – $109 Per Person ( Up to 10 Guests)
• Private Tour – $756 (1-4 People)
• Additional Guests $189 Per Person

Group Tours require Age 6+ and swimming skills. No age or swimming requirements on private tours.  We use double kayaks except if an odd # of guests.

Launching kayaks from historic  Makena  Landing in the center of  Turtle Town  you’ll have iconic Haleakala in the background.

With dozens of independent reefs throughout Turtle Town, your kayak guide will lead you away from the crowds to snorkel with green  Hawaiian Sea Turtles . This  South Maui  location includes some reefs with underwater caves and arches commonly known as “Five Caves” and “Turtle Arches.” Read more

This tour, with Enzo, was truly one of the most amazing experiences my mom and I have ever had. We would highly recommend!

West Maui Olowalu Kayak Tour

Book olowalu turtle kayak.

Due to the sometimes windy conditions, the West Maui Olowalu location is best for older children and adults who are comfortable in the ocean.  

After a water safety and paddling orientation we depart from  Olowalu  Beach under the backdrop of Mauna Kahalawai (West Maui Mountains).

As your guide navigates you through the shallow coral gardens you won’t help but notice the vivid reef structures everywhere you look. This shallow water playground opens to slightly deeper water where  your guide leads you to a ‘turtle cleaning station’ with an abundance of turtles and marine life . Read more

Private Kayak And Turtle Snorkel Tour

Book private turtle kayak.

Private kayak tours are a great option for first time ocean enthusiast, families with small children, elderly couples and active travelers who don’t want to be held back… but really a private kayaking tour is the best option for discerning travels who are looking for better guest experience on a customized kayak tour.

Enjoy snorkeling with turtles on a private tour in South or West Maui. We will visit popular locations where we know Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles spend a lot of time.  We know all the best areas to swim with turtles and you can do so without a crowd on private tours. Read more

Our tours feature

Weekend vibes. Sharing aloha from Maui. ? #honu

Our happy place. Tag someone you’d snorkel with! #turtle 

Turtle Cleaning Stations are areas of the coral reef where turtles and fish meet for a symbiotic relationship. The turtles get their shells cleaned and the fish get fed…. but the age old question still exists: Which came first…. the turtle or the fish? #maui2020 #Seaturtle #Snorkeling

Happy #TurtleTuesday from Maui!

Why go on a kayak tour with us

Our kayak guides are certified marine naturalists, who are passionate to share their knowledge of Hawaiian Culture and knowledge of the islands.

FREE digital photography included

Our tours are educational and cultural…as well as fun. This environmentally sustainable experience is one not to miss. Watch the video above then call us to start planning your Maui ocean adventure with Hawaiian Paddle Sports.

Hawaiian Paddle Sports

All photos and videos on this website were taken while viewing animals from a responsible distance. Images depicting dolphins or whales in close proximity to people were taken when the animals approached the vessel, and no attempt was made to approach or otherwise disrupt these animals.

• Turtle Canyon Snorkel
• Private Snorkel Tour
• Private Sunset Cruise

Island Splash Tours

Oahu Semi-Private Snorkel Tours

Snorkel With The Turtles

Turtle Canyon Snorkel Tour

Come join us on a semi-private experience along the Waikiki coast where you will swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles at Turtle Canyon. Get ready for the experience of a lifetime, enjoying the local wildlife that Oahu has to offer.

Private Tour

 Book our entire boat for a ~1hour 40min private cruise and/or snorkel. Our boat can take up to 6 guests onboard. Join us for a private snorkel at Waikiki’s Turtle Canyon or take a private cruise towards Diamond Head while looking for dolphins and other marine life along the way.

Fireworks Cruise

    Join us every Friday night for a front row seat to an amazing firework show with Waikiki's beautiful skyline in the background. Sit back and relax with your favorite drinks and watch the spectacular show begin!

About Our Boat

 The Huihui is a 28-foot luxury yacht tender. This vessel is built for the highest comfort and pleasure for our guests in mind. This style of RHIB (Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat) is often used by the US Coast Guard because of its security and reliability.

Onboard the Huihui, there is plenty of space and you will encounter a very intimate experience with the wildlife and our personable crew, as we take only 6 guests per trip. Book our semi-private experience today!

Humpback Whales

   Whale season in Hawaii ranges from early Winter to late Spring. The Humpbacks make a long journey from Alaska to Hawaii to give birth to their calves and mate. Here, we see a mom demonstrating a breach for her calf.

Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles

     Sea turtles can hold their breath underwater for multiple hours at a time. They eat algae, jellyfish, and coral on the reef, and come up to the surface to catch a breath of air as seen in the video above.

Manta Rays feed on zooplankton and other small organisms by opening their mouths wide and allowing the flow of water to bring in food. These animals are quite rare on Oahu, so consider yourself lucky if you encounter one with us!

Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins

Hawaiian spinner dolphins love to swim alongside the boat and play in its wake. They can be seen resting in pods, or jumping out of the water and spinning in the air.

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Turtle Snorkeling in Oahu

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2.5 Hours
• User Ages: Ages 5+

Our Turtle Snorkeling Oahu Tour

Snorkel With Turtles is a company that operates a turtle snorkeling boat trip out of Hawaii Kai on the southeast shore of Oahu. This turtle snorkeling tour has been operating mid May 2021 post Covid-19 shutdowns and we haven’t run a tour yet that hasn’t seen green sea turtles in the wild.

It is a 2.5 hour tour dock to dock. All snorkeling equipment is included. Turtle snorkeling guides are in the water and provide basic instruction on snorkeling for first timers. Floatation is provided, and there are even underwater scooter powered rescue floats for weaker swimmers.

Check for availability

Tours tend to sell out, but you can cancel for a full refund with 24 hours notice.  Turtle Snorkeling Oahu is a popular activity, we recommend that book early, and you can always come back and cancel if your plans change.

What does turtle snorkeling Oahu tour entail?

While there are quite a few turtle snorkeling tours to choose from on the island. Here is how our tour works.

• Chevron down Arrive at 377 Keahole Str Ste E101

You boat departure time is indicated on your booking. You only need to be there prior to departure time. However, delays in transportation can make you miss the boat. It is best to plan on arriving a half hour prior to departure. When you arrive you will fill out a boat travel and snorkeling liability waiver and board the vessel.

• Chevron down The vessel Dive Barge

This boat was built in Hawaii in 1990. It is an older vessel, fairly slow, but very wide and stable on the ocean. We are not going too far, approximately one half mile off shore. The vessel is USCG certified and inspected annually. It is a perfect vessel for turtle snorkeling Oahu.

• Chevron down Get fitted for snorkeling equipment

Once you arrive and are signed in, the staff will begin to hand out snorkeling equipment based on your sizes. There will be time to try on the fins, masks, and positive floatation snorkeling vests. Snorkeling vests are bright yellow, and are not only for floatation, but for easy visibility in the water.

• Chevron down The boat safety briefing

At departure time, the boat safety briefing will begin. The captain will give you are short briefing on the safety features of the vessel and emergency procedures. This briefing is required by the USCG, but is also important safety information in the unlikely event of an emergency.

• Chevron down The boat ride to the snorkeling site

The boat ride out will be used to brief guests on turtle snorkeling oahu procedures. How do I fit a mask? How do I clear a mask of water? How do I clear a snorkel? What is a proper fin kick? How do I use the safety vest? All of these questions will be answered by your snorkeling guide. Experienced snorkelers may already know some of this information, for them it may be a reminder.

• Chevron down The turtle snorkeling Oahu site

The captain will maneuver the vessel to a submerged mooring. These moorings prevent anchor damage at sites we visit daily. A crew member will enter the water to secure the vessel to the mooring. It will then be time to begin snorkeling with turtles! Generally, more experienced swimmers will enter the water first, as they are usually eager to get wet. Less experienced swimmers will be offered the chance to hold onto the large rescue floats for assistance.

Once you in the water you will be able to look down and see the bottom. You will be able to see the turtles resting or feeding there. But wait, it gets better. Turtles breathe air. Every few minutes turtles will swim to the surface to breathe. This is when the close up encounters happen.

Don’t touch the turtles

Beside being illegal, it is also not a good idea for many reasons.  Firstly, these turtles trust us not to harass them.  They see snorkelers and scuba divers every day.  And every day we don’t harass them.  There is a level of trust between human and turtle.  We ask you to respect this, not because it is illegal to touch a turtle (it is), but because it is the right thing to do.  In addition, we will have to remove you from the water for the remainder of the trip.  We are serious.  Don’t touch the turtles.

How close can I get?

Well think social distancing, which is pretty close.  Also, these turtles do trust us and may come closer.  That is okay, just remain still and resist the temptation to reach out and touch them.  Also, when they are coming up to breath, leave them a clear path to the surface.  They will take about 5 breaths and then head back down to the bottom.

• Chevron down Beside the green sea turtle, what else will we see?

The ledges that you see underwater are the remains of collapsed lava tubes. All kinds of reef fish and coral are down there, about 30 feet. The first fish that you will notice will be the ones that live in the water column above the bottom and will be closer to you. Some of these species are:

• The black triggerfish – a relative of the state fish, it is an all black fish with an intricate pattern of dark green/purple on its face.
• The Hawaiian sargent – you will be able to identify this damselfish by its oval shape and pattern of dark bars across the body (think prison bars)
• The pennant butterfly fish – white and yellow alternating pattern across the body of the fish with a long streamer pennant coming of the top of the fish
• The state fish – the humuhumunukunukuapuaha. Yes, that is really the name. It is also a triggerfish. This one you will need to look for on the bottom. It is mostly orange with a yellow V lade sideways on it back half.
• Moray eels on the bottom
• Small white tip reef sharks (zero danger)
• And we have even seen Monk Seals (critically endangered)
• Humpback whales in season

Turtle Snorkeling Oahu additional free online training

While the turtle snorkeling Oahu tour we offer is snorkeling only, it is associated with the scuba diving shops Island Divers Hawaii and Honolulu Scuba Company . The shops sponsor free online training for those who would like to prepare as much as possible for the experience.  It is not required.  The guides are going to cover this material in the briefings before you get in the water.  However, if you would like to learn a little more online, here is how you do that.

Create a free account with SSI and download the MySSI app

Once you have the MySSI app opened, navigate to Programs and Cards. One of the free programs you will find there is Snorkel Diver.  That is the program relevant to our experience, but once you are there you may find other free online learning that interests you.  Blue Oceans is an interesting ocean conservation program. There are others: Try Scuba, Try Freediving, Mermaid. All of it is free, so enjoy.

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Jet Snorkel with Turtles at Electric Beach - Guided Tour with Waikiki Pick-up

VERY COOL TOUR!!

Highly recommended, 3.5 hour(s) incl. transportation, available daily, pick-up available, not accessible.

Limited time only

What to expect

Why do travelers choose this tour, how does it work, local expert tips.

• If you are not planning on renting a car while on Oahu, this is the perfect way to have a Hawaii snorkel tour outside of Honolulu. The west side is much quieter and calmer than Waikiki, so it is a must-visit on any Hawaiian vacation.
• For you early birds, the 8:00AM tour will have the most likely possibility of seeing Hawaiian spinner dolphins, and while not guaranteed, these marine mammals enjoy resting and relaxing in shallower waters in the morning.
• Even though this tour is for beginners, participants should still be comfortable swimming in the open ocean. The handheld underwater scooters will have you quickly exploring the waters once you head into the ocean.
• Recommend attire: Wear your swimsuit under your clothing, and footwear that is easy to remove like flip flops or sandals.
• Recommend items to bring: Any valuable personal items should be left at the hotel since whatever is not coming with you into the water will stay in the van, but be sure to bring a smart phone with you so that you can receive the digital photos and video your guide will be taking during the tour.
• Participation period: 2023/12/01 - 2024/12/31
• Until: 2024/12/31

Pick-up at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki

The experienced dive professionals will guide you through the essentials of snorkeling as they provide information and instruction on the beach. To help you become acclimated with the basic snorkeling skills, you will also be introduced to waist-deep water that are approximately 3 ft in depth.

Depending on how long it takes for the group to get comfortable with the equipment, have up to an hour and a half of underwater exploring at Oahu's best snorkel spot. The handheld scooter will have you swimming and snorkeling with ease as you make your way around the coral reefs, turtles, and fish!

Drop-off at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki

Transportation add-ons

Pick-up/check-in time & location.

Drop-off/Check-out Time & Location

Start time :

• Koa Avenue by the green awning

Important activity information

Restrictions.

• Guests who are pregnant are not permitted to participate in this activity.
• Guests with neck, back or joint problems are not permitted to participate in this activity.
• This activity is not wheelchair accessible.
• Children 10 years old and above can participate in this activity.
• Guests must be physically able to swim in the open ocean.

Other requirements

• Participants are required to sign a liability waiver at the time of check-in.
• Minors are required to have a parent or guardian sign their liability waiver.
• Although flotation devices will be provided and strong swimming ability is not needed, guests will still need to be comfortable in the open ocean.

Booking requirements (# of participants, vehicles, hours, etc.)

• You can book a maximum of 14.

Required items to bring & attire

• Bottled water
• Wear swimsuit under clothing
• Change of clothes
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Smart phone to receive digital photos and video at the end of the tour
• Guests who normally wear glasses will need to wear contacts or bring their own prescription goggles. You will not be able to wear your glasses while snorkeling

Additional notes

• The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
• The activity provider does not assume any responsibility for your valuables and/or personal belongings.
• The tour guide has full discretion to refuse service to customers based on attire, behavior, physical fitness and condition.
• Gratuity is not included in the price.
• Guests outside of Waikiki who are driving to the pick-up location will need to secure their own parking. There are ample private parking lots and hotel parking available for varying prices at and around the Hyatt Regency Waikiki.
• Restrooms and freshwater showers are available at Electric Beach.
• There will be no stops for food or drinks during the tour, so be sure to bring ample water and any snacks you wish to eat.
• If you do not feel comfortable going into the deeper waters after the safety briefing and snorkeling lesson, you are welcome to wait at the beach, but no refunds will be provided.
• Free Video: Customers will need to Download the GoPro App on their phone prior to their tour, so that after the tour, they can download the video directly to their phones.

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Traveler's photos.

Overall rating

This was such an awesome tour! This was my first time visiting Hawaii and this tour made it so much more special and memorable! I got to see so much marine life. I got to see a lot of sea turtles, fish, starfish, sea urc ... hins, and even a seal lion. Robert and Andrew are amazing tour guides. They're very helpful and knowledgeable. I will definitely do this tour again when I come back to visit. I highly recommend this tour! You won't be disappointed! I do recomend you bring a snorkel mask that has a GoPro mount on it so you can have your own videos.

The experience from the shuttle pick up/drop off to guidance and snorkeling are exceptional and amazing. We experienced as it detailed on the booking website. After booking, I received the picture of the pickup locati ... on which is easy to find. Keep your eye to find the shuttle van, he parked across the street when there were 3 coach bus parked in front of the entrance. The van showed up on time and could fit up to 14 people. The van is clean, comfortable seating, and good AC. The driver introduced the Electric Beach and talked about the places. After dropping off, the driver introduced Jose and Jorge who were the snorkeling guides. They are very friendly and acknowledged. One of my friend did not confident to swim in the ocean, but she trusted Jose and went to the water with us. Jose and Jorge made sure everyone stick together under their guidance. All the gears (snorkeling masks, fins, life jackets, jet machines) were provided. Jorge had his GoPro to record the fun moment and shared to us at the end. My group loves this experience as many of us had no swimming experience but Jose and Jorge made it easy, fun, and safe.

Rain in the morning but still so fun!

The guides where fun and informative, as wll as very helpful getting me ready for the snorkle. I have snorkeled a lot but never with a jet before, that was so fun and fast. The fish were beautiful and the turtles seemed ... to have all the chill. Super stoked to have booked this tour, Thank you guys!

Activity Provider Paradise Cruising LLC DBA Island Cruzin Hawaii | Jet Snorkel

Activity provider, payment / cancellation policy.

• Credit card payment

• Any cancellations made after 08:00 local time, 2 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.
• Any changes made after 08:00 HST, 2 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/time, package, the number of participants, etc.

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Cancellation Policy

Change policy.

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The Best Family-Friendly Destinations For Sea Turtle Lovers, According To Research

S ea turtles are fascinating creatures that can be found in nearly every ocean on the planet. They love warm water, coral reefs, and beaches, which is why you can often find them in tropical destinations. Seeing them in the wild is an amazing experience, especially considering that six of the seven species of sea turtles are classified as endangered. If you have a family member who loves sea turtles, there are several family-friendly destinations where you can see these majestic marine animals in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts to protect them.

Planning a family trip to a place where you can see sea turtles takes some careful consideration. First and foremost, you want to make sure the destination is safe for travelers of all ages. Secondly, you want to ensure that the sea turtles in that location aren't being exploited or put in danger. Conservation is critical to their survival. If you have little ones in tow, you probably also want the destination to have some kid-friendly activities other than just spotting sea turtles. After researching destinations that offer sea turtle encounters, we've chosen vacation spots that tick all the family-friendly boxes, making them ideal for travelers of all ages. You can learn more about or methodology for picking these destinations at the end of the article.

Read more: The Prettiest Waters Around The World

Maui, Hawaii, U.S.

If you love sea turtles and want to travel to a place where you're almost guaranteed to see them in the wild, then Maui should be your next vacation destination . This Hawaiian island is home to several types of sea turtles, including hawksbills, green turtles, leatherbacks, olive ridleys, and loggerheads. You're most likely to spot Hawaiian green turtles swimming in the waters along Maui's west and south coasts. Sometimes they even come onto the beaches to bask in the sun. Some of the top spots to see turtles include Turtle Town at Maluaka Beach and Black Rock at Kaʻanapali Beach. Just be sure to give the turtles plenty of space.

If you have small children who aren't able to snorkel or swim to see turtles, you can visit the Maui Ocean Center to see the Turtle Lagoon Exhibit. The exhibit features up to six turtles on display that you can view from the surface of the water and underwater. There are also educational programs to teach visitors about the turtles and their importance to marine ecosystems. Kids will also love the 3D humpback whale experience, the living reef display, and the open ocean exhibit with live sharks and rays.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Australia's Great Barrier Reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to six of the world's seven species of sea turtles. You can take guided tours to see turtles on the reef, including snorkeling excursions, scuba diving trips, and glass-bottom boat tours. Fitzroy Island is a great spot to see turtles in the wild and at the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Center . Green Island is a family-friendly island where you can often see turtles swimming in the water. The dry season runs from May to October, making this  the ideal time to visit the Great Barrier Reef for the best visibility .

One of the best places to base yourself for trips to the Great Barrier Reef is Cairns on Queensland's northeastern coast. The weather in Cairns is warm year-round, making it a popular tropical vacation destination. There are also plenty of activities on offer for kids. Families can go hiking in rainforests to discover waterfalls, visit the Cairns Aquarium , and see wild animals at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures . There are also plenty of hotels with pools in Cairns, as well as restaurants that cater to all tastes.

Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica

Located on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, Tortuguero National Park is a prime nesting site for leatherbacks, hawksbills, loggerheads, and green sea turtles. In fact, the area was named after the turtles — Tortuguero means "region of turtles." The protected sanctuary has winding canals, lagoons, and sandy beaches where the turtles nest from May to November. Local guides can take you to see the turtles nesting at night. Depending on when you come, you might be able to see the baby turtles hatching and running towards the sea. Just remember to be very quiet and keep a decent distance between you and the turtles.

Tortuguero National Park is about a three-hour drive from the capital city of San Jose. Because most of the turtle activity takes place at night, you'll probably want to stay in the small town of Tortuguero close to the park. There are several hotels and lodges nearby. Aninga Lodge is a kid-friendly spot with comfortable bungalows, a restaurant, a spa, and a turtle-shaped pool. Pachira Lodge is located on the main lagoon and has room packages that include transportation to and from San Jose, entrance to the Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC)  visitor center, and boat rides along the canals.

Akumal, Mexico

Akumal means "place of the turtles" in the Mayan language. This beautiful beach town on the Riviera Maya in Mexico is known for its abundance of green sea turtles. The area is rich in seagrass, which the turtles love feeding on. The soft, sandy beaches are also the perfect environments for nesting. If you go snorkeling in Akumal Bay, there's a good chance you'll encounter a turtle. You can swim in the green zones along Akumal Beach, but the red zones are protected and can only be entered with a guide.

While many people visit Akumal on a day trip from Cancún, the town is actually a very pleasant place to stay. It has a laid-back vibe, which is perfect for a relaxed family beach holiday. At the same time, Akumal has everything you could want in a resort town, including all-inclusive resorts, shops, and restaurants. The beaches have white sand, and the turquoise waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. When you're not swimming with sea turtles, you can take a trip to a cenote nearby, visit the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary , explore ancient Mayan ruins, or go zip-lining in the jungle.

Gili Islands, Indonesia

The Gili Islands are three small islands off the coast of Lombok that are rimmed with sugary, white sand and surrounded by aquamarine waters. They're wildly popular with both tourists and sea turtles. The most common species people encounter around the Gili Islands is the green turtle, although hawksbills are also spotted on occasion. Gili Trawangan is the largest of the three islands and the best spot to see sea turtles. They usually swim along the northeast side of the island in an area called Turtle Point. You can often see turtles just swimming out from the beach.

Gili Trawangan is a car-free island with accommodations to suit all types, including guesthouses, bungalows, beach resorts, and villas. There are also plenty of restaurants and beach bars. The island does have a reputation as a party island though, so if you're looking for something a bit more chill, you may want to consider staying on Gili Air or Gili Meno. Both have hotels and villas that are suitable for families. Gili Meno also has a turtle sanctuary where you can see baby turtles and join release programs for a small donation.

Boa Vista, Cape Verde

Cape Verde is an archipelago off the coast of West Africa that is the third-largest nesting site for loggerhead turtles in the world. Most of the nesting happens on the island of Boa Vista. Several organizations on the island work tirelessly to protect the turtles and their nesting grounds. Between July and October, you can join guided tours to see turtles nesting on the beach. If you're lucky, you may even see baby turtles hatching and be able to help them on their way to the sea.

There are plenty of places to stay on Boa Vista that are perfect for families. All-inclusive resorts are popular choices because they have amenities like swimming pools, restaurants, and spas. Most also offer a wide range of entertainment options like water sports, games for kids, live music, and shows. There are also a handful of hotels and vacation rentals in Sal-Rei, which is the main town on the island. If you want to eat out, there are several restaurants and beach clubs around the island that serve local and international cuisine.

Saona Island, Dominican Republic

With powdery, white sand beaches and incredibly clear waters, it's no wonder sea turtles love Saona Island. This small island is an important nesting site for hawksbill, leatherback, and green turtles. Hawksbills are the most common turtles on the island, nesting mostly on the southern beaches. You might not see turtles on the main tourist beaches here, but you can visit the Saona Island Turtle Sanctuary in the small village of Mano Juan. At the sanctuary, you can visit the turtle hatchery where eggs are kept safe until the baby turtles hatch, and with advanced notice, you may even be able to join a turtle release.

Saona Island is just 12 miles south of the Dominican Republic's main island, making it easy to get to from Punta Cana or Bayahibe. Most people come here on a day trip, although there is a basic bed and breakfast on the island. Several tour companies will take you to the island on a catamaran or speed boat. Some also include a trip to the Saona Island Turtle Sanctuary. Remember that hawksbill turtles are listed as critically endangered, so be very careful where you tread on the beaches and keep your distance if you happen to come across one in the wild.

Koh Tao, Thailand

Koh Tao (which translates to Turtle Island) is one of the most popular diving and snorkeling destinations in Thailand thanks to its clear, calm waters and abundant coral reefs just offshore. Visitors can often spot green and hawksbill turtles while exploring the waters around the island. Many dive centers on the island offer guided tours to turtle hotspots such as Tanote Bay and Buddha Point. You can also see turtles swimming close to shore at spots like Jansom Bay and Sai Daeng Beach.

One of the great things about Koh Tao is that it appeals to so many types of travelers. Families, solo travelers, and partners looking for a relaxing couples beach vacation  will find a wide array of hotels, restaurants, and fun activities to do. If you don't know how to scuba dive, Koh Tao is a great place to learn. Kids 10 years and older can take PADI courses through one of the island's many dive centers. Younger kids can enjoy beach days, boat rides, and cultural activities like Thai dance performances. The Koh Tao Leisure Park has attractions for all ages, including an 18-hole mini golf course, a cinema, pool tables, and a kid's play area.

Fernando De Noronha, Brazil

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fernando de Noronha is a stunning archipelago off the northeast coast of Brazil. The protected marine park is home to a staggering amount of marine life, including hawksbills and green turtles. The female turtles lay their nests on the beaches between the months of December and June, making this the perfect destination during cold weather months for sea turtle lovers. Families can take guided diving and snorkeling trips to swim with the turtles. You can also visit the  Projeto TAMAR open-air sea turtle museum.

It should be noted that Fernando de Noronha is not the easiest or cheapest place to visit. To protect the marine environment, the government limits the number of tourists who can visit the Fernando de Noronha islands every day. Every visitor must pay an environmental preservation fee of R$97.16 (approximately $20) per day. In addition, you'll also have to purchase a ticket to enter the marine park, which costs R$358 (about $72) and is valid for 10 days. While it can be pricey to visit the islands, those who don't mind splashing out will be rewarded with spectacular scenery and the opportunity to spot sea turtles in the wild.

Carlisle Bay, Barbados

Barbados is home to three types of sea turtles: hawksbills, leatherbacks, and green turtles. While the turtles can be found on nearly every coast of the island, Carlisle Bay is one of the top spots to see them gliding gracefully through the water. You can often see the turtles while swimming and snorkeling in the clear waters of the bay. If you prefer guided tours, there are several tour companies that offer diving and snorkeling excursions, catamaran trips, and glass-bottom kayak tours.

It's easy to see why so many families flock to Barbados. The island has beautiful white sand beaches, all-inclusive resorts with attractive amenities, and interesting attractions. Bridgetown is a good place to base yourself if you want to be close to turtles, as that's where you'll find Carlisle Bay. The capital city is also home to historic buildings, inviting shops, and tons of restaurants. Suppose you want to get out of the city and explore the island. In that case, kids will love watching monkeys at the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, exploring underground caverns in Harrison's Cave, and strolling through tropical gardens at the Flower Forest .

Melbourne Beach, Florida, U.S.

Every year between March and October, thousands of sea turtles make their way to Florida's Space Coast to lay their eggs on the soft, sandy beaches. Melbourne Beach is one of their preferred nesting spots. During this time, you can spot loggerhead, leatherback, and green turtles. You may even get to see hatchlings tumbling down the dunes to the ocean. The best way to spot the turtles is on a guided turtle walk with the Sea Turtle Conservancy or Sea Turtle Preservation Society. The walks can be fun and enlightening experiences for turtle lovers of all ages.

Melbourne tends to be less touristy than other places along the Space Coast, but there are still plenty of things to see and do for all ages. Animal lovers can visit the Brevard Zoo or go hiking in the Turkey Creek Sanctuary to see manatees and otters. If the weather takes a turn, you can spend the day at Route 7 for some go-karting, laser tag, or mini-bowling. The Kennedy Space Center is about an hour's drive from Melbourne and a must for future astronauts. Visitors can learn about space exploration, see a real-life space shuttle, and even witness rocket launches at various times throughout the year.

Lhaviyani Atoll, The Maldives

The Maldives is an island nation in the Indian Ocean that consists of nearly 1,200 tropical islands clustered in atolls. With that in mind, choosing the right Maldives island for your vacation style can be tricky. If seeing sea turtles is a top priority for you, then Lhaviyani Atoll is a good bet. Green sea turtles gather on the coral reefs around the islands in the atoll. They particularly like to congregate around Kuredu Island, making this an excellent spot to swim with turtles on a diving or snorkeling trip. Families can also visit the Oliver Ridley Project Marine Center to learn about Kuredu's green turtles.

Kuredu Island Resort & Spa is the only hotel on the tiny island of Kuredu, and it's perfectly primed for families. You can opt for a private pool villa, a water villa on wooden stilts over the ocean, or a beach bungalow right on the sand. Kids will love cooling off in the resort's pools, playing games in the kid's club, and dining at the underwater restaurant while fish swim overhead. The resort also has a golf course, gym, spa, as well as tennis and padel courts.

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Isla Mujeres is located just off the coast of Cancún, and it's a beautiful spot to stay or visit on a day trip if you love sea turtles. The clear waters and white sand beaches attract loggerhead, hawksbill, and green turtles, particularly between the mating and nesting seasons from May to September. If you go snorkeling in the waters around the island, you can often see turtles swimming. To see turtles on land, you can visit Tortugranja (The Turtle Farm) to see hatchlings and feed rescued turtles.

If you're looking for a more laid-back Mexican beach vacation , Isla Mujeres is lesser known than nearby Cancún, so it doesn't get the same crowds that its mega-resort neighbor does. The central area of the island is just four blocks by six blocks, making it very walkable. Stroll the streets and you'll find colorful murals, shops, and restaurants. Accommodations range from boutique hotels to all-inclusive beach resorts. There are also tons of kid-friendly activities on offer, including snorkeling tours, zip lining, and a Mayan temple. MUSA is a fascinating underwater museum with hundreds of sculptures by local artists. You can dive and snorkel here or see the sculptures on a glass-bottom boat trip.

Methodology

With so many locations around the world where sea turtles gather, narrowing down the best family-friendly spots was no easy task. Our research led us to these destinations because first and foremost, they are safe to travel to. Crime rates are low and there are no high travel alerts for any of these destinations. In addition, these spots have plenty of amenities that appeal to all ages. 

Families can stay at resorts with pools and kid's clubs, go on tours, take part in activities suitable for little ones, and find restaurants serving a wide variety of food to appeal to picky palates. In addition, these spots have conservation initiatives in place to protect the turtles. Children can learn about why turtles are so important for ecosystems and how to safely interact with turtles in the wild. Happy turtle spotting!

Read the original article on Explore .

Sea Turtles Need Help During Nesting Season

HONOLULU — Sea turtle nesting season has begun! Federal and state agencies are asking people to lookout for honu (Hawaiian green), honu ʻea (Hawaiian hawksbill) , and olive ridley turtles during the 202 3 sea turtle nesting season. The people of Hawai ʻi can help by reporting any observations of nesting sea turtles, unusually large ‘pits’ in the sand (which may indicate a nest), or any baby turtles (or hatchlings) found along the beaches of Hawai ʻi .

Sea turtles nest on Hawaiʻi beaches from mid-April through September, however, nesting can extend into December. People can ensure that they successfully lay their eggs by keeping a respectful distance of at least 10 feet from sea turtles and their nest s . And then quickly report any nesting activit y to the NOAA Fisheries Marine Wildlife Hotline at 1-888-256-9840 .

“Two of the most important things we can do for sea turtles is give them space when they are on land and keep lights from being seen from the beach,” said Joy Browning, Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife biologist. “Most activity associated with nesting occurs at night. Lights that can been seen from the beach can cause hatchlings that just emerged from the nest to become disoriented. A disoriented turtle may wan d er inland or become trapped, unable to locate the ocean. This uses up precious calories, lowering their chances of survival. While we don’t know how many turtles will actively nest along Hawaiʻi beaches this year, both state and federal agencies are gearing up to work with our community volunteers to locate and monitor sea turtle nests.”

Honu are known to use beaches state-wide, but nest mostly on Lalo (French Frigate Shoals) in Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument . H onu‘ea nest primarily on the islands of Hawaiʻi, Maui, and Moloka‘i. Olive ridley nests have been found on the islands of Hawaiʻi, Maui, and Oʻahu, but are extremely rare.

Nesting activity can be difficult to identify because sea turtles both nest and bask on Hawaiʻi beaches . Here are a few tips on how to tell if a turtle is nesting or basking:

Nesting Behaviors :

• Sea turtles typically lay their nest at night near or under coastal vegetation, and well above the high tide line.
• Sea turtles d igging with their rear flippers, then departing the beach is likely an indicator of nesting activity.

Basking Behaviors :

• B asking sea turtles are usually found closer to the water (near the high tide line) both during the day and at night.
• Sea turtles may move sand with their front flippers when basking, but may settle down and go to sleep on the beach afterwards.

Everyone in Hawaiʻi can protect sea turtles. If you see sea turtles on the beach, in the water, or observe any suspected nesting activity, please remember to:   

• Harassing or disrupting sea turtles or their nests can incur hefty fines.
• Avoid blocking their access to or from the ocean.
• ​​​​​​​ Report illegal beach driving to the Police Department or the DLNR Enforcement Hotline: ( 808 ) 643-DLNR or the DLNRTip app.
• Light pollution can disorient adult and hatchling sea turtles , leading them to wander inland, into vegetation or roads, and away from the ocean.
• If you suspect that you may live near a nesting beach, please contact the Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office at (808) 792-9400 and request information on turtle-friendly lighting.
• Ensure fishing line or rubbish is disposed of properly so sea turtles and their hatchlings do not become entangled. E no'ono'o pono and help keep our reefs and beaches clean.
• Keep dogs leashed to avoid disturbance to sea turtles and other marine wildlife.
• Report suspecting nesting activities to the NOAA Fisheries Marine Wildlife Hotline: 1-888-256-9840.

L earn more about the agencies working together to protect endangered species here in Hawai ʻi. Visit us at Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office , NOAA Fish eri es , and Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Aquatic Resources . Community members interested in volunteering can visit NOAA’s Pacific Islands Volunteer Opportunities webpage.

For archived photos and videos of sea turtles, visit our USFWS Pacific Region Flickr page . 

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. For more information, visit www.fws.gov/pacificislands , or connect with us through any of these social media channels at https://www.facebook.com/PacificIslandsFWS , www.flickr.com/photos/usfwspacific/ ,  https://medium.com/usfwspacificislands or www.twitter.com/USFWSPacific .

NOAA Fisheries is responsible for the stewardship of the nation’s ocean resources and their habitat. We work to ensure sustainable fisheries and protect marine life, backed by sound science and an ecosystem-based approach to management. For more information, visit https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/region/pacific-islands , or connect with us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/usnoaafisheriespacificislands/ , https://twitter.com/NOAAFish_PIRO , or https://twitter.com/NOAAFish_PIFSC .

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Sea Turtle Week 2024: Partners in Conservation

June 17, 2024

A message from Kim Damon-Randall, director of NOAA Fisheries Office of Protected Resources, for Sea Turtle Week, June 17–21.

Welcome to NOAA Fisheries’ Sea Turtle Week 2024! This week-long celebration is an annual event to highlight sea turtle conservation and partnership. This year our celebration highlights scientists working to conserve sea turtles, partnerships across the globe, and what you can do to save sea turtles. 

All six species of sea turtles that inhabit U.S. waters are listed as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act:

• Kemp’s ridley
• Leatherback
• Olive ridley

We lead the conservation and recovery of sea turtles in the marine environment including areas for resting, feeding, migrating, and access to nesting sites. We use  innovative techniques to study and protect sea turtles. 

Working Closely With Partners

We work closely with partners across the nation and the globe to conserve and recover sea turtles. Sea turtles travel thousands of miles each year to breed, forage, and seasonally migrate. Coordination and partnerships with many different communities are critical to understand and reduce threats to these species.   

Working With Mexico to Reduce Sea Turtle Bycatch

Coastal waters around Mexico are an important habitat for six sea turtle species, including the endangered loggerhead and leatherback sea turtles. In recent decades, both populations have suffered declines due to numerous threats, including incidental capture in fisheries, also known as bycatch.  

The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement Sea Turtle Bycatch Reduction Project is a collaborative effort to recover North Pacific loggerhead sea turtles and East Pacific leatherback sea turtles, as well as other sea turtle species. The project reduces sea turtle bycatch in gillnet and longline fisheries and promotes sustainable fisheries. Through this collaboration, project partners are building trust with local communities along the Pacific coast of Mexico to develop bycatch reduction solutions together with local fishers. An example of this successful work is the co-design and testing of new low-bycatch fishing gear, such as buoyless nets targeting halibut and other bottom-dwelling fish.

Sea Turtle Stranding and Salvage Network 

The Sea Turtle Stranding and Salvage Network is a cooperative effort of federal, state, and permitted private partners. Its goal is to better understand sea turtle strandings to improve conservation efforts. This collaborative network: 

• Collects data on dead, sick, injured, and cold stunned sea turtles
• Documents wounds and abnormalities
• Transports sick and injured sea turtles to permitted rehabilitation facilities
• Educates the public about sea turtle conservation

The Network needs your help. If you see a sick or injured sea turtle, contact your  local sea turtle stranding network for assistance. A trained and authorized responder can take appropriate action. 

What You Can Do To Save Sea Turtles

You can do your part to help conserve sea turtles by being conscious when making choices in and around the water. Here’s how you can protect sea turtles: 

Slow Down and Look Out

Sea turtles surface to breathe and linger on the surface while breathing. Larger turtles—subadults and adults—have slower reflexes and may have a hard time responding to quick-moving boats and jet skis. When boating near reef or seagrass habitats, harbors, jetties, and boat ramps, or near  nesting beaches during the nesting season, reduce your speed to 10 knots or less. Keep an eye out for sea turtles. 

Retrieve and Recycle Fishing Gear or Plastic Marine Debris

Keep a close eye on your gear while fishing, especially in areas where turtles are present. Hooks, lines, or nets left in the water can entangle and kill sea turtles. If you lose your gear while fishing or find abandoned gear (or plastic debris), pull it out of the water safely and dispose of it properly. Gear and plastics in the water or tangled up on reefs can catch, injure, or drown a sea turtle.

Keep Your Snacks to Yourself

Sea turtle diets vary by species, and include jellyfish, crabs, mollusks, sponge, algae, and seagrass. However, they can become accustomed to being fed by humans and can develop an unnatural taste for commonly used bait such as fish or squid. This makes them more likely to take a baited hook, increasing the risk of hooking or entanglement. 

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Last updated by Office of Protected Resources on June 17, 2024