Best Places to Snorkel with Turtles: Oahu Sea Turtle Guide

Are you trying to find all the best places to snorkel with turtles in Oahu? In this post, I’ll break down all the places to check out to make sure you spot a sea turtle!

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Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to, and the sea life in the crystal clear waters is a huge part of what makes it so special.

I spent a week on the island of Oahu, and one of the top things on my list I wanted to do was see a sea turtle! And trust me, if you want to see one you’ll definitely be able to make it happen.

There are actually 5 types of Hawaiian sea turtles you may find throughout the Hawaiian Islands: Hawksbill Sea Turtle, Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, Leatherback Sea Turtles, and Olive Ridley Sea Turtles. You’re probably most likely to see the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle on your adventures – but hawksbill turtles are pretty popular too!

There are a few things you should know before heading out to all the best places to snorkel with turtles in Oahu:

Sea Turtles are a protected species in Hawaii! There are several regulations on how to interact with sea turtles including under the Endangered Species Act. Because of this, you must always stay 10 feet away from the turtles – whether on land or swimming with them in the ocean. It is illegal to touch, chase, feed, or harass them in any way! Always let them live out their life in their natural habitat. If you are visiting in April through December keep in mind that this is their nesting season. Take extra precautions on beaches where they may be laying their eggs.
If you’re snorkeling – use reef-safe sunscreen! Hawaii has actually banned certain sunscreens that contain certain chemicals. So you avoid getting in trouble, and more so help protect the beautiful coral reefs make sure you do some research on the sunscreen you are taking with you!
Check the water conditions before getting in! The ocean waters can get rough at times, so you always want to make sure you are being mindful before snorkeling. Safety is always important.
Consider doing a guided snorkeling tour if you’ve never snorkeled before. Not only will it help to keep you safe if you are inexperienced, but they’ll also know some of the best areas the turtles typically hang out in.
The best conditions for seeing green turtles will be in the summer months. They are typically around the shore during the early morning or in the evenings. Try to pick a day and area with calm waters.

If you’re planning a trip to Oahu, Hawaii soon don’t worry I’m giving you all the best spots to experience this unique opportunity and have the most unforgettable experience

This post is all about the best places to snorkel with turtles in Oahu!

Best Places to Snorkel With Turtles in Oahu!

1.) Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach)

Well of course I had to start with the beach literally nicknamed because of the turtles in the area! Laniakea Beach is known for being a popular spot for the green sea turtles to rest on the sandy beaches. I do want to point out that this beach is not great for snorkeling because it’s pretty rocky and can have strong currents – but you’ll still get some good sea turtle spotting on the north shore!

2.) Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

When I visited Hawaii, one of my favorite views was of Hanauma Bay. It is absolutely stunning. For $25 you can enter the park. You’ll have to watch a short video that will educate you on marine life and how to preserve it as well as rules of how to take care of the beautiful preserve.

When you enter they’ll have a golf cart that takes you down a huge hill, giving you the most gorgeous bird eye view of the crystal-clear waters.

Hanauma Bay is definitely a top snorkeling spot in Hawaii. The waters are calm and clear making it the perfect conditions for spotting some marine life!

3.) Turtle Canyon

Turtle Canyon is actually a little off the coast of Oahu, so you’ll have to take a boat – but it’s well worth the trip! The best way to get there and snorkel in the area is by booking a snorkeling tour, all of which leave daily out of Waikiki.

The boat ride to and from Turtle Canyon only takes about 10 to 20 minutes. If you book a tour light refreshments are included and you’ll have a guide to show you the best places to spot turtles! Also, snorkel gear will be provided for you.

Snorkeling in the summer is suggested for this location because the warm waters tend to be a lot calmer!

4.) Waikiki Beach

Waikiki is definitely the hub for tourists in Hawaii. When I went to Hawaii our hotel was right on the beach. It’s a great place to stay because you’re surrounded by the beautiful Waikiki Beach and tons of shops and restaurants – just make sure you venture out because Oahu has so much more to offer at some of their less busy beaches.

You can snorkel on this beach, but to be honest I would opt for some of the other less populated beaches. You’re way more likely to see some good marine life venturing out a little bit.

5.) Electric Beach (Kahe Point Beach Park)

Electric Beach got its name because of its location near a power plant. This beach became a prime spot for snorkeling because of the very power plant it is named for.

There is a pipe coming from the power plant that goes along the reef, and there is a huge outpouring of warm water from the power plant. Because of this tons of fish and sea turtles are attracted to the area – making it the perfect place for snorkeling because of its abundant marine life!

6.) Shark’s Cove

Shark’s Cove is often regarded as one of the best places for snorkeling in the world. It’s located on Oahu’s North Shore.

It’s a very rocky beach so make sure you are careful getting in and out of the water. As always check the weather before snorkeling here as well. Shark’s Cove can sometimes have some bad water conditions making swimming difficult and dangerous.

But if the weather is nice this is by far one of the best places for snorkeling with turtles!

7.) Makaha Beach Park

Makaha Beach is great for surfing, fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving! They do consider it to be better suited for more advanced snorkelers because sometimes the water can get a little rough. Always make sure to check the safety conditions before jumping in!

8.) Kuilima Cove

If you’re looking for more of a beginner snorkeler paradise, Kuilima Cove is a great choice for you! The waters are typically a lot calmer.

Whether you’re swimming in shallow waters or deeper waters remember to always stay safe – and have the best time seeing all the beautiful things Hawaii has to offer!

Visiting Hawaii was truly one of the best experiences of my entire life. I hope to go back again in the near future.

Keep in mind during your travels that it is so easy to get from island to island, so I always recommend doing a little island hopping on your way. Flights are cheap and typically less than an hour so you can leave first thing in the morning and spend your whole day experiencing a new part of the island.

I travel from Nashville – so it’s quite a long flight.. but no matter where you are coming from it typically is a long travel time. For me it was around 10 hours, plus we had a pretty long layover. All this to say I highly suggest setting aside quite a bit of time to be there since it can often take a full day of travel time there and back.

Hope you have an amazing stay!