Turtle Talk

What’s a day like for a Hawaiian green sea turtle? From sunrise swims to underwater naps and slow grazing sessions, their routine is peaceful and steady. Learn how they see, rest, eat, and even interact beneath the Hawaiian waves.

Hawaiʻi is home to some of the world’s most remarkable sea turtles, including the beloved green sea turtle and the rare hawksbill. These creatures are protected by law and play a vital role in the ocean ecosystem. This guide breaks down the types of turtles in Hawaiʻi, how they differ from other turtles, and why they need our protection.

If swimming alongside sea turtles is on your Hawaiʻi travel checklist, you’ll want to know which island offers the best chance to do it. While Maui and the Big Island lead the way for turtle snorkeling, Oʻahu follows close behind—with Turtle Canyon offering some of the best-rated tours in the state.

Sea turtles living in the Pacific Ocean and around Hawaii are in serious danger, and climate change is a big part of the problem. From rising sand temperatures that change the gender of hatchlings to the loss of nesting beaches and food sources, these ancient creatures are struggling to adapt in a warming world.

Oahu's marine reserves are more than just scenic coastline; they're essential safe spaces for Hawaii's sea turtles. These protected areas give turtles the room they need to nest, recover, and thrive. From the massive Papahanaumokuakea to small local sanctuaries, Oahu's marine system plays a key role in protecting both turtles and the coral ecosystems they depend on.

Why Sea Turtles Have Three Eyelids (Not Three Eyes) Short Answer: No, but they do have a 3rd eyelid. There’s a lot of buzz about whether sea turtles have three eyes. Some even say they have a mysterious “third eye.” Let’s set the record straight: sea turtles do not have three eyes — but they […]