Where can I snorkel with turtles in Oahu?

Short Answer: Laniakea Beach has beached sea turtles on the North Shore of Oahu Overview of Turtle Snorkeling Spots in Oahu Oahu is home to some of the best turtle snorkeling locations in Hawaii. You can find turtles lounging on sandy beaches or gliding gracefully through vibrant coral reefs. The top spots include Hanauma Bay, Turtle Canyon, and a Dolphin Watch with a Turtle Swim tour. These locations are all within a short drive or boat ride from Waikiki, making it easy to dive into your turtle adventure. Here are the different ways you can see sea turtles on Oahu:

1. Swimming at a Random Beach
   • Simply head to any of Oahu’s beaches, and you might be lucky enough to spot a turtle while swimming or snorkeling. This is a spontaneous way to encounter turtles in their natural habitat.
2. Taking a Turtle Snorkeling Tour (Sea Tour)
   • Join a guided snorkeling tour, like those offered at Turtle Canyon or Hanauma Bay, where you’re almost guaranteed to see turtles. These tours often include snorkeling gear, and the guides take you to spots known for turtle activity.
3. Turtle Watching Land Tour
   • Opt for a land-based turtle tour, such as those that visit Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach) on the North Shore. These tours typically include a guide who will help you spot turtles basking on the shore.
4. Visiting a Well-Known Turtle-Visited Beach
   • Head to popular turtle spots like Laniakea Beach or Hanauma Bay. These beaches are renowned for frequent turtle visits, making them excellent choices for a sure sighting.
5. Kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) Tours
   • Some companies offer kayak or SUP tours that take you to spots where turtles are often seen swimming close to the surface. This is a more active and adventurous way to see turtles.
6. Scuba Diving with Turtles
   • For certified divers, scuba diving offers a deeper encounter with turtles, allowing you to see them up close on the ocean floor at various dive sites around Oahu.
7. Visit a Turtle Rehabilitation Center
   • Visit places like Sea Life Park, where injured or sick turtles are rehabilitated before being released back into the wild. This is a more educational experience and helps support turtle conservation.
8. Boat Cruises with Turtle Spotting
   • Join a boat cruise, such as a dolphin or whale-watching tour, that includes turtle spotting. These cruises often take you to areas where turtles are frequently seen swimming near the surface.

Where Can I Snorkel with Turtles in Oahu? Oahu offers several prime locations for snorkeling with turtles. At Hanauma Bay, you’ll find turtles feeding on the rich coral reefs, while Turtle Canyon, just a short boat ride away from Waikiki, is known for its large turtle population. For a more immersive experience, the Dolphin Watch with Turtle Swim tour combines a scenic boat ride with ample opportunities to snorkel alongside these incredible creatures. Here are the top 10 beaches on Oahu for spotting sea turtles, along with their distances from Waikiki:

1. Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach) – 30 miles from Waikiki
   • Famous for its frequent turtle sightings on the sand.
2. Hanauma Bay – 10 miles from Waikiki
   • A protected marine reserve known for its clear waters and resident turtles.
3. Turtle Canyon – 3 miles from Waikiki
   • Accessible only by boat, this spot is a snorkeler’s favorite for swimming with turtles.
4. Kaena Point – 34 miles from Waikiki
   • A remote and rugged area where turtles are often seen in the surf.
5. Makaha Beach Park – 34 miles from Waikiki
   • Popular with locals, this beach is known for its calm waters and turtle sightings.
6. Waimea Bay – 32 miles from Waikiki
   • Known for its big waves in winter, but during the summer, it’s a calm spot for turtles.
7. Electric Beach (Kahe Point Beach Park) – 24 miles from Waikiki
   • Known for its warm waters, attracting turtles and other marine life.
8. Ala Moana Beach Park – 2 miles from Waikiki
   • A popular spot for locals, where turtles can occasionally be spotted.
9. Shark’s Cove – 33 miles from Waikiki
   • A popular snorkeling spot on the North Shore where turtles are often seen.
10. Kuilima Cove (Turtle Bay Resort) – 40 miles from Waikiki
• A quiet cove that’s perfect for snorkeling and often visited by turtles.



How Much Does It Cost to Swim with Turtles in Hawaii? The cost to swim with turtles in Hawaii varies depending on the location and type of tour. Entry to Hanauma Bay is around $25 per person, while Turtle Canyon snorkeling tours range from $75 to $150. The Dolphin Watch with Turtle Swim tour can cost between $120 and $200, depending on the package and duration. Which Beach in Oahu Has the Most Turtles? Laniakea Beach, also known as Turtle Beach, is famous for its abundance of sea turtles. Located on Oahu’s North Shore, about an hour’s drive from Waikiki, this beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to see turtles basking on the sand. It’s a perfect spot for turtle lovers and offers a unique chance to observe these creatures up close. Embark on your turtle adventure in Oahu and create unforgettable memories in the company of Hawaii’s beloved sea turtles!