New York (Washington Insider Magazine) – Turtles are a fantastic animal to have as a part of your wildlife experience. They are slow-moving, gentle creatures that can easily be scared off by humans. That’s why it’s important to be careful when spotting them. If you love these majestic creatures and want to find sea turtles in Maui, then you are at the right place.
7 Best Places To See Turtles In Maui
If you’re a turtle lover, you’ll want to head to Maui! The island is known for its turtles and there are many great places to see them. We have gathered information about the 7 best places in Maui where you can see turtles in their natural habitat.
1. Puakaua Pond
This is a great place to see wild turtles nesting. Puakaua Pond is a great place to spot turtles! Whether you’re a keen wildlife enthusiast or just out for a casual stroll, this area has plenty to offer. During the day, you’ll find a variety of different species of turtles enjoying the warm sun all along the lake’s edge.
So bring some binoculars and take your time searching for them! If you’re lucky, you may even catch sight of some swimming in the clear blue water. Be sure to take snaps too – they make beautiful keepsakes. Whichever way you decide to spend your time here, it’s sure to be an enjoyable visit; so head on down and get spotting!
2. Lahaina Bay
Lahaina Bay is a great place to see turtles swimming and sunbathing. If you’re looking for a relaxed nature experience in Maui, head to Lahaina Bay. Here you’ll find crystal-clear waters that are home to green sea turtles. These iconic creatures tend to swim at the surface or just beneath it. If you bring your snorkeling gear or rent from one of the local outlets, you’ll be able to observe them up close.
The best time of day to spot the Hawaiian green sea turtles is at dawn and dusk when they tend to frequent nearshore areas like the public beach and wharf. From May through November Humpback whales travel off the coast making their way toward winter migration grounds. If luck is on your side, you can catch a glimpse of these impressive creatures while scanning the horizon with binoculars!
3. Haiku Beach
Haiku Beach on Maui’s North Shore is popular with beachgoers and turtle enthusiasts alike. Wide stretches of white sand beaches make an ideal habitat for the Green Sea Turtle or Honu in Hawaiian. Whether you’re wanting to soak up some sun or observe these amazing creatures in their natural environment, this stunning beachfront is sure to please.
With plenty of reef-protected shorelines, sea turtles often come right up onto the sand looking for a comfy spot to rest. Keep your eyes peeled – they may appear at any time! Be sure to look but don’t touch. Keep your distance and take pictures instead, so you can share the experience with friends and family back home.
4. Honokohau Valley
Honokohau Valley is a great place to spot turtles in Maui! It’s located near Kona Airport, so it’s easy to get to. The valley has a unique landscape of volcanic black sand beaches, lush tropical foliage, and clear turquoise waters that offer perfect conditions for turtle spotting.
You can also explore plenty of rock pools and lava tube formations while you’re there. The best times for spotting turtles are early morning and late evening when they come out to bask in the sun or feed on the nearby coral reefs. Be sure to bring your binoculars along so you can get up close to these amazing creatures from a safe distance!
Honokohau Valley in Maui is full of majestic beauty, with its rolling hillsides outlined against the blue sky and tropical foliage hugging each ridge. This little slice of paradise is a popular spot for day hikes and weekend excursions, as well as a peaceful place to unwind and relax.
5. Turtle Bay Resort
Turtle Bay Resort in Maui is a fantastic place to spot some turtles in their natural habitate. The resort has made it easy to admire these gentle sea creatures. With special vantage points dotting the shoreline, the bay looks like a fairy-tale storybook. Several times a day, turtles will swim up to the edge of the shore and sunbathe on the rocks, providing perfect photo opportunities for visitors.
With crystal clear waters as far as the eye can see and unmatched natural beauty, Turtle Bay Resort is easy to fall in love with. Its eponymous residents don’t hurt either! With the slopes of the turtle bay resort. It is not hard to see why so many people come here for snorkel tours.
6. Wailuku River State Park
Wailuku River State Park in Maui, Hawaii is a great place to find turtles. During calm and sunny days, you can often see large green sea turtles clustered near the shoreline basking in the sun or searching for food. It’s a beautiful sight that captures the essence of Hawaii’s natural beauty.
This state park also provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and exploring the many coves and reefs that surround it. There are also various walking trails so you can take strolls and admire nature at its finest. Wailuku River State Park is worth a visit for any traveler looking for a casual yet adventurous experience in Maui.
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7. Hana Highway
If you’re looking for an excursion through Hawaii’s lush countryside, hop onto the famous Hana Highway in Maui. Winding along the eastern edge of the island and boasting some of the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring views on Earth. It is a drive most travelers should take at least once in their lifetime.
Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for one of its biggest attractions – hawksbill sea turtles! Though they may be hard to spot, with a bit of luck you might encounter these majestic animals. They are often sunning themselves or paddling out in the nearby waters. Be sure to respect them from afar and don’t disturb them!
