In the Company of Honu: Meeting Hawaiʻi's Green Sea Turtles
Revered in Hawaiian culture and protected by law, the green sea turtle is one of the islands' most beloved — and most misunderstood — residents.
Few encounters delight visitors more than a green sea turtle, or honu, gliding past on a reef or hauling out to bask on warm sand. In Hawaiian tradition the honu is an ʻaumakua, a family guardian, and today it is protected by law — which makes knowing how to share its space essential.
Where to Find Them
Turtles frequent reefs and beaches across the islands, from Oʻahu's Laniākea — nicknamed Turtle Beach — to countless snorkeling spots where they graze on algae. Seeing them basking on shore is normal behavior, not a sign of distress, and part of how they rest and warm up.
Give Them Space
The single most important rule is distance: stay at least ten feet away, never touch or feed a turtle, and don't box one in on the beach or in the water. Volunteers often rope off basking turtles on busy beaches — respect the lines and let the honu rest.
The best turtle encounter is the one where the turtle barely notices you were there.
Good to Know
- Stay at least 10 feet away on land and in the water
- Never touch, feed or pour water on a turtle
- Basking on the beach is normal resting behavior
- Respect volunteer ropes at spots like Laniākea
Respect the ocean, read the conditions, and the reward is a day you will replay for years.
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