Photo Credit: Tim DelaVega
hawaii wave

**IMPORTANT PARK NOTICES**

Monitor weather reports before your park visit.

• [O‘AHU] UPDATE 12/13/25 — He’eia State Park: Park is CLOSED due to hazardous conditions.

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[ALL ISLANDS] UPDATE – 12/12/25: Camping - Reservations for February 1, 2026 and beyond available at https://explore.ehawaii.gov, please create an account on Explore Outdoor Hawaiʻi to make a camping reservation.

Where is the best place to look for sea turtles?

Posted on Oct 15, 2021

There are several sea turtles that are common in the Hawaiian Islands with the Green Sea Turtle being by far in the greatest abundance. Sea Turtles are an endangered species and as such are protected under the Endangered Species Act. See this website for more info:  www.nmfs.noaa.gov/prot_res/PR3/Turtles/turtles.html

Approaching or harassing any Sea Turtle is a violation of law. That being said there are many opportunities on all the main Hawaiian Islands for viewing turtles in the wild. Generally, areas that offer snorkeling or scuba diving also have the possibility of sighting sea turtles. I have personally seen turtles while snorkeling on all the islands so your best bet is to pick a snorkeling spot, put on your mask, snorkel and fins and get wet. Since turtles must come to the surface for air they can also be seen from shore or from a boat.

Please practice responsible wildlife viewing by keeping a safe distance and do not approach or chase them.

Good luck, and happy viewing!