Three species of sea turtles are native to the Hawaiian Islands: the Hawaiian green sea turtle, the Hawksbill, and the Leatherback. Even though they’re endangered, snorkeling in Hawaii may let you catch a glimpse of these amazing creatures.

A Guide to Hawaii's Native Sea Turtles

1. Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle

These sea turtles don't get their name from the color of their shells, which range from yellow to olive to black, but rather from the color of their fat. They have teardrop-shaped shells and large front flippers to swim with ease. When mature, they’re typically 200 to 400 pounds and three to five feet long. Called honu by locals, they’re protected as an endangered species—it's illegal to disturb, handle, injure, or hunt any sea turtle in Hawaii. Snorkelers often see honu feeding in the waters surrounding the islands, though the turtles swim up to 800 miles away to more remote areas to nest. They’re omnivores when young, but as adults, they’re vegetarians, usually eating algae, sea grass, and seaweed.

2. Hawksbill

Hawksbill turtles are known for their distinctive hooked beaks, which allows them to reach food in the crevices of coral reefs. They eat invertebrates, including anemones, shrimp, sponges, and squid. Though Hawksbill meat is poisonous to humans, these turtles are sometimes killed for their beautifully patterned shells. When mature, they’re about three feet in length and 150 to 200 pounds. People snorkeling near the main Hawaiian Islands can sometimes spot the endangered Hawksbill feeding in coastal reefs and rocky areas. These turtles predominately nest on Maui, Oahu, and the Big Island.

3. Leatherback

The largest turtle species in existence, the Leatherback can grow up to eight feet in length and weigh more than 2,000 pounds. While snorkeling, Leatherbacks are much rarer to see because their deep water habitat is up to 4,000 feet below the surface. Plus, the Leatherback doesn't feed nor nest in the area near Hawaii; they pass through as they migrate between their feeding grounds off the North American Pacific Coast to their nesting locations in Malaysia and other regions. Their diet consists primarily of jellyfish.

Try snorkeling and swimming with turtles on a Sea Maui trip. Based out of Lahaina, HI, since 2015, they also offer private charter boats that accommodate up to 48 guests, sailing excursions, sunset dinner cruises, and whale watching tours. Call (808) 732-6284 or visit their website to book your adventure.