A chance to lounge on the beautiful beaches is one of the many reasons people visit Maui. When you stay in a beachfront hotel, be mindful that you will be sharing the sandy oasis with the local wildlife. Your actions can affect the animals' wellbeing, so follow the tips discussed here to keep them out of danger during your tropical vacation. 

What Animals Are on Maui's Beaches?

There are different threatened species that call Maui home, including Hawaiian green sea turtles. It's not uncommon to see the turtles sunbathing on the beach; swimming in the shallow shoreline; nesting; and foraging for algae, limu, and invertebrates on the coral reef. 

If you go scuba diving, you might encounter manta rays swimming along Maui's shoreline, too. The large aquatic creatures are a harmless cousin to the stingray. There are approximately 1,500 Hawaiian monk seals still in existence. The endangered species move from offshore reefs and deepwater coral beds to beaches to rest, molt, breed, give birth (pupping), and nurse. 

What Should You Know About Sharing Beaches With Wildlife?

The Golden Rule of treating others how you want to be treated applies to your interactions with wildlife, too. If you are strolling on the beach at night, avoid using a flashlight or using the flash feature on your camera while snapping photos. The light could disturb nesting sea turtles. 

View the animals at a distance, as your presence could be threatening and force sea turtles who are in the midst of laying eggs to return to the ocean. Do not touch any eggs you see on the beach, as doing so could introduce harmful bacteria to the nest. 

Hawaiian monk seals come to shore to give birth and remain on land for seven weeks afterward to nurse. The mothers can become aggressive when they feel their pups are threatened, so do not approach the animals. Do not feed monk seals or leave debris on the beach, either, as it might encourage the animals to approach people for food in the future. This could lead to dangerous interactions. 

When you go snorkeling, be mindful of your surroundings. You could face costly fines and additional penalties for killing or capturing manta rays.

If you are looking for a prime location to see wildlife on Maui's beaches, book a stay at family-owned Napili Village Hotel in Lahaina, HI. Since 1967, the beachfront hotel has been providing a memorable home away from home on Maui's west side. Studios, one-bedroom hotel rooms, and vacation condo rentals are available. The units feature kitchens and air conditioners for convenience and comfort. The beachfront hotel is a two-minute walk from Napili Bay. Check out special offers online, and call (808) 669-6228 to speak to a representative.