Here Are The 7 Best Places To Swim With Turtles On Oahu

UPDATED MAR 2020. One of the most asked questions I have gotten lately is ‘where can I swim with turtles on Oahu’. To be honest, the simple answer is everywhere. I swim with turtles all the time and at almost every area of the island. It’s just been a matter of whether they were cruising around at the same time that I was swimming. I know that’s not really helpful, so I prepared a guide to some of the turtle hotspots where you’re more likely to see them.

Here Are The 7 Best Places To Swim With Turtles On Oahu

What to do when you swim with turtles on Oahu

There is a certain code to adhere to when you are lucky enough to see a turtle.

The golden principle is to give them space and don’t cause them any stress, whether they are resting on the beach or swimming in the water.

Don’t block their path or touch them – this is classed as harassment and is actually a criminal offense.

Quite often, if you give them enough space, they will cruise around giving you plenty of time for a photo. Sometimes they may even be curious about you. It is when you chase or harass them that they will just dart off and leave you.

It is very natural to get excited when you first see one, so at that moment it is important to remember this golden rule of turtle etiquette.

1. Sharks Cove

Don’t be scared by the name, Sharks Cove is a great place to snorkel and swim with turtles. It is pretty much off-limits in winter but is stunning in the summer months.

Aside from a plethora of fish and other sea creatures, you are likely to swim with turtles and may even find yourself with many of them around you.

Extra tip: It’s right next to Three Tables which is another great snorkeling spot so it’s a good idea to combine the two.

More information about Sharks Cove: A Guide To Snorkeling In Sharks Cove On Oahu, Hawaii

2. Papa‘Iloa Beach

Laniakea Beach is one of the most popular spots on the island to see turtles because they can often be found resting on the beach.

It gets quite crowded though, so I recommend driving down the road and parking at the end of Papailoa Road. Walk the beach access path between the houses. This beach is another good spot to see turtles, though it is far less crowded.

Extra tip: You wouldn’t be able to snorkel here in winter because of the rough surf conditions, though you might see one in the water or on the beach.

3. Electric Beach

Located on the west side of Oahu, Electric Beach is a perfect snorkeling spot during summer.

I think I see at least one turtle here every time I go. In Summer, the water is calm, clear, and beautiful shades of blue which helps you to see the turtle in its entirely (and get great pictures).

This is an area that requires more skill to swim in so if you’re a beginner swimmer or not very confident in the ocean, this might not be the best spot for you.

Extra tip: Look over the reef section and near the pipes for turtles – definitely read my full review before going.

More on Electric Beach: A Guide To Snorkeling At Electric Beach On Oahu, Hawaii

4. Haleiwa on the North Shore

Go to pretty much any beach in Haleiwa and you will probably see some turtles. I think I see them every single time I am in the area.

Haleiwa beach park is a great place to start.

This is another spot on the North Shore, so the best time to visit is during summer.

Though if you are here in winter you may still see them sleeping on the sand.

5. Waimea Bay

During summer, Waimea Bay has crystal clear water that makes turtle spotting very easy.

A good spot to look is behind the big jump rock. There is a small area there which is a great spot for swimming with them.

I haven’t seen as many turtles here compared to other spots on the list, but I have certainly seen them and even dolphins here.

Extra tip: There’s a big rock you can jump off if you want to test yourself and do some cliff jumping.

More information on Waimea Bay: A Guide To The Famous Waimea Bay On Oahu, Hawaii

6. Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is another great location to swim with turtles on Oahu.

It’s also a great place for snorkelers of any level.

If you visit in winter when the other spots I have mentioned are off-limits then this is an alternative. There’s a lot of reef area and the bay is sheltered making it a good spot to see turtles.

You can also see lots of fish and other sea life.

Extra tip: This is a popular tourist spot and can be crowded. The bay is large so once you start snorkeling it doesn’t feel as crowded.

More on Hanauma Bay: A Guide To Snorkeling At Hanauma Bay On Oahu, Hawaii

7. Kaupo Bay

This is another good option if you are visiting in winter when the north shore and the west side are off-limits.

Even when I have just been taking a dip and not necessarily snorkeling, I’ve seen turtles here.

Usually, they are in the shallow, swimming around and eating because there are a lot of rocks to create a sheltered feeding environment for them.

Extra tip: This is a good option if you’re not a strong swimmer because there are a lot of shallower pools. You can even just sit in the shallow water and look for turtles.

I hope this guide has been able to help you plan your own adventures.

Check out my full reviews for more information on each spot and remember to keep your eyes peeled no matter where you go.

You never know when a turtle will pop up!

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