Swimming with Sea Turtles: Our Favorite Moments in Maui 🐢🌺

One of the most unforgettable highlights from our recent Maui vacation was spending time with Hawaii’s beloved sea turtles. From sunbathing on remote beaches to swimming alongside them in crystal-clear waters, these gentle creatures made our trip magical. If you’re planning a visit, here are three beaches you won’t want to miss:

1. Kaulahao Beach - lounging & basking

Nestled just outside the colorful surf town of Paia, Kaulahao Beach was hands-down my favorite turtle-spotting location. We were among the only people on the beach, which made the experience feel intimate and special. We watched turtles swim in from the ocean and bask lazily on the sand. We spent hours lounging and admiring them! (***for their safety, stay at least 10 feet back!).

📸 Travel Tip: I got amazing close-up videos using the 3x lens on my iPhone — no need for fancy equipment! The beach is rocky and the water was a bit too choppy for swimming, but it’s perfect for a peaceful wildlife encounter.

2. Ho’okipa Beach – Surf & Turtle Paradise

Just an 8-minute drive from Kaulahao, Ho’okipa Beach is where surfers and turtles share the waves. If you’re hoping to catch turtles in action and watch some epic surfing, this is the place to go. Dozens of turtles can often be seen lounging on the far right side of the beach or swimming effortlessly through the breaks.

3. Kapalua Beach – Snorkeling with Turtles in a Coral Wonderland

For an unforgettable underwater adventure, Kapalua Beach is a dream come true. I’ve been blessed to snorkel in some pretty amazing places all over the world, but this one might just top my list. The coral was vibrant, there were so many types of fish around every turn, and we got to swim with sea turtles! Watching them from up close (reminder to stay at least 10 feet away) was a dream!

There is a stand on the sand that sells floaties, snorkel gear, sunscreen, and cold beverages if you need them!

🐠 Tip: Arrive early for the best visibility and fewer crowds. Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen!

Each of these beaches offers a different kind of turtle experience — from quiet observation to scenic snorkeling — and all are worth a visit 🐢🌺