Honu, the Hawaiian green sea turtle

Honu are the sea turtles you'll see snorkeling and resting on beaches. Hawaiʻi is one of only four places in the world where green turtles haul out on land to rest. They're protected by law: stay at least 10 feet away, never touch or feed them, and report injured turtles to 888-256-9840.

• Protected under the Endangered Species Act (the Hawaiʻi population is listed as threatened).
• Basking: turtles come ashore to rest, warm up and avoid tiger sharks. A resting turtle can look dead; look for slow breathing.
• Distance: at least 10 feet, on land and in the water.
• Most nest in the remote Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, then return to the main islands to feed on seaweed.
• Good places to see them from a respectful distance: Laniākea on Oʻahu's North Shore, Hoʻokipa on Maui and Punaluʻu black sand beach on Hawaiʻi Island.
• Injured or tangled turtle: NOAA Marine Wildlife Hotline 888-256-9840.

Sources: NOAA Fisheries: Sea turtles in the Pacific Islands, FAQ · DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources: Green sea turtle

Last checked Oct. 29, 2026. Hours, fees and rules can change, so confirm with the official source before you go.