If you’re an ocean enthusiast, there’s no better place to snorkel with the turtles than at Turtle Canyon. The name may give it away! Situated off the coast of Waikiki, Oahu, this snorkeling haven offers an opportunity to swim alongside green sea turtles as well as Hawksbill Turtles, in their natural habitat. Did you know that Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles can weigh up to 400 pounds?! Turtle Canyon is a must-visit destination for adventurers looking to experience the magic of Oahu’s marine life. Dive in and discover why Turtle Canyon is the perfect spot for your next snorkeling adventure!

What is Turtle Canyon?

Turtle Canyon is a unique reef that acts as a natural turtle cleaning station. Many sea turtles visit this renowned snorkeling site to get their shells cleaned by a few special species of fish that eat the algae growth on the turtle’s shell. This symbiotic relationship benefits the fish with a nice snack and the sea turtles with a clean shell at all their hard to reach places. This reef is also very special because of its strict no anchoring rules. Heavy metal sea anchors dragged across the seafloor have the chance of damaging fragile living corals. By instead securing that boats that visit this spot to underwater moorings, the reef remains a healthy home to a variety of marine life.  . Snorkelers come from around the world to explore this  underwater sanctuary famous for its large population of Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles,Hawksbill Turtles, and all the other creatures that call it home. Formed thousands of years ago from volcanic activity, the canyon features unique geological formations, including lava-formed rock fingers, coral heads, and sandy patches that create a vibrant marine habitat. Conveniently located minutes offshore Waikiki beach, the area’s crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life make it a top destination for snorkelers and divers alike.

Why Sea Turtles Visit the Surface

Sea turtles are cold blooded air breathing reptiles that use their surrounding environment to help regulate their body temperature. They can frequently be seen sunbathing at the surface or in shallow waters to help warm themselves. At Turtle Canyon these creatures spend most of their time just above the reef getting cleaned by fish or tucked into the reef taking a daytime nap but will frequently visit the surface to take a few breaths and soak up the sun. While resting at night Green sea Turtles can hold their breath for 4-7 hours, with no sun they have little reason to come up to the top of the water. When visiting the surface, snorkelers can admire these creatures up close, but it is important to maintain a distance of at least 10 feet so as not to disrupt their natural behaviors. Being protected for so long, turtles are very used to people and will move as they please even if a person is snorkeling in their way. This is why it is very important to take it upon yourself to maintain the minimum distance even if a turtle is slowly approaching you.

What is the best time to visit Turtle Canyon?

Sea turtles at Turtle Canyon can be seen throughout the day, but the best time to snorkel is during the morning hours between the hours of 7:00 am and 11:30 am. The sea is typically calmer in the mornings, providing clearer visibility for snorkeling and increasing the chances of spotting these majestic creatures as they float above the reef and come up for air. Early tours also tend to be less crowded, offering a more peaceful and personal experience. Being one of the best reefs on the island, Turtle Canyon attracts many people. Though it can get crowded throughout the day, it is well worth navigating the other visitors to experience this magical reef.

How far offshore is Turtle Canyon?

Turtle Canyon is situated just a few miles off the coast of Waikiki, making it easily accessible by boat. The proximity to the famous Waikiki Beach allows visitors to combine a snorkeling adventure with other activities in the vibrant neighborhood, which is known for its white sand beaches, high-rise hotels, and designer shops.

What month is best to see sea turtles?

The best time to visit Turtle Canyon for sea turtle sightings is during the summer months, from April to October. This period coincides with calmer seas and increased clarity, enhancing the snorkeling experience. Additionally, the summer months align with the sea turtle nesting season, dramatically increasing the chances of encountering these incredible creatures. However, sea turtles can be seen at Turtle Canyon year-round, making it a worthwhile destination no matter when you visit.

How deep is the Turtle Canyon?

Turtle Canyon ranges in depth from approximately 10 to 30 feet. While it may be considered a bit deep for some snorkelers, the clear waters offer excellent visibility, allowing snorkelers to see the sandy bottom of the canyon and the sea turtles swimming among them. The depth also creates a dynamic environment where turtles and other marine life can be observed in their natural habitat without feeling crowded.

Being Patient With Variable Ocean Conditions

When doing any activity in the ocean it is important to remember that there are many factors such as wind, waves, currents and tides that affect water conditions and it is impossible to predict exactly what it will be like. The hardest thing to predict is water clarity. While turtle canyon is clear most the year it occasionally can be affected by these factors resulting in reduced water clarity. This is outside of anyone’s control and it is best to make the most out of the conditions that day. Even when you cannot see the sea floor, the fish and turtles come to the surface so there’s always something to see. Hawaii is also a tropical environment that requires a lot of sun and rain to make it so beautiful. Periodic short lasting rain is very common in the islands and shouldn’t stop you from having a great day on the water.

How to snorkel Turtle Canyon?

Book a Boat Tour with Hawaii Ocean Charters

The most convenient way to snorkel at Turtle Canyon is by booking a boat tour with a reputable operator such as Hawaii Ocean Charters. These tours typically depart from Kewalo Basin Boat Harbor and offer a variety of amenities to enhance your experience. Swimming out from shore is not recommended as many people have been rescued attempting this due to the long swim and currents they experience on the way out.

Tips for a successful snorkeling trip:

• Hire a Tour Operator: Numerous tour operators in Oahu offer trips to Turtle Canyon, all departing from Kewalo Basin Boat Harbor. Consider taking a cab or Uber to the marina as parking can be limited and costs $2 per hour.
• What to Bring: Make sure to bring reef-friendly sunscreen to comply with Hawaii’s laws, water, light snacks, a towel, a coverup for the windy ride back, a dry bag for valuables, and a camera (a GoPro is ideal for underwater footage).
• Snorkeling Tips: Even beginners can snorkel at Turtle Canyon. Our tours provide all necessary equipment and guides who can assist with gear and point out marine life. To see more marine life, swim away from the group, relax, and float quietly.
• Avoid Seasickness: If you are prone to seasickness, consider taking preventative measures like Dramamine an hour before your trip. For other ways, learn more about preventing seasickness here!

For additional information about the tours, you can view the FAQ on our website.

Turtle Etiquette:

• Remember to respect the turtles by not touching or feeding them. These animals are protected under federal law, and touching them can cause stress and result in fines.
• Keep your distance: Stay 10 feet away from turtles even when they approach you
• Don’t swim directly above turtles or make sudden movements.
• Pay attention: Observe the turtle’s behavior and don’t disrupt it.

After snorkeling, relax on the boat with complimentary snacks and beverages while enjoying the scenic ride back to the harbor. Take in the views of the Waikiki’s coastline, including Diamond Head, and the chance to see spinner dolphins.

With frequent turtle sightings and the chance to explore one of Oahu’s most unique underwater environments, a snorkeling trip to Turtle Canyon is an unforgettable adventure. Book your tour with Hawaii Ocean Charters today and dive into the adventure of a lifetime!

Conclusion

Snorkeling at Turtle Canyon is a truly unforgettable experience, offering a chance to witness the grandeur of Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles up close. With their impressive size and graceful movements, these magnificent creatures, along with the vibrant marine life of Turtle Canyon, make for an adventure that you won’t want to miss.

Ready to dive into this incredible underwater world? Book your snorkeling cruise with Hawaii Ocean Charters today! Experience the thrill of swimming with sea turtles in their natural habitat, enjoy a scenic cruise along the Waikiki coast, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t wait—embark on your Turtle Canyon adventure now and discover the wonders of Oahu’s marine paradise! Book your snorkel cruise with Hawaii Ocean Charters here!