Snorkel with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles at Turtle Canyon — Waikiki Excursion
Hop aboard from Kewalo Basin for a two-hour snorkel to Turtle Canyon and swim alongside Hawaiian green sea turtles. This guided tour includes gear, safety instruction, snacks and a $1-per-ticket ocean stewardship contribution.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early and plan parking
Dock parking fills on weekends; arrive 20–30 minutes early or use a taxi/Rideshare to avoid the $5 lot fee and slow searches.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen
Apply reef‑safe sunscreen before boarding to protect coral and comply with best-practice conservation guidelines.
Prepare for motion
If you’re prone to sea sickness, take medication the night before or before arrival—there’s no onboard pharmacy.
Give turtles space
State law and tour rules require you not to touch or chase honu; stay horizontal and let them approach if curious.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Watch the ‘turtle cleaning station’ micro-communities where wrasses and small fish tend to shells
- •On calmer days, scan seaward for spinner dolphins that sometimes ride bow waves en route to the reef
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- •Parrotfish and other colorful reef fish
Conservation Note
Operators encourage no-touch viewing, use of reef-safe sunscreen, and donate $1 per ticket to the Hawaii Ocean Stewardship Fund to support local marine protection.
The reef and honu are woven into Oʻahu’s coastal life; Kewalo Basin evolved from a commercial harbor into a recreational gateway for ocean stewardship and tours.
What to Bring
Well-fitting snorkel maskEssential
A snug mask prevents leaks and improves visibility when observing turtles and reef life.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the coral ecosystem from harmful chemicals.
Light towel and quick-dry shirt
For post-snorkel comfort and sun protection while on deck.
Motion-sickness medication
Useful if you are not accustomed to ocean swell; take before arrival for best effect.
Common Questions
Are the turtles guaranteed?
Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, but Turtle Canyon is a reliable spot where guides regularly encounter Hawaiian green sea turtles and cleaning stations.
What should children bring or know?
Children must be at least 3 years old; bring a life vest if requested and ensure they have basic swimming comfort—guides assist in the water.
Is snorkeling experience required?
No advanced experience required—guides provide a briefing and assist in the water, but you should be comfortable with basic snorkeling and open-water conditions.
Can I touch or feed the turtles?
No. State law and tour policy prohibit touching or feeding turtles to protect their health and comply with conservation rules.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic swimming ability and comfortable treading and snorkeling in open water.
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