Swim with Sea Turtles for Free at Honokeana Bay in Maui

Would you believe me if I told you that you don’t have to spend a dime to swim with Green Sea turtles in Hawaii’s island of Maui? Whether you would or wouldn’t, it’s true. As long as you have some some snorkel gear (and it doesn’t have to be fancy), then you can get this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity under your belt. This was one our top favorite memories form our Hawaii trip. Keep reading to find out how to swim with turtles for free!

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Honokeana Bay — Where it’s Located and its Cultural Importance

Honokeana Bay is located on the western side of the island of Maui. The bay is a natural place where Hawaiian sea turtles gather. It’s about a 15 minute drive north from historical Lahaina, which is a popular spot for tourists to stay. There isn’t direct public access to Honokeana Bay, so the only way it can be entered is through Napili Bay. Luckily, Napili Bay is a popular beach on Maui’s west coast so getting there isn’t difficult.

In Hawaiian, the word for sea turtle is “Honu.” There are so many turtles in Honokeana Bay that Hawaiians named the bay after turtles — hence the “Hono” in Honokeana. Culturally, Hawaiians revere the Honu. They are considered sacred and are associated with bringing good luck, protection, and longevity. This should go without saying, but please remember this as you swim with the turtles. Do not touch them under any circumstances. Better yet, make sure to stand 10 feet away from them.

How to Get to Honokeana Bay

1. Put “Napili Surf Beach Resort” as the destination in your GPS/uber/taxi.

2. There is public street parking available on Napili Place where the resort is located. If that’s full, try the next street over, called Hui Drive. Generally, the street parking is public so keep driving around until you find a spot. Pay attention to the nearby signage to make sure you’re not parking in reserved parking.

3. After you park, walk towards Napili Beach (remember that all beaches in Hawaii are public!). Once you’re facing the beach, walk to the left and go over the stones. You’ll then see Honokeana Bay. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see people snorkeling!

Know Before You Go

• This free, self-guided activity requires some equipment, of course. Goggles are necessary so that you can see the turtles underwater. A snorkel isn’t necessary if you plan on holding your breath, but it is convenient so that you can keep your view underwater.

  • Our Airbnb offered free snorkel gear for guests to borrow. If you don’t have snorkel gear, you can rent some at one of the many snorkeling rental business in the area.

• Wearing swimshoes or some other form of slip-resistant shoe while walking over the rocks would be helpful.

• If you wear sunscreen, be sure that it’s the kind that doesn’t harm the reefs.

• Remember not to touch the turtles or the reefs.

• There are a few different points where you can launch yourself in the water. We found the most accessible area to be close to where you would enter the bay from the Napili side. You will most likely see other snorkelers using this spot. If you’re unsure how to enter, observe other snorkelers or ask them for help.

  • Because of this, this isn’t a suitable swim for inexperienced swimmers. I saw lots of children in the water during my visit, but again, only you know your child’s swimming competency.

Would you do swim with sea turtles for free at Honokeana Bay? If you have any questions while you plan, drop them below!

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