skip to Main Content

Turtle Town Maui Snorkeling
Explore one of South Maui’s most beloved snorkel areas, known for calm clear water, coral reefs, tropical fish, and frequent Hawaiian green sea turtle sightings.

Turtle Town Maui Snorkeling

Explore one of South Maui’s most beloved snorkel areas, known for calm clear water, coral reefs, tropical fish, and frequent Hawaiian green sea turtle sightings.

What Is Turtle Town?

Turtle Town is the unofficial name for a scenic stretch of South Maui coastline near Maluaka Beach, Makena Landing, and the Makena area. Known for its lava rock formations, coral reefs, and incredible water clarity, this area has become one of Maui’s most popular snorkeling destinations.

The name “Turtle Town” comes from the frequent presence of Hawaiian green sea turtles, or honu, that are often seen feeding, resting, and swimming through the reef. While turtle sightings are common, all marine life is wild, and encounters can never be guaranteed.

Why Snorkel Turtle Town With Maui Magic?

Two Snorkel Destinations

Pair the world-famous Molokini Crater with a second Maui coastline snorkel stop.

Smaller Boat Experience

Maui Magic offers a more personal, adventure-focused snorkeling experience with fewer passengers on board.

Honu & Reef Life

Look for Hawaiian green sea turtles, tropical fish, coral formations, and other marine life.

Experienced Crew

Snorkel gear, flotation devices, instruction, meals, and drinks are all included on the Morning Adventure Snorkel.

Where Is Turtle Town Located?

Turtle Town is generally associated with the South Maui coastline around Maluaka Beach and Makena Landing in the Makena area. Because “Turtle Town” is an unofficial name, the exact snorkel location can vary depending on ocean conditions, visibility, and the captain’s decision.

Interesting Facts about Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles

  • The name “green sea turtle” comes not from the color of their shell, but from the color of their body fat, which comes from their diet.
  • Hawaii’s green sea turtles migrate up to 700 miles along the coastline of the Hawaiian Islands.
  • A nesting female will come ashore up to five times every 15 days to lay eggs.
  • Green sea turtles become sexually mature at around 25-35 years.
  • Young turtles head straight for the ocean after hatching.
  • Four of the seven existing species can be found in Hawaiian waters.
  • The lifespan for Hawaiian green sea turtles is estimated to be around 60-70 years.
  • These gentle giants can reach weights up to 700 pounds!

FAQS

Where is Turtle Town Maui?

Turtle Town is an unofficial name for a stretch of South Maui coastline commonly associated with Maluaka Beach, Makena Landing, and nearby Makena snorkel spots.

Can you see turtles at Turtle Town?

Hawaiian green sea turtles are commonly seen in the area, but they are wild animals, so sightings can never be guaranteed.

Does Maui Magic go to Turtle Town?

Maui Magic’s Morning Molokini & Turtle Town Snorkel includes Molokini Crater and a second Maui coastline snorkel destination, weather permitting.

Is Turtle Town good for beginners?

Turtle Town is known for calm, clear water in good conditions, but ocean conditions can change. The Maui Magic crew provides snorkel gear, flotation, and instruction.

Can I touch the turtles?

No. Sea turtles should never be touched, chased, fed, or disturbed. In Hawaii, NOAA recommends staying at least 10 feet away from sea turtles.

Back To Top