Maui, also known as the Valley Isle, is a Hawaiian paradise. It is a colorful snorkeling destination, especially around Molokini, and the place where dramatic volcanoes bear upward from the ground.
The beaches are inviting with soft sand and lapping water, while the rainforests call to those who want a Maui adventure.
Beneath the clear surface of the Pacific and along the sandy shore, another adventure awaits. Turtle Town is a must-see destination in Maui. It is famous for its gentle giants or green sea turtles. It is also a snorkeling destination, so you can see the turtles as they make their way across the beach and underwater.
A Snorkeling Haven
You can get to Turtle Town by sailing on a boat across the calm waters. It is located near Maluaka Beach. The reef area of Turtle Town is protected from strong winds thanks to Haleakala, which means the water is rarely rough.
Many visitors who snorkel at the Molokini Crater also explore Turtle Town underwater. The sea conditions are perfect for kayaking, too.
If you want to visit Turtle Town exclusively to view the turtles, you will be happy to know that other species are also sometimes spotted in the water here. These include Olive Ridley, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, and Leatherback turtles.
The green sea turtles rule the kingdom, however, as they glide through the reef. These stunning creatures’ shells can measure five feet in length, and their flippers propel them through the water as they look for food.
Green turtles are the only species of sea turtle with a herbivorous diet. If you spot them underwater, you may see them munching on seagrasses and algae.
A Habitat for Tropical Fish and Other Marine Creatures
If you want to snorkel or dive in an expanded area, you will see tropical fish swimming around, some of which are native to Hawaii. Turtle Town fish include yellow tang, surgeonfish, and the Moorish Idol. The butterflyfish will likely also appear while you are in the water, adding another pop of color to the ocean.
Moreover, you will likely spot more than a few Hawaiian cleaner wrasses. These fish are the cleaners of the sea world. They clean larger fish and green turtles by removing parasites and dead skin from their bodies.
While the green sea turtles are easy to see gliding through the water, you will have to look hard to find the devil scorpionfish amongst the coral. You may even see an octopus hiding in a crevice with only its tentacles reaching for food.
Colorful Eels and Manta Rays
The waters of Turtle Town are also home to moray eels. These creatures, with their colorful bodies, live in the reef. While they may seem intimidating, they are not dangerous to divers or snorkelers.
Moreover, you may even see a manta ray hanging out at a cleaning station, along with a couple of sea turtles. Wrasses and other fish set up these cleaning stations where they clean the bodies of the bigger sea creatures.
Turtle Town Must Stay Protected
While it is an incredible experience to see Turtle Town’s marine life up close, it is crucial to remember that this ecosystem thrives because the area is protected. If you decide to visit for snorkeling or diving, it is essential to practice responsible tourism so that this Maui jewel stays protected.
Firstly, only work with reputable tour operators. When you book your trip, search for companies that respect marine life and abide by sustainable practices.
While visiting Turtle Town, avoid crowding or harassing the turtles. If you do not give them enough space to move freely, you could be causing them stress.
Moreover, whenever you go in the water, only use reef-safe sunscreen. The best sunscreens are typically mineral-based. Chemical sunscreens will harm the delicate coral reefs.
Also, do not stand on or touch the coral. Any human touch is too heavy-handed for these marine invertebrates. Instead, admire them from a distance and be mindful of your gear so it doesn’t come into contact with the coral.
Lastly, do not litter in or out of the water. Litter is devastating to marine life and takes away from the natural beauty of Turtle Town.
This Maui paradise will be destroyed if pollution is unchecked and coral reefs start to degrade.
Maui Memories That Will Last a Lifetime
A visit to Turtle Town is a one-of-a-kind experience. It will allow you to see the diversity of Maui’s marine life first-hand. It will also instill a deeper appreciation for the balance of the world’s oceans and how they support life.
It is also a place where you will make memories that last forever.