Turtle Canyon Waikiki Snorkel Adventure — Swim with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
Board a comfortable charter from Waikiki and drop into calm reef channels to watch Hawaiian green sea turtles graze and endemic reef fish dart among coral heads. This guided three-hour snorkel trip includes wetsuits and premier gear—ideal for swimmers seeking accessible marine wildlife encounters.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Apply a broad-spectrum, reef-safe sunscreen before boarding to protect coral and avoid slippery decks when reboarding.
Morning trips for calmer water
Choose an early departure—mornings typically deliver better visibility and gentler seas for snorkeling.
Respect wildlife distance
Stay at least 10 feet (3 meters) from turtles and avoid touching or chasing marine animals to comply with local regulations.
Secure seasickness remedies
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take preventative measures before departure—ginger, acupressure bands, or medication help keep you on deck.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Kaimana Beach (near Sans Souci) for quieter shore snorkeling before or after your charter
- •Ala Moana Beach Park reef to watch local surfers and spot reef life from the sand
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtles (honu)
- •Spinner dolphins
Conservation Note
Visitors are urged to use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid standing on or touching coral, and keep a respectful distance from turtles to minimize disturbance and help reef recovery.
The reefs off Waikiki formed from old lava flows and coral growth around Oahu’s south shore; many reef species here are endemic to Hawaii due to long ocean isolation.
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects your skin and Hawaii’s coral—apply before boarding.
Mask and snorkel (personal preferred)
Tighter-fitting personal gear can improve visibility and comfort despite onboard rentals.
Rash guard or thin wetsuit topEssential
Adds sun protection and warmth during cooler mornings or windier seasons.
Dry bag for phone/wallet
Keeps valuables safe and dry on a moving boat and during entry/exit.
Common Questions
Do I need to be an experienced snorkeler?
No — basic swimming ability and comfort in open water are required; guides provide a short safety briefing and stay nearby at reef sites.
Is gear provided?
Yes — premier snorkel gear and wetsuits are included, but bringing a personal mask can improve fit and comfort.
Can non-swimmers come on board?
Yes — non-swimmers are welcome as riders to enjoy the scenery from the boat but must remain seated during transit and follow crew instructions.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include Hawaiian green sea turtles, endemic reef fish, eels, rays, and seasonal sightings of dolphins and humpback whales in winter.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; must be able to swim and tread water for short periods and climb a ladder back onto the boat.
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