Located in beautiful Maui, Turtle Town is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the incredible natural beauty of Hawaii. Visually striking and an adventure waiting to be had, it’s also just a short distance from Hale Pau Hana. Here’s everything you need to know to discover this “must-see” destination.

What Is Turtle Town?

Turtle Town is one of Maui’s most picturesque coves, nestled along the island’s southern coast. This beautiful, protected marine sanctuary is known for its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and an amazing abundance of marine life, including Hawaii’s iconic green sea turtles. Where else in the world can you swim alongside green sea turtles and immerse yourself in what feels like an underwater fantasy world?

With such a tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, Turtle Town has become the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and connect with nature while staying at Hale Pau Hana.

Where Is Turtle Town Maui Located?

Turtle Town is located about a 10-15 minute drive from The Hale Pau Hana. It’s situated on Maui’s southern coastline, nestled in the picturesque area between Kihei and Makena.

Best Times to Visit

There is never a bad time to visit Turtle Town, and it’s accessible all year round. Simply taking in the scenery and snorkeling through the reefs is an incredible experience on its own. However, if it’s the green sea turtles that have captured your attention, there are certain times that are better to visit than others.

The summer months are considered “sea turtle season,” meaning this is the time of year they will be most abundant in the water. There is always a chance of seeing the sea turtles any time of year, but their presence is almost surreal during the summer months. You’ll also want to plan your trip in the morning or earlier in the day, when the waters are typically calm and the Maui sun is shining bright. Storms and choppy waters can make snorkeling challenging or even dangerous, so check the weather forecast when planning your trip. Also, note that weekends are a more popular time to visit. If you’re looking for a more secluded visit to Turtle Town, opt to go during the week.

Snorkeling Tips

Snorkeling is one of the main reasons people travel to Turtle Town, and with good reason. In addition to giant green sea turtles, snorkelers will find a beautiful array of marine life, from tropical fish to colorful coral. Whether you’re a novice snorkeler or an expert, there are a few best snorkeling practices to keep in mind during your visit to Turtle Town.

• Only snorkel in designated areas.
• Snorkel with a friend, guide, or group.
• Wear sunscreen to protect your skin, but make sure it is reef-safe to protect the delicate ecosystem.
• Always use appropriate safety and snorkeling gear. These may be provided when on a guided tour, but it’s always smart to double-check.
• Respect marine life, including the green sea turtles, which are protected under the NOAA’s Endangered Species Act. It is illegal to harass or harm the turtles.

Guided Tours and Excursions

Anyone is welcome to visit Turtle Town on their own, but going along on a guided tour or excursion makes the experience more fun and stress-free since the planning is all done for you. There are several tours that can take you from Hale Pau Hana to beautiful, serene Turtle Town. Others will meet you there, Turtle Town Maui map in hand, and guide you on a Turtle Town adventure.

• Pride of Maui is a top choice for guided snorkeling tours to Turtle Town with a luxury feel. They operate two large, max-powered catamarans that deliver snorkelers of all skill levels to the prime location for meeting Hawaii’s green sea turtles.
• Trilogy offers snorkeling tours with a respected eco-friendly approach. The snorkeling tour takes visitors to Turtle Town beach, and you’ll enjoy many other beautiful sights as you travel along the Maui coast.
• Maui Snorkel Tours offers one of the most popular and loved snorkeling tours of Turtle Town. Enjoy a private tour, with all equipment included. This is a great tour for all skill levels, and it’s family-friendly. Everyone, no matter their age or ability, can enjoy snorkeling with the turtles.

Other Nearby Attractions

There’s no shortage of beauty and adventure between Hale Pau Hana and Turtle Town. Some of our favorites are sunrise at Haleakala, whale watching, horseback riding, and helicopter tours for a breathtaking aerial view. Our staff at Hale Pau Hana can provide recommendations for your Maui adventures. If you’re looking to add more adventure and beautiful sightseeing to your day of visiting the gorgeous waters of Turtle Town, Maui offers some of the most beautiful forests, parks, and hiking trails.

• West Maui Forest Reserve
• ‘Āhihi-Kīna‘u Natural Reserve
• Hoapili Trail
• Makena State Park
• Wailea Beach Path

For guided hiking tours, Epic Maui Hikes is a trusted adventure guide in Maui. There are also lots of great places to satisfy a hungry appetite after snorkeling or visiting Turtle Town Maui. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Nalu’s South Shore Grill
• Coconuts Fish Cafe
• Kihei Caffe
• Da Kitchen
• Chef’s Table at Ka’ana Kitchen

Plan Your Visit to Turtle Town Today

Turtle Town is a pure treasure of Maui and an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Stunning beauty, activities to enjoy, and the incredible marine life make this a “must” during your stay at Hale Pau Hana. When you’re ready to discover the magic of Turtle Town for yourself, there’s no better place to call your home away from home than Hale Pau Hana. We invite you to make your reservations today, or contact us directly for information on our luxurious accommodations.