If you want to see Hawaiian green sea turtles up close, this is your best bet on Oahu. These gentle giants haul themselves onto the sand almost every afternoon to bask in the sun. Volunteers are usually on-site to make sure people keep a respectful distance (10 feet minimum — it's the law).
The beach itself is a narrow strip of sand along Kamehameha Highway on the North Shore, and the swimming isn't great due to rocks and currents. Come here for the turtles, not the swimming. Don't be surprised if you don't spot any on your visit — it's nature, not a zoo — but most people get lucky, especially in the afternoon.
💡 Insider Tip
Afternoon is still the best time to spot turtles hauled out on the sand. There's no parking lot — pull off on the mauka (mountain) side of the highway and walk across carefully. Never touch or approach a resting turtle.
Open 24 hours
Free
Roadside pulloff (limited)
Afternoon for turtle sightings
