Honokohau Marina and Beach: Sea Turtles on the Big Island

Key Takeaways

• Honokohau Marina provides access to a beach that is a green sea turtle preservation area
• Turtles regularly come up onto the beach to rest, offering close viewing opportunities
• Maintain a respectful distance and never touch the turtles — it is both illegal and harmful
• This is a perfect spot to fill a few hours before heading to the airport
• Small restaurants in the marina area offer casual dining

A Hidden Gem Near the Airport

If you have a few hours to spare before your flight from Kona International Airport, Honokohau Marina offers an unexpectedly wonderful way to spend them. Through the marina, you can access a beach that is part of a state park and serves as a green sea turtle preservation area.

The Sea Turtles

Green sea turtles (honu in Hawaiian) regularly haul themselves out of the ocean onto this beach to rest and warm themselves in the sun. Seeing these ancient creatures up close — some with shells three feet across — is genuinely exciting, even for visitors who have seen plenty of wildlife. The turtles are surprisingly unbothered by human presence, as long as you maintain proper distance.

It is critical to keep your distance and never touch the turtles. Green sea turtles are protected under federal law, and disturbing them can result in significant fines. Stay at least 10 feet away, do not block their path to the ocean, and resist the urge to take a selfie right next to them.

The Beach and Marina

Beyond the turtles, the beach itself is a pleasant place to relax. The dark volcanic sand contrasts beautifully with the turquoise water, and the setting is less crowded than the resort beaches further up the coast. The marina has several small, casual restaurants where you can grab a meal while enjoying the harbor atmosphere.

The area is also part of Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, which preserves ancient Hawaiian fishponds, petroglyphs, and settlement sites along the coast.

Planning Your Big Island or Kauai Trip

When planning a visit to Hawaii, consider that each island has its own distinct character and attractions. The Big Island offers volcanic landscapes, coffee plantations, and diverse climate zones ranging from tropical rainforest to snow-capped peaks. Kauai, the oldest of the major islands, features dramatic cliff formations, lush valleys, and a more relaxed pace than the busier islands of Oahu and Maui.

Rental cars are essential on both islands since public transportation is limited. Book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons (December through March and June through August). The best weather for outdoor activities is generally in the morning, as afternoon clouds and rain are common, particularly on the windward (eastern) sides of both islands.

Respect the land and culture during your visit. Stay on marked trails, do not disturb wildlife, and learn basic Hawaiian words and customs. The aloha spirit is real, and visitors who show respect for the islands receive warm hospitality in return.

Planning Your Big Island or Kauai Trip

When planning a visit to Hawaii, consider that each island has its own distinct character and attractions. The Big Island offers volcanic landscapes, coffee plantations, and diverse climate zones ranging from tropical rainforest to snow-capped peaks. Kauai, the oldest of the major islands, features dramatic cliff formations, lush valleys, and a more relaxed pace than the busier islands of Oahu and Maui.

Rental cars are essential on both islands since public transportation is limited. Book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons (December through March and June through August). The best weather for outdoor activities is generally in the morning, as afternoon clouds and rain are common, particularly on the windward (eastern) sides of both islands.

Respect the land and culture during your visit. Stay on marked trails, do not disturb wildlife, and learn basic Hawaiian words and customs. The aloha spirit is real, and visitors who show respect for the islands receive warm hospitality in return. For more travel content, check out our guide to Dubrovnik, Croatia or read about internet access tips when traveling to Europe.