February 23rd, 2025

Top Tips for Spotting Turtles When Snorkelling

There is something truly magical about snorkelling and encountering sea turtles in their natural habitat. For many people, turtles are near the top of their bucket-list of animal encounters in the ocean. These graceful creatures seem to glide effortlessly through the water, offering an unforgettable experience for ocean lovers.

In the Cook Islands we are lucky enough to have two marine turtles: the Hawksbill Turtle (Onu Tara) and the Green Turtle (Onu Kai). Hawksbill turtles live and breed in the waters of the Cook Islands, while Green turtles live mainly around Vanuatu and Fiji, and come to breed in the Cooks Islands every three years.

Spotting turtles while snorkeling can take a bit of patience, preparation, and know-how. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, this guide will provide you with practical tips to increase your chances of spotting turtles during your next underwater adventure, which will hopefully be here in Rarotonga.

1. Choose the Right Location

The first step in spotting turtles is selecting a destination known for its sea turtle populations. Many tropical and subtropical regions host healthy turtle habitats, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky coastlines. Research your destination in advance to identify the best snorkeling spots for turtles. Popular locations include:

  • Cook Islands – Green and hawksbill turtles can be seen year round and the passages in the lagoon are the best places, but do require using a local guide for safety.
  • Hawaii – Green sea turtles are commonly found near Maui, Oahu, and the Big Island.
  • Caribbean – Locations like Barbados, the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands are havens for hawksbill and green turtles.
  • Southeast Asia – Destinations like the Gili Islands in Indonesia and the Similan Islands in Thailand offer excellent turtle-spotting opportunities.
  • Australia – The Great Barrier Reef and Ningaloo Reef are home to several turtle species, including loggerheads and leatherbacks which are the largest.

When planning your trip, ask local guides or marine conservation organizations for specific recommendations.

2. Snorkel During the Right Time

Timing can make a big difference when it comes to turtle sightings. Here are some tips for choosing the best time:

  • Morning Hours – Turtles are often more active in the early morning when the water is cooler and there is less human activity.
  • Tide Cycles – Check the local tide charts and plan your snorkel during high tide, as turtles often come closer to shore to feed on seagrass or algae.
  • Seasonal Patterns – Some destinations have peak turtle activity during specific months, so align your visit accordingly. For example, nesting and hatching seasons can be great times to observe turtles near shore.

3. Understand Turtle Behaviour

Learning about turtle behaviour can help you anticipate where and when to find them. Turtles frequent certain areas for feeding, resting, and breathing:

  • Feeding Areas – Turtles often feed on seagrass beds, algae-covered rocks, or coral reefs. Look for shallow areas with abundant vegetation.
  • Resting Spots – Turtles sometimes rest under ledges or in small caves. Keep an eye out for these sheltered spots while exploring reefs.
  • Surfacing for Air – Turtles need to surface periodically to breathe. Watch for their heads breaking the surface, especially in calmer waters.

By observing these patterns, you can improve your chances of spotting turtles.

4. Equip Yourself Properly

Having the right snorkelling gear can enhance your experience and make it easier to spot turtles:

  • Snorkel Mask – A high-quality, well-fitted mask ensures clear vision underwater. If you own a quality snorkel that fits perfectly it can be a good idea to take it on holiday with you.
  • Fins – Comfortable fins help you swim efficiently, conserving energy for longer snorkelling sessions.
  • Underwater Camera – While optional, a camera allows you to capture memorable moments. Make sure it has a wide field of view to photograph or video turtles without disturbing them.
  • Sea Scooter – Sea scooters are hand held devices that propel you through the water without needing to kick, which means you save energy and cover more water quicker when looking for turtles.

Additionally, wear a rash guard or wetsuit to protect yourself from the sun and potential jellyfish stings or coral scratches.

5. Practice Proper Snorkelling Techniques

Turtles are sensitive creatures, and your approach can impact whether they stay or swim away. Use these snorkelling techniques to improve your chances:

  • Move Slowly – Avoid sudden movements or splashing, as this can scare turtles.
  • Stay Calm and Quiet – Minimize noise and maintain a relaxed calm motion in the water to avoid startling marine life.
  • Maintain a Safe Distance – Keep at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from turtles to ensure their comfort and safety. Never attempt to touch or ride them.

By being a respectful snorkeler, you’re more likely to enjoy prolonged encounters with turtles and get those magical photos and videos you'll enjoy for years to come.

6. Spot the Signs of Turtle Presence

While snorkelling, look for visual cues that may indicate the presence of turtles, these can include:

  • Tracks on the Sand – In shallow areas, turtles may leave marks in the sand as they forage or rest.
  • Seagrass Movement – If you see patches of seagrass swaying unnaturally, it could be a feeding turtle.
  • Dark Shapes – Turtles often appear as dark silhouettes against the sandy ocean floor or coral reef. Keep your eyes peeled for their distinctive flipper movements.

Be Patient and Observant 

Spotting turtles can require patience, especially in larger snorkelling areas. Take your time to explore methodically and observe your surroundings. Pause periodically to scan the water and seabed for movement. Remember, turtles are wild animals and may not always be immediately visible. At some times of the year they may be more cautious and stay deeper or at a distance, whereas at other times if you are lucky you can have a close encounter with one of these gentle creatures.

8. Go with a Guide

There is nothing like local knowledge whether you are turtle spotting in Rarotonga or Barbados. If you’re unfamiliar with the area or want to maximize your chances, consider joining a guided snorkeling tour. Local guides know the best spots and can provide valuable insights into turtle behaviour. Additionally, they often prioritize eco-friendly practices, ensuring that your experience is both enjoyable and sustainable. As noted earlier, some of the best turtles sightings in Rarotonga are in the passages of the reef which can be dangerous in an outgoing tide, so a local guide is essential.

9. Respect Marine Life and the Environment

When snorkelling with turtles, it’s essential to prioritize their well-being and the health of their habitat:

  • Avoid Touching Coral – Coral reefs are delicate ecosystems, and touching or stepping on them can cause damage.
  • Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Choose sunscreens without harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, to prevent harming marine life. Wearing a rash shirt is a good sunsmart options that reduces the need for sun creams.
  • Don’t Feed Wildlife – Feeding turtles or fish disrupts their natural diet and behaviour, and can create a dependency or unnatural habits that are not good for them.

By following these guidelines, you’ll help preserve the marine environment for future generations.

10. Stay Positive

Turtles are elusive creatures and the thrill of seeing them is directly related to the fact that they are hard to find and you may have to work for it. Remember that snorkelling is about more than just spotting turtles. Even if you don’t see one on your first try, the underwater world offers a treasure trove of beauty. Enjoy the colourful fish, vibrant coral, and the tranquillity of being immersed in nature. Coral reefs like Muri Lagoon have a unique sound of their own when you are underwater, take the time to pause and listen. With patience and persistence, your turtle encounter will happen when the timing is right.

Snorkelling with sea turtles is a breath-taking experience that requires a mix of preparation, respect, and patience. By choosing the right location, understanding turtle behaviour, and practicing good snorkelling techniques, you can increase your chances of spotting these magnificent creatures. Remember to respect their space and protect the environment, ensuring that future snorkelers can also enjoy this incredible opportunity. If you're coming to the Cook Islands our national tourism website lists turtle tour guides, and we can cover you for all your Rarotonga car and scooter rental needs.

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