Best Turtle Sighting Sites in Hawaii

The gentle and slow moving turtle is also a graceful and dignified animal. Turtle watching can offer hours of undiluted enjoyment, even for those who do not think of themselves as animal lovers or wildlife enthusiasts.  Observing them in their natural habitat is among the most popular of snorkeling activities in Hawaii. Despite weighing 400 pounds, these huge amphibians, known locally as the Honu, arestrong swimmers and can sneak up on you without being noticed. Do not fear, as these gentle and ancient mariners, willcause you no harm, as they are merely vetting their curiosity, as we are when we snorkel to observe them. 

Sea turtles are plentiful all along the shorelines of the Big Island of Hawaii, but as always, there are some places that are known to be among the best places to see them.

Kiholo Bay

Although not an easy place to reach, this bay, located in Kohala at the north of the Waikoloa Resort, is a great place to get up close and personal with the turtles. The lagoon, which is filled with brackish water, was previously an old fishpond. It runs along the shoreline and has a rocky beach which is great for snorkeling and is known for its calm surf. It is a great place to spend a day snorkeling and watching the exotic marine life of the islands.

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

The black sands of the Punalu'u Beach Resort offers a special background against which to watch the turtles. For those who are not interested in getting into the water, turtles can be seen pulling themselves out of the ocean to sun themselves on the sand.

Waialea Bay/Beach 69

“Beach 69” is a small beach located in Kohala and attracts less crowds than the more popular Hapuna. Along with turtles, there are a huge variety of reef fish to be seen in the crystal clear waters. You need to get there at the right time because when the tide is high, the beach can, at times, almost disappear.

Pu'uhonua O Honaunau

Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, which is situated 20 miles south of Kona, is a designated national historic park. Long ago, Hawaiians who had broken a local law (or Kapu) where able to get protection from the death penalty by seeking sanctuary here. There are many snorkeling sites on the western side of the Big Island, but this is reputed to be among the best. It is a great place to get into the water and swim alongside the turtles as well the dozens of fish species that live in these waters.

Kahalu'u Beach Park

Like Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, Kahalu’u is located near Kona. Here you will find a shallow lagoon that makes it an ideal place for rookies to enjoy the pleasures of snorkeling and to swim with a variety of colorful marine life,includingsea turtles.

Sea Turtles of Hawaii

There are five species of sea turtles in Hawaii. The most common are the Green Sea Turtles, the other four in order of their numbers being the Hawksbill, the Loggerheads, the Leatherbacks and the Olive Ridley. Among sea turtles the Green Sea Turtles have one peculiar behavior. Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, crawl ashore to bask in the warm sun. They normally swim ashore to isolated spots, located mostly on the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Adult Greens as the Green Sea Turtles are normally called are herbivorous but the young hatchlings have been observed to be omnivorous. The adult diet comprises of sea-grass and algae, while the hatchlings enthusiastically feed on cuttlefish, jelly fish, other invertebrates and seaweed. The Green Sea Turtle is called so because of the color of the body fat. 

When you snorkel or dive, you will chance upon the Green Sea Turtles, most often. Charter boats with experienced crews, ply every day, to all the spots where the turtles, nest, feed, bask or can be found.

Snorkeling For Beginners Part 2

Relax and Take It Easy

One of the biggest mistakes that novice snorkelers make is to overdo things. It’s easy to get excited by the wonders that you see for the first time. The adrenalin rush can cause you to overextend yourself and swim more and faster than your body can handle. This applies to even strong swimmers who are snorkeling for the first time. Swim slowly and stay as relaxed as possible. This will allow your body to know when it is getting tired so you can return to the surface and rest for a while, before entering the water again. Another factor to keep in mind, is that a snorkel does, to some extent, limit your breathing, so excess physical activity can leave you feeling out of breath. As you become familiar with the underwater environment and your body gets used to snorkeling, you will learn to pace yourself and increase your enjoyment.

Understand the Ocean

The ocean is alive. It has moods, its appearance can be deceptive and it has unseen forces that can affect you. Understanding how to judge snorkeling conditions, the weather and how to read the currents will all contribute to your safety and enjoyment of the experience. These are skills that you will develop over time. In the early stages of your snorkeling life, it is important to venture into the water only in the company of a trained professional who will be able to teach you the essentials and keep you safe while you learn them. A snorkeling instructor can at times appear to be a killjoy who takes you out of the water when you are having fun. But he is doing it for a reason that may not be apparent to you and it is important that you listen to him.

Find the Right Location

The world is full of wonderful snorkeling locations. Some can be difficult and even dangerous for the rookie. Always start out at a safe location where the conditions are going to be those that you can handle with ease. The waters off Big Island of Hawaii are an ideal place to start. The ocean conditions are ideal for beginners. There are great snorkeling spots where you can find coral reefs and marine life that are unique to this part of the world. Charter boats with experienced crews are available and they will take care of you, charter you to the best spots, look after your safety and ensure that you are comfortable and well fed during the trip. A bad experience can put you off snorkeling but a good one can open up a world of underwater fun and adventure that will be an unforgettable adventure.

Enjoy Yourself

Snorkeling is not a race. Or a way to show off physical prowess or swimming skills. It is an experience to be savored and enjoyed. When snorkeling, you do not have to prove anything to anyone. Do only what you are comfortable with. If someone can swim faster than you or go deeper, that’s fine. There will be others who cannot do, what you do. Snorkeling is for fun, so enjoy it without worrying about the abilities of others.

Treat the Underwater World With Respect

You are a visitor. And like all guests, you need to mind your manners. Show courtesy and consideration for others. Do not touch the corals or try to touch or frighten the fish or turtles you come across. Leave the world below the surface as pristine as you found it so that other can enjoy it too.

Come enjoy Hawaii, taste the pleasures of the ocean, dance by the firelight and to the rhythm of out music, make merry and spend carefree days here.

Snorkeling For Beginners Part 1

The underwater world of our planet holds wonders, mysteries and beauty that can never be experienced on land. You may enjoy being in the water and participating in all kinds of water sports. But if you have not seen what lies beneath the surface, you are missing out on an incomparable experience. Exploring the oceans does not require scuba diving certification or investing in expensive diving equipment. Snorkeling will allow you to explore the underwater world in a safe manner that is open to almost anyone. All that is required is the ability to swim, an understanding of the basics of snorkeling and a desire for experiences that can be found nowhere else. What follows is an explanation of how simple it can be.

Starting Out Right

 

If your first experience is bad or uncomfortable, it can put you off snorkeling and deprive you of continued wonderful experiences. Among the many common problems beginners encounter are:

• Water entering the face mask
• Water flooding into the snorkel tube
• A feeling of insecurity
• Minor injury
• Exhaustion

These are all minor issues but if they happen during the first few times underwater, the resulting fear can put you off snorkeling for good. That is why the following tips are so important. Follow them and your snorkeling experience will be one that you will want to keep repeating.

Find The Right Equipment

 

When it comes to snorkeling equipment, there is no such thing as “one size fits all.” Do not be taken in by advertisements that make these claims. It makes sense to visit a reputed sporting goods store and spend a little time finding the mask, snorkel and fins that are right for you. The shape of your face, the size of your nose and whether you are clean shaven or have a beard are a few of the factors that affect the fit of a mask. Try on different sizes and types to find the one that fits you best. Ensure that when the mask is on tightly (it has to keep water out) there is no discomfort or pinching. The salespeople in the store will be able to help you.

Having water flooding into your snorkel can be a very disconcerting experience. A “dry snorkel” is the best way to prevent this from happening. These snorkels have a valve on the top that seals the tube shut when you go underwater. And in case some water does enter, there is a purge valve that allows you to easily blow the water out.

Fins are like shoes. Too tight and they can be very uncomfortable after being on for any length of time. Sores and blisters can ruin the snorkeling experience. On the other hand, fins that are too lose can fall off, reducing your ability to move in the water. When trying on fins, it is important to keep in mind that your feet will be wet and in cool water, they can shrink a little bit. Look for fins that fit snugly without being so tight that they are uncomfortable.

Practice in A Pool

 

Before venturing into the ocean, spend some time in a swimming pool getting used to your new snorkeling equipment. Practice putting on the mask and adjusting it so that it sits comfortably. Try different strengths of inhaling to find the suction that keeps your mask snug and watertight on your face without being uncomfortable. Adjust the angle and height of the snorkel and where it attaches to the face mask strap to find the most comfortable position. Try out the fins at different degrees to tightness to find where they feel most secure on your feet without any discomfort.

It is always best for a beginner to go snorkeling with someone experienced. One of the best places to get started is in the incredible waters off Hawaii where charter boats with experienced crews can help you to make the most of your first experiences.

Exploring Hawaii's Coral Reefs, Part – 2

Hawaii’s Coral Reefs Are Unique

 

Hawaii was created a millennia ago, by volcanic activity in the middle of the ocean. It is the most isolated island chain to be found anywhere, and is over 2,000 miles away from any other island group or land mass. It is this isolation that has, over the centuries, insulated the islands from the environmental changes that have affected the rest of the planet. Located in the northern part of the Pacific Ocean the islands are away from the major ocean currents, so, many forms of marine life are unable to reach the islands. The wide variety of these life forms cannot be found anywhere else. About a quarter of the fish species, reef building corals, sponges and marine snails that can be seen here, are not to be found anywhere else in the world.

Along with the centuries old reefs that are going through their natural life cycle, recent lava flows, particularly on the Big Island, are contributing to the formation of new reefs and new communities of sea creatures. What you will find, when snorkeling here is unique, and is an experience to be treasured.

How You Can Protect the Coral Reefs

Hawaii’s coral reefs are fragile and visitors need to take care not to damage them. Here are a few tips you can follow, when diving and snorkeling, to protect them.

• Do not walk or stand upon the reefs. Any pressure of this kind will destroy the living coral that work to build and replenish the coral structure.
• Do not touch or try to break off a piece of coral to take home as a souvenir. Not only will you be destroying the reefs, these actions are illegal in Hawaii.
• Do not feed the fish. Any artificial food source that enters the ecosystem can have a huge impact on their natural cycle. The food you give could hurt the fish and even if it does not, it could lead to them becoming dependent on artificial sources of sustenance, which will change their metabolism. It can also cause normally passive species to become aggressive in their demands for food.
• Do not touch, pick up or hold any of the marine life you may come across. Many of the inhabitants of the reefs have very delicate suction systems to adhere to the coral and pulling them away can cause serious injury. Many of the inhabitants of the reef depend on camouflage to protect themselves and disturbing them can upset their natural life cycles. It should also be noted that some marine creatures will attack if they feel threatened. For instance, the normally quiet octopus can bite hard with its sharp beak if it feels itself in danger.
• When buying coral, fish or other marine items to take home, ensure that your purchases are only done from approved sources that use sustainable collection methods.
• Perhaps the most important action you can take to protect the reefs is to charter a qualified and experienced boat and crew, to take you snorkeling. They not only know the best places to visit, they understand the need for using sustainable snorkeling practices so that when you leave, the coral is as beautiful as it was when you arrived. A simple case in point, will explain the kind of damage carelessness can cause. An anchor dropped on top of the coral can shatter it and destroy a huge volume of marine life.
• The basic thumb rule is to see, take photos, do not touch and leave only bubbles behind when you depart.

Exploring Hawaii’s Coral Reefs, Part – 1

The mysterious and fascinating depths of the ocean and ocean life has lured many explorers to take the plunge. The Islands of Hawaii situated in pristine, clear, blue Pacific waters is manna to every scuba diver and snorkeler. Hawaii offers all kinds of water sports and marine life, of which the coral reefs that surround the islands form a unique ecosystem and are worth exploring.

Know Hawaii’s Coral Reefs before Diving

When the Earth was a young planet the volcanoes that created the Hawaiian Islands were still buried under the sea. The heat and gases that these volcanoes emitted attracted all kinds of life forms, which made their homes here. When they died, their skeletons were deposited on the sea bed. Over the millennia the volcanoes rose towards the surface and when they reached a depth of about 300 feet, light from the surface was able to filter through. This enabled plants to grow and mingle with the skeletons. As centuries passed by, these calcium rich animal skeletons, plants, shells and algae all combined to form the coral that we see today.

The coral reefs are not just a lifeless feature of the oceans. They are home to myriad types of fish and other water creatures. Exploring these reefs is an unforgettable experience. You will need to be a competent swimmer and have knowledge of scuba diving equipment. Further you will also have to know where the reefs are and where accessing them is easiest, so as to get the best of experiences. This is where an experienced charter boat operator plays a big role. Not only will they be able to take you to the right spots and provide you with the scuba gear you need, they will also take all the necessary precautions needed to ensure your safety.

The Four Types of Coral Formation

Before you take that underwater dive, familiarize yourself with the types of coral reefs found in Hawaiian waters. There are four distinct type of zones of coral formation and these are:

• Reef Flat. These coral formation are found close to the shoreline and where the water is only 6 feet deep. This part is sparsely populated by the Reef Flat, as the surge of the waves is strong here and washes away some of the loose layers of coral. The corals in the reef flat are known as rose or cauliflower corals and are formed primarily from algae. The Reef Flat Coral is home to a few species of small fish and a variety of invertebrates that prefer to stay near the shoreline.
• Surge Swept Reef.  This zone covers that part of the reef that is between six to twenty feet under the surface. Although there is a constant roll of the waves, the depth reduces the force and a variety of coral types can be found here. Invertebrates like sea cucumbers and urchins live in this part of the reef, along with a wide variety of fish and eels, many of which cannot be seen elsewhere. This is also where you can find green sea turtles.
• Reef Slope Zone.  Located at between twenty one to hundred feet down, where the impact of the waves are not that much, the Reef Slope Zone is representative of the more delicate of corals like the finger and rice corals. A large variety of fish, different from those found at lesser depths, cam be seen here, along with the white tip reef shark (which is generally harmless unless it is provoked).
• Rubble Zone. This is located in the deepest part of the ocean and where the rubble of the coral that is broken off from the higher zones can be found. Although not as exciting as the other zones, it is home to the deep water fish and eels that live here.

The coral reefs of Hawaii offer an incredibly beautiful world to explore and one that should not be missed.

Tips to Improve Your Snorkeling Technique

Snorkeling is easy, safe and a wonderful way to access the most unexplored part of our planet – The Oceans. It is a great way to see the wonders of nature, to discover the unexpected and is also, a great form of exercise. No special training is required to snorkel, for as long as you can swim, you can snorkel. Whether you are an experienced snorkeler or a rookie, here are a few tips that can maximize your pleasure in discovering the underwater world.

The Mask

• The fit of the mask on your face should be very secure, leaving no gaps between your face and the mask, so as to prevent water from seeping in. If air leaks in, so will the water.
• Place the mask over your face, to test the fit, then inhale and hold your breath; the suction should be strong enough for the mask to stay in place, without you having to hold on to it and until such time you exhale.
• Keep long hair out of the way while placing the mask on. Hair between the face and the mask will affect the secure sealing of the mask. Men with beards and moustaches should apply Vaseline to help seal the mask in place.
• Defogging of the mask – to ensure clear visibility under water, rinse the interior of your mask with any defogging product, alternatively use a drop of baby shampoo, or spit on it. But if you are in Hawaii, use the crushed leaves of the Naupaka plant that grows near the shore. Rinsing your mask in the ocean water with its salt content, is the most effective way to defog your mask.

Fins

• Fins are a necessary part of your snorkeling outfit.
• Choose fins that are not too tight, as this could cause your toes to curl up. Tight fitting fins could cause cramps and could be potentially dangerous.
• Loose fins on the other hand will slip off your feet. So try various sizes to find the perfect fit.
• When trying them on, remember it is easier to put them on, when your feet are wet.

Breathing

• Put on the snorkel and practice breathing with it before you actually go into the water.
• Put the mask on and test the secure fit as described above.
• Place the snorkel mouthpiece into your mouth and close your lips around it in the same way a sportsperson does a mouth guard.
• Do not bite down on the mouthpiece, that will not make breathing easier, and it will also cause your jaws to hurt.
• Once everything is comfortable, get in the water and allow yourself to float face down as you practice breathing in and out slowly.

Know Your Boundaries

Overestimating your abilities and thinking you can do more than you really can is one of the biggest mistakes that snorkelers make. Overextending yourself can result in all kinds of body aches and pain (the next day, or even sooner). Besides a possibility could arise where others may have to help you while you are in the water. Temperature, currents, visibility surge, and the time of day or night – all these affect your metabolism and how long you can stay in the water and how much you can do. Consequently, every time you do get into the water, your tolerance boundaries will change.

Relax and Have Fun

Hawaii is one of the best places in the world to go snorkeling. To have the best of experiences, charter a boat with a competent captain and crew and a boat that has all the equipment you will need. The crew will take you to the best snorkeling spots; they will take all the precaution needed to keep you safe and ensure that you have the adventure of a lifetime.

Reference:

http://sailhawaii.com/howtosnorkel.html

Snorkeling With Dolphins

If Flipper, the bottle-nosed dolphin captured your heart and ever since then, you have had that secret desire burning within you to meet these friendly, intelligent creatures, come to tempting Hawaii to snorkel and frolic with them. These lovable creatures mostly live in the shallow areas of the ocean along the continental shelves, so you won’t have to dive deep down to find them. Snorkeling with a pod of dolphins is an incredible adventure for animal lovers, both young and old. An added dimension to the thrill and unique experience is to snorkel among the beautiful reefs of Hawaii and the dolphins you encounter, will capture your heart with their playful and loving nature. 

 

The Dolphins of Hawaii 

 

There are 36 species of dolphins found all over the world, of which, there are 4 species that inhabit the warm Hawaiian waters. The 3 most commonly found species are the Spinner, the Pacific Bottleneck and the Spotted dolphins. The fourth species of dolphins, found in Hawaii, is the Rough Toothed dolphin, which are less commonly seen as they live in deeper waters. The Hawaiian Spinners are shaped and colored a bit differently from other species of Spinners and they are nocturnal. They also are the most commonly seen dolphins as they rest near the shoreline during the daytime. The Pacific Bottlenose are also abundant and they are the show stopper performers that you see putting on the star act at aquariums around the world. 

Kailua Kona on the Big Island is the best spot to go snorkeling with the dolphins. Hawaii has glorious weather year round with a temperature of around 80 degrees, so set sail and explore the seas on a charter boat, meet up with the dolphins and soak in unforgettable moments of adventure and pleasure. Dangle your feet in the water as you sit astride the bow, watch the dolphins as they ride in the wake of the bow, playfully splashing water on you. 

Charter companies operating in Hawaii ply boats that are well maintained, comfortable and well equipped. From snorkels to noodles to wet suits and all that you will need to dive in, to play with the dolphins. Most of the boats offer excellent food and snacks as part of the package.

The captains of each charter boat have regular spots and know exactly where the pods of dolphins hang out. The experienced crew will introduce you to the pod, keeping your safety and the wellbeing of the dolphins in mind. Generally, the crew will introduce you to the gentler, female dolphins rather than the more aggressive males. 

 

Dolphin Snorkeling Etiquette 

 

These trusting gentle creature can be easily hurt and their habitat destroyed. Humans who mingle with them must observe the basics of dolphin snorkeling etiquette. You don’t want to abuse the welcome that the dolphin give. Don’t worry, good marine manners will not limit your fun or interfere with your dolphin interaction. All that you need to do is observe a few guidelines that the boat crew will brief you about. One of the most important rule is, to not disturb them during their rest periods. These are very active animals and getting enough rest is essential for their wellbeing. 

Maybe meeting Flipper was a childhood dream of yours. Maybe you just want to experience something that millions of people around the world have fallen in love with. It doesn’t matter why you go snorkeling with the dolphins; just relax, enjoy the adventure of snorkeling in the azure blue waters of Hawaii and interact, “eyeball to eyeball” with the dolphins. Take back priceless memories that will make a great fireside tale to recount to your grandchildren. 

 

References:

http://www.hawaiisnorkelingguide.com/
http://www.bestplaceshawaii.com/tips/10_best/snorkeling.html http://www.tropicalsnorkeling.com/snorkeling-hawaii.html