I’ve posted before about Laniakea Beach, sometimes called Turtle Beach, but it was quite awhile ago. We visited again recently and it was/is so pretty I had to post about it again, plus this time we saw turtles!
For some reason, this beach is a favorite with Hawaiian green sea turtles. They are here so often that guide books list them as a scenic attraction and a volunteer group has been set up to keep an eye on them. You probably won’t have this beach to yourself but the crowds haven’t seemed to deter the turtles and you shouldn’t let them keep you from stopping by either.
On our recent visit we joined the circle of people and enjoyed an up close view and took some turtle pictures. They look a bit like rocks on the beach but that’s a big turtle in the middle of the picture.
Here’s a closer view.
My kids can’t always spot turtles in the water when they come up briefly for air but they can’t miss these turtles. They always enjoy looking at them before heading off to climb on the surrounding rocks and explore the rest of this beautiful beach. While they do that I look out into the water and see how many turtles I can spot there.
I’m not sure why the turtles love this beach but they have good tastes. Stop by and check out this beautiful spot yourself!
Do it yourself on Oahu:
Location: Located off of the Kamehameha Hwy (Hwy 83) not too far out of Hale’iwa between Hale’iwa and Waimea Bay.
Directions/How to find: The beach comes right up to the highway with no trees between the beach and the road. Here’s a picture:
Parking: Parking is across the street in a big dirt pull-out type area which you can see in the picture.
Facilities: No restrooms or showers at this beach but there is a lifeguard.
Other: • When we’ve seen turtles on the beach they have always been on the far right end of the beach as you’re facing the ocean. • Hawaiian green sea turtles are a threatened species protected by law, and touching or harassing them is illegal. Give them their space and save yourself possible fines and even jail time. • During the day there are volunteers at this beach keeping a watchful eye on the turtles. They are a great source of information, so if you have turtle questions, ask them!
More Info: Laniakea Beach on Oahu Mom
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I have lived here my entire life and still have never been to this beach! Mainly because I never knew exactly where it was!! Thanks for posting this!
You’re welcome! I know my directions sound vague but if you’re looking for it you should be able to find it without any trouble – as you’re headed toward Waimea Bay from Haleiwa, beach right next to the road on the left, parking on the right. Enjoy!