We began the day by finding a relatively secluded cove with no one but ourselves to enjoy the pristine beach. When we were swimming in the relatively heavy surf, a huge green turtle appeared and looked at us for the longest time. We quickly moved away and gave it an ample path forward. That was the first of six such sightings of different turtles working along the shore line. I was ecstatic because this was my top objectives in coming to the North Shore.
The green sea turtles migrate long distances to feed and breed. They can live to 80 years in the wild. They are also listed as endangered by the IUCN and CITES. They can grow to five feet in length with an average weight of 50–419 lb.
We then went to Laniakea Beach, also known as Turtle Beach, where dozens of sea turtles make daily pilgrimages to feed on the seagrass off the rocks in the sun. It was overwhelming. A dozen huge turtles moved off and on the rocks. Unfortunately, there are always some people who show no interest or inclination to respect basic rules set out to protect the wildlife. It is against the law to interfere or touch these turtles. You are required to stay ten feet away. That is hardly a deprivation in watching these turtles. However, some idiots got into the water inches away from the turtles while others took moronic poses virtually on top of the creatures. The redemption for the human race was found in volunteers from the Malama na Honu (Protect the Turtles) organization, a wonderful organization which serves as daily guardians of these turtles. They politely remind tourists of the 10 feet rule despite ample signage and warnings. I am always overwhelmed by how individuals will step forward in such places to protect nature. For all of the narcissism and stupidity of some tourists harassing these turtles,these volunteers represent the very best of our own species.
Here are some of the pictures from Turtle Beach:
In the morning we fly to Kauai and bid farewell to the turtles, waterfalls, and beaches of Oahu.