With Aloha, Honu

I spent the afternoon with the most amazing creatures at Hookipa Beach in Paia, Maui. The multitude of sea turtles was incredible as they rode in on the waves and made their way to the sandy shore to bask in the afternoon sun.

After taking many photos, (with a long lens and maintaining all legal requirements) I watched the turtles. After landing on shore via the waves, they slowly made their way to the group, sometimes climbing upon one another to find their just right spot.

Honu live about 80 years. They are four feet long and can weigh over 300 pounds. It is important to remember that they (and all sea turtles) are federally protected animals and must be respected.

Viewing the honu was both exciting and relaxing. It was exciting to watch them come on shore. Seeing the shear number gathered at this location was amazing. It was also so relaxing that I fell asleep near one that had decided to find his own spot and wasn’t hanging out with the group. Napping with turtles? I think so.