Where Can You See Turtles While Diving? 12 Amazing Destinations
Seeing turtles are on a lot of divers bucket lists. These animals are cute, peaceful and universally loved. In this guide I will talk about 12 perfect destinations to see turtles as a scuba diver. I will also give you an overview on where to see the different species of turtles.
Why Are Turtles So Popular Among Divers?
Turtles move greacefully underwater and are magical to witness. The most common turtle species are green sea turtles, hawksbill turtles and loggerhead turtles whereas Leatherback turtles are more rare.
Best Places to See Turtles While Diving
Sipadan, Malaysia
Sipidan is closed to tourists. This means you can’t stay on this island in Malaysia. But a limited amount of people each day get the chance go to there on daytrip. The best time to visit Sipidan for divers is from March to June, altough diving there is possible all year round. In Sipidan you get the chance to see green and hawksbill turtles. You will need your Advanced Certification to dive in Sipidan.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galápagos Islands are famous for their amazing marine biodiversity. The Galápagos are also for more advanced divers, since the conditions are not always easy. The large green sea turtles lives here.
Maui, Hawaiʻi
In Hawaiʻi there are excellent possibilities to dive from the shores. The water temperature is pleasant and you get a chance to observe hawaiian green sea turtles.
Gili Islands, Indonesia
There are frequent turtle sightings on Gili Islands and the conditions are perfect for beginners.
Apo Island, Philippines
On Apo Island lives a resident turtle population. This is due to a protected marine area resulting in healthy coral reefs.
Marsa Alam, Egypt
There are a lot of turtles living in the Red Sea. Your best chance to see them is in the south of Egypt, Marsa Alam. One popular dive spot for turtles is Abu Dabbab Bay. The visibility is excellent and you get the chance to see green turtles.
Maldives
The Maldives are a more expensive destination but well known for very diverse marine life. You will get to see hawksbill and green turtles. If you want to dive in the Maldives you need to think about living in a resort of on a liveaboard.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
In the largest ecosystem in the world, the Great Barrier Reef, live six different turtle species. Depending on where you go and on the season you will also be able to see them nesting on the beaches.
Cozumel, Mexico
In Cozumel you will be able to go on drift dives with turtles. The marine life is diverse and the coral reefs healthy.
Costa Rica (Cocos Island)
Cocos Island is a perfect place for remote diving so you will get the chance to see a lot of different big animals like manta rays, sharks and turtles.
Seychelles
Similiar like in the Maldives, the Seychelles have healthy reefs and marine life is diverse. From October to April you will get the chance to see hawksbill nesting on the beaches.
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Zanzibar offers warm and tropical waters and you will get so see a lot of turtles in reefs.
Tips for Diving with Sea Turtles Responsibly
Just like when you are diving in general, you need to be aware that turtles are wild animals you should never touch or chase. It’s best to keep your distance and wait for the animal to approach you. But don’t swim in its path and block their way. You can achieve this by practicing your boyancy and keep calm underwater. Another point where you can make a difference is by choosing an eco-friendly diving school or tour operator. Make sure the company you go diving with, follows all the rules I just mentioned. You can check their website on what they say about eco-friendliness or look at the reviews online.
Which Turtle Species Can You See While Diving?
| Species | Where You’ll Find Them | Interesting Fact |
| Green Turtle | Tropical reefs worldwide | Mostly herbivorous |
| Hawksbill Turtle | Coral reefs | Beautiful patterned shell |
| Loggerhead Turtle | Temperate & tropical waters | Powerful jaws |
| Leatherback Turtle | Open ocean | Largest sea turtle alive |
Conclusion
When you choose a tropical destination it’s almost certain that you will be able to observe turtles while scuba diving. Popular amogs travelers and divers are Egypt, Costa Rica and the Great Barrier Reef.
Remember to always be responsible during wildlife interactions and to never touch animals or plants underwater.
