10 Places Where You Can Swim With Hawksbill Turtles and Colorful Parrotfish
A reef swim changes dramatically when marine life appears nearby. Hawksbill turtles often glide along coral ledges to feed before moving on, while parrotfish add bright color to shallow reefs. If you want to swim alongside these amazing creatures, these travel spots give you the best chance to experience the magic yourself.
Sipadan, Malaysia
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Sipadan remains a top global destination for spotting green and hawksbill turtles year-round. While seeing dozens on a single dive takes some luck, the steep underwater walls offer a reliable thrill. These vertical drop-offs contain deep ledges where turtles rest, so divers get an easy opportunity to watch them closely.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
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The Great Barrier Reef features bright parrotfish alongside six species of sea turtles. Hawksbill turtles thrive in this region because the coral and rocks hide the sponges they eat. PADI recommends visiting between May and October for the best weather and water conditions. This clear window gives travelers a clear timeline for planning an unforgettable diving trip to see these amazing marine animals up close.
Ari Atoll, Maldives
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Ari Atoll is best for slow, relaxed reef watching. Hawksbill nesting in the Maldives is rare, but sightings while feeding or passing through do occur. With patience, snorkelers may see hawksbills, along with more commonly spotted green and olive ridley turtles.
Maui, United States
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Seeing a hawksbill turtle in Hawaii is a rare treat. Green turtles actually outnumber hawksbills there by 100 to one, according to NOAA. Locals call the hawksbill honuʻea, while the familiar green turtles are known as honu. When swimming near Maui’s reefs, good manners are essential. Swimmers must stay back, avoid chasing the turtles, and let them swim naturally so the nearby marine life can thrive without pressure.
Marsa Alam, Egypt
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Abu Dabbab Bay near Marsa Alam offers two distinct marine environments. Green turtles feed on shallow seagrass beds, while hawksbill turtles are more commonly found around nearby coral reefs. This combination of habitats means each swim can feel different. Visitors may watch grazing turtles in the afternoon and, later, explore reef areas with a guide through snorkeling or diving.
Bunaken, Indonesia
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Dramatic underwater cliffs remain the highlight of Bunaken. Sea turtles glide effortlessly as the coral reef drops straight down into the deep sea. Green and hawksbill turtles can be easily seen in this North Sulawesi marine park, especially from May through October. Colorful sponges and bright reef fish crowd the walls while scuba divers float slowly along the edge of the vast ocean.
Seychelles
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The Seychelles is a top diving destination for its beautiful scenery and protected wildlife. The granite islands create a unique setting above water. Below the surface, the islands host green and hawksbill sea turtles. The famous Aldabra Atoll serves as a critical habitat for these creatures. During calm dives, you can watch hawksbill turtles use their narrow beaks to eat sea sponges along the coral reefs.
Ambergris Caye, Belize
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If you want an easy snorkel without planning a massive expedition, Hol Chan Marine Reserve near Ambergris Caye is perfect. The protected Belize reserve features thriving coral reefs, seagrass beds, and coastal mangroves. Swimmers have been known to spot green, hawksbill, and loggerhead sea turtles here. Bright parrotfish also swim through the shallow grass.
Fujairah, United Arab Emirates
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Fujairah is known more for easy snorkeling than deep diving. In the Gulf of Oman, Snoopy Island is one of the best spots to see green and hawksbill turtles, especially from October to May. Conditions need to be safe, but on good days, the clear water, coral reefs, reef fish, and turtles create a strong snorkeling experience.
Kerama Islands, Japan
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This Okinawa island group features hawksbill, green, and loggerhead turtles, with rare olive ridley sightings. Such incredible turtle variety stands out on its own. The beautiful coral gardens offer stunning visuals, but divers must use careful finning and good visibility. Visitors can enjoy the view without kicking the reef or damaging the fragile marine ecosystem.