Hawaii provides significant nesting grounds for sea turtles. The emergence of hatchlings from their nests is a compelling natural event, central to their life cycle in the Hawaiian Islands.
Hatching Season in Hawaii
Sea turtle nesting season in Hawaii typically spans from mid-April through November, occasionally extending into December. The peak period for nesting, particularly for Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), occurs from August through November. This means that while nesting begins in spring, hatchlings generally emerge later in the year.
Hatching usually starts around July and continues through December, depending on when eggs were laid. Sea turtle eggs typically incubate for about two months, though this duration varies with nest temperature. Warmer sand temperatures result in a shorter incubation period, while cooler temperatures lead to a longer one.
Key Species and Nesting Habits
Two primary sea turtle species nest and hatch in Hawaii: the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle (Honu) and the Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Ea or Honuʻea). The Hawaiian green sea turtle is the most commonly observed species. Over 95% of the Hawaiian green sea turtle population nests in the French Frigate Shoals (Lalo) in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.
Hawksbill sea turtles, while less numerous, nest primarily along Hawaii Island’s remote Kaʻū coastline. Some nesting also occurs on isolated beaches on Maui, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, and Kauaʻi. Their nesting season runs from May to December.
The Hatching Journey
After approximately two months of incubation within the sandy nest, hatchlings begin to emerge. The sand temperature during incubation determines hatchling sex; warmer temperatures tend to produce more females, while cooler temperatures yield more males.
Hatchlings usually emerge at night, collectively “boiling” out of the nest. Their instinct guides them toward the brightest horizon, the moonlit ocean. This journey from the nest to the sea is challenging, as they navigate obstacles like footprints and debris while avoiding predators such as crabs and birds.
Upon reaching the water, tiny turtles embark on a “swimming frenzy” that can last for several days. This intense swimming helps them move away from vulnerable nearshore waters, reducing their risk of predation. They then enter a period referred to as the “lost years,” where their whereabouts remain largely unknown for up to a decade as they mature in the open ocean.
Protecting Hatchlings and Responsible Viewing
All sea turtles in Hawaii are protected under federal law by the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 195D. It is illegal to touch, harass, or interfere with sea turtles, including hatchlings. Violations can result in significant fines.
When observing sea turtles or potential nesting sites, maintain a distance of at least 10 feet. This applies both on land and in the water. Using bright lights, including flash photography, phone screens, or vehicle lights, near nesting beaches at night can disorient adult turtles and emerging hatchlings, leading them away from the ocean.
If an injured, stranded, or dead sea turtle or hatchling is found, immediately contact the statewide NOAA Marine Wildlife Hotline at 1-888-256-9840. Reporting such observations helps authorities monitor and respond to situations impacting these protected animals.