Sea Turtles
Seeing sea turtles in their natural habitat is a truly magical experience. The Hawaiian island of Big Island is one of the best places in the world to see these amazing creatures. Four main types of sea turtles can be found in the waters around Big Island: green sea turtles, loggerhead sea turtles, hawksbill sea turtles, and leatherback sea turtles. While all four species are protected under federal law, the green sea turtle is particularly special to the people of Hawaii.
Also known as ‘honu,’ green sea turtles have been revered by Native Hawaiians for centuries. You can often see honu basking on the sand or swimming near the shoreline. If you’re lucky enough to spot one of these beautiful creatures, give it plenty of space and respect its natural habitat.
Monk Seals
One of the best things about Hawaii is seeing so many different types of wildlife. You can find everything from sea turtles to dolphins to whales on the big island. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a monk seal. These rare animals are often seen basking on the beach or swimming in the water.
If you’re lucky enough to see one of these seals, give them plenty of space and respect their wishes to be left alone. Although they look lazy, they are very good at hunting fish. Their Hawaiian name, “Ilioholoikauaua,” means “dog that runs in rough water.”
Manta Rays
Manta rays are one of the most majestic creatures in the ocean. These gentle giants can grow up to 23 feet long and weigh over 3,000 pounds. Despite their size, manta rays are graceful swimmers gliding effortlessly through the water. And odds are you will see a few if you visit the big island. Every night, hundreds of manta rays congregate in the waters off the island to feed on plankton.
This natural spectacle can be viewed from a special floating platform known as a manta ray night dive. To get the most out of your experience, book a tour with a reputable operator who will give you expert instructions on safely interacting with these fascinating creatures.
Reef Triggerfish
The Big Island of Hawaii is home to many different types of fish, including the reef triggerfish. These brightly colored fish are a common sight in the shallower waters around the island. They get their name from their large, trigger-like scales, which they use to protect themselves from predators. Reef triggerfish are also known for their vibrant colors, ranging from yellow and blue to orange and green.
In addition to being beautiful to look at, these fish are also important for the health of the coral reefs. They play a vital role in keeping the reefs clean by eating algae and other small organisms that can harm the coral. As a result, seeing reef triggerfish on the Big Island of Hawaii is not only a visual treat but also indicates that the reef is healthy and thriving.
Keep An Eye Out For The Sea Life You Can See On The Big Island!
There are many different types of sea life that you can see on the Big Island of Hawaii. From turtles and monk seals to manta rays and reef triggerfish, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So get out there and explore the amazing underwater world of the Big Island! Just be sure to respect the animals and their natural habitat. After all, you are visiting their home, which deserves to be treated with care.