A silhouette appears between two coral formations. Slowly, a sea turtle leaves the bottom, rises to the surface to breathe, then quietly dives back into the waters of the lagoon.
In Moorea, encountering a sea turtle is often one of the most memorable moments of a day on the water.
The lagoon and reefs surrounding the island are mainly home to two iconic species found in French Polynesia: the green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) and the hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata).
They can be encountered in the lagoon, near coral reefs, around the passes or along the outer reef drop-offs. They come to these areas to feed, rest or simply move from one place to another.
But a sea turtle remains a wild animal. The best way to observe one is to slow down, respect its space and let the turtle decide how the encounter unfolds.
Discover our private lagoon tour in Moorea
Table of Contents
- The two species of sea turtles found around Moorea
- The green sea turtle
- The hawksbill sea turtle
- Where can you see sea turtles in Moorea?
- Why do sea turtles come to the surface to breathe?
- The captain's tip
- Sea turtle reproduction
- How is the sex of a sea turtle determined?
- Are sea turtles endangered?
- How to observe sea turtles responsibly
- More than a tour, a human connection
- Frequently asked questions
- A word from the captain
- Continue discovering Moorea's marine life
The two species of sea turtles found around Moorea
Two species are regularly observed in the waters around Moorea:
- the green sea turtle, generally larger and often encountered in seagrass areas or shallow waters;
- the hawksbill sea turtle, smaller and recognizable by its narrow, pointed beak, often associated with coral reefs.
These two species do not have exactly the same diet or habits.
The green sea turtle plays an important role in maintaining healthy seagrass beds. The hawksbill turtle feeds within coral reefs and also contributes to the balance of the reef ecosystem.
Learning to recognize them helps us better understand their behavior and the environments in which they live.
The green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas)
The green sea turtle is one of the largest species of sea turtle. It mainly inhabits tropical lagoons, shallow waters and areas rich in marine vegetation.
Main characteristics
- shell length: approximately 80 to 130 cm (31 to 51 inches);
- weight: generally 80 to 200 kg (175 to 440 lb), although some individuals can be considerably heavier;
- shell: oval and relatively smooth, usually brown to olive in color;
- head: relatively small compared with the size of its body.
Despite its name, the green sea turtle does not have a green shell. The name actually comes from the greenish color of the fat beneath its shell.
Habitat and diet
Adult green sea turtles are commonly found in:
- tropical lagoons;
- seagrass beds;
- shallow areas rich in marine vegetation;
- certain resting areas close to coral reefs.
They feed mainly on seagrass and algae.
By grazing on seagrass beds, green sea turtles contribute to their renewal and help maintain the ecological balance of the lagoon.
The Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
The hawksbill sea turtle is generally smaller than the green sea turtle.
It is easy to recognize thanks to its narrow, pointed beak, which resembles that of a bird of prey, and by the overlapping scutes on its shell, which look like roof tiles.
Main characteristics
- shell length: approximately 70 to 90 cm (28 to 35 inches);
- weight: generally 45 to 70 kg (100 to 155 lb);
- beak: narrow, elongated and sharply pointed;
- shell: overlapping scutes with beautiful contrasting patterns.
Its pointed beak allows it to reach food hidden inside coral crevices and rocky areas.
Habitat and diet
Hawksbill turtles are often seen:
- around coral reefs;
- in rocky areas;
- near reef passes;
- along the outer reef drop-offs.
They feed mainly on sponges and small organisms living within the coral reef ecosystem.
They are usually more discreet than green sea turtles and can quickly disappear between coral formations.
Where can you see sea turtles in Moorea?
Sea turtles do not remain in the same place all the time.
They move according to where they can find food, rest, breathe and depending on sea conditions.
Inside the lagoon
You may encounter them:
- around coral bommies and coral gardens;
- in seagrass beds;
- in deeper areas where they sometimes rest;
- close to reef passes.
Outside the lagoon
They may also be observed:
- near the passes;
- along the outer reef drop-offs;
- in areas influenced by ocean currents;
- where food is abundant.
During a private boat tour, we can explore several different environments and adapt the itinerary to the conditions of the day.
However, turtle sightings can never be guaranteed. They are wild animals and are free to move wherever they choose.
👉 Discover Moorea's lagoon on a private boat tour
Why do sea turtles come to the surface to breathe?
Sea turtles spend almost their entire lives in the ocean, but they are not fish.
They are reptiles with lungs, which means they must regularly return to the surface to breathe.
How often they surface depends on what they are doing.
- a turtle that is actively swimming usually surfaces more frequently;
- a turtle feeding on the reef may remain underwater for several minutes;
- a resting turtle can stay submerged much longer.
When a turtle surfaces, it usually takes a few quick breaths before diving again.
It is important to always leave a clear path to the surface and avoid positioning yourself directly above the animal.
👨✈️ The Captain's Tip
When we see a turtle swimming down toward the bottom or moving around a coral formation, we never try to chase it with the boat.
Instead, we place the engine in neutral, keep a respectful distance and simply wait.
Very often, the turtle comes back to the surface to breathe only a few minutes later.
This young turtle stayed around us for several minutes before quietly continuing its journey toward the reef. We simply remained in neutral and waited, without chasing it or trying to get any closer.
Those are often the moments when the most beautiful encounters happen.
The same principle applies in the water. There is no point in chasing a turtle. If it chooses to swim away, let it go.
On the other hand, when swimmers remain calm and respect its space, the turtle will often continue feeding or moving naturally around them.
At sea, patience almost always creates better encounters than rushing after wildlife.
Sea Turtle Reproduction
The life cycle of sea turtles is truly remarkable.
Adult females return to nesting beaches after sometimes traveling thousands of kilometers across the ocean.
Nesting
- Females usually come ashore at night.
- Using their rear flippers, they dig a nest in the sand.
- They lay dozens of eggs in the nest.
- They carefully cover the nest with sand.
- Finally, they return to the ocean.
The eggs incubate for several weeks beneath the sand.
Once they hatch, the tiny turtles emerge from the nest and instinctively make their way toward the sea.
This first stage of their lives is extremely difficult. Only a small percentage of hatchlings will survive long enough to reach adulthood.
Artificial lights, obstacles on the beach, predators and human activities can all make their journey to the ocean much more difficult.
How Is the Sex of a Sea Turtle Determined?
Unlike mammals, the sex of a sea turtle is not determined genetically.
Instead, it depends largely on the temperature of the sand during incubation.
- Warmer sand generally produces more females.
- Cooler sand generally produces more males.
This unique characteristic makes sea turtles particularly vulnerable to rising temperatures caused by climate change.
Among adults, males can often be recognized by:
- a noticeably longer tail;
- larger front claws.
In juvenile turtles, however, it is almost impossible to distinguish males from females simply by looking at them.
Are Sea Turtles Endangered?
Sea turtles face many threats throughout their lives.
- Plastic pollution and marine debris.
- Destruction of coral reefs, seagrass beds and nesting beaches.
- Accidental capture in fishing gear.
- Collisions with boats.
- Disturbance while feeding or resting.
- Artificial lighting near nesting beaches.
- Rising sand temperatures caused by climate change.
The hawksbill sea turtle is considered one of the most endangered sea turtle species worldwide.
Fortunately, conservation programs, habitat protection and increased public awareness are helping improve the survival of some turtle populations.
Each of us can also contribute by reducing waste, protecting coral reefs and observing turtles respectfully without forcing an interaction.
How to Observe Sea Turtles Responsibly
Following a few simple rules helps protect turtles while allowing everyone to enjoy an unforgettable encounter.
- Keep a respectful distance.
- Never touch a turtle or hold onto its shell.
- Never chase it.
- Do not surround it with several swimmers.
- Always leave a clear path to the surface.
- Avoid shouting or making sudden movements.
- Never feed sea turtles.
- Never stand on coral to get closer.
A turtle returning to the surface must always be able to breathe freely without feeling trapped.
The goal is not to obtain the perfect close-up photograph, but to enjoy a natural encounter without changing the animal's behavior.
If a turtle chooses to swim away, simply let it go.
More Than a Tour, a Human Connection
We have chosen to offer only private excursions, with a maximum of four guests.
This small group allows everyone to enjoy the lagoon in complete peace, take their time and adapt the experience to the day's conditions and each guest's expectations.
When we find a sea turtle, we are not forced to rush to the next stop.
We can simply remain at a respectful distance, observe its natural behavior and enjoy the moment for as long as the turtle is comfortable and conditions allow.
But for us, the value of a private tour goes far beyond wildlife observation.
Spending half a day together gives us time to get to know each other. We quickly learn everyone's name on board.
We talk about our travels, our families, our work, our passions and our life experiences.
Our guests often share part of their own story with us, while we share ours: our daily life in Moorea and our experience of the ocean.
Little by little, the excursion becomes much more than a boat trip. It becomes a moment of discovery, sharing and genuine human connection.
That is exactly why we love offering private tours.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sea Turtles in Moorea
Can you see sea turtles all year round in Moorea?
Yes. Sea turtles live around Moorea throughout the year. However, their presence in a particular area can never be guaranteed.
Can you swim with sea turtles in Moorea?
Yes, when turtles are present, they can sometimes be observed while snorkeling. It is important to respect their space and never try to touch or chase them.
Where are the best places to see them?
Sea turtles are often found in seagrass beds, around coral reefs, near reef passes and along the outer reef drop-offs.
The best location depends on the day's conditions and on the turtles' movements.
When is the best season to see sea turtles?
Sea turtles are present throughout the year. The quality of an excursion depends much more on swell, underwater visibility and sea conditions than on a particular season.
Can I touch a sea turtle?
No. Sea turtles should never be touched. Physical contact may stress the animal, interrupt its feeding or resting behavior and alter its natural movements.
Why do sea turtles come to the surface?
Because they are reptiles that breathe with lungs. They must regularly return to the surface to take a few breaths before diving again.
How long can a sea turtle stay underwater?
The answer depends on its activity. A turtle that is swimming or feeding surfaces more often than one that is resting quietly.
Can children observe sea turtles?
Yes, provided they are comfortable in the water and properly supervised. During a private tour, the pace can easily be adapted to the family and to each participant.
Is seeing a sea turtle guaranteed?
No. Sea turtles are wild animals. We visit the areas they regularly use, but every encounter depends entirely on nature.
Why shouldn't we chase a turtle?
A turtle that feels pursued may swim away, interrupt its feeding or leave its resting area. Calm and respectful observation almost always leads to a much better experience.
🌊 A Word from the Captain
"A sea turtle is never in a hurry. If we take the time to observe it without disturbing it, it often gives us far more than just a photograph."
Continue Exploring Moorea's Marine Life
Sea turtles are only one part of Moorea's extraordinary marine ecosystem.
In the lagoon and around the reef, you may also encounter rays, reef sharks, tropical fish, dolphins and, during the season, humpback whales.
- All our articles about Moorea's marine life
- Where can you see dolphins in Moorea?
- Whale Watching & Swimming with Humpback Whales
- Discover our Private Lagoon Tour
👉 Book Your Private Boat Tour in Moorea