Hawaiian green sea turtles, known locally as honu, are embarking on their annual nesting journey, a cycle that has repeated for millions of years.

These ancient mariners travel hundreds of miles to return to the very beaches where they were born, driven by instincts that defy human understanding.

In the Kailua-Kona region, while nesting is less common compared to the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, recent years have seen an increase in nesting activity on the main Hawaiian Islands.

This shift offers residents and visitors a unique opportunity to witness this remarkable event firsthand.

During the nesting season, which typically runs from May through August, female honu come ashore under the cover of darkness to lay their eggs.

Each nest can contain between 60 to over 100 eggs, which incubate beneath the sand for approximately 60 days.

As hatchlings emerge, usually between August and October, they make a perilous journey to the ocean, guided by the natural light of the horizon.

It's crucial for beachgoers to be aware of nesting sites and to maintain a respectful distance.

Approaching too closely can cause a female to abandon her nesting attempt, and disturbing hatchlings can disorient them, reducing their chances of survival.

Local guidelines recommend staying at least 20 feet away from turtles and avoiding the use of artificial lights on beaches at night, as these can mislead hatchlings away from the ocean.

In February 2026, Kailua-Kona hosted the 44th International Sea Turtle Symposium, bringing together experts from around the world to discuss conservation strategies and share research findings.

This event underscored the global significance of Hawaii's sea turtle populations and the ongoing efforts to protect them.

As the 2026 nesting season unfolds, the community's role in safeguarding these creatures becomes ever more vital.

By respecting nesting sites, minimizing disturbances, and supporting local conservation initiatives, residents and visitors alike can contribute to the continued recovery and health of the honu population.

Observing a sea turtle in its natural habitat is a profound experience, one that connects us to the ancient rhythms of the natural world.

As we share the beaches of Kailua-Kona with these remarkable animals, let's commit to ensuring their survival for generations to come.