Mālama Honu, Mālama Honua – Turtle Program
Established in 1989, the Mālama Honu, Mālama Honua program creates awareness for endangered Green sea turtles through education, conservation and community. In partnership with O’ahu-based marine and wildlife center Sea Life Park, Mauna Lani nurtures captive-reared hatchlings in our turtle pond, also known as Honu (Turtle) Lagoon. As our sea turtles grow, thousands of visitors linger by Honu Lagoon to learn about the Green sea turtle's relationship with the environment. After two to three years of growth, our sea turtles return to their home in the ocean on Turtle Independence Day.
Mālama Honu, Mālama Honua
When we care for the turtles, we care for the world.
Marvel at our Green sea turtles at Honu Lagoon while exploring the biological, ecological and cultural significance of Hawaii’s native species.
- Located at Honu Lagoon
- Daily at 8:30am
- 45 minutes
- All ages welcome
An annual community celebration that has endured for more than 30 years, Turtle Independence Day represents the rebirth of our Green sea turtle hatchlings after 2 to 3 years of growth in the turtle pond. Gather along Mauna Lani's oceanfront on July 4th, aptly known as Turtle Independence Day, to witness their homecoming to the Pacific Ocean.
- Located at the oceanfront (in front of the Surf Shack)
- Annually on July 4th
- Roughly 3 hours
- All ages
- Open to resort guests and community members
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