There’s something magical about taking a dip below the ocean’s surface in Hawaii. Here, the world transforms: sounds go away, colors shift from tropical greens to brilliant blues, and suddenly you’re floating in a strangely welcoming new world.
If you’re lucky, something larger appears that makes watch in wonder. Here are three remarkable creatures you might meet beneath the waves, each carrying its own deep cultural significance and natural magic.
Honu: the Hawaiian green sea turtle
Few underwater sights match the grace of a honu gliding past, moving its flippers to the rhythm of the surf. Honu can weigh up to 400 pounds, yet they move through the water with an elegance that seems almost effortless.
In Hawaiian culture, honu hold profound spiritual importance. They’re considered ʻaumākua, or family guardians or ancestral spirits for many Native Hawaiians. Ancient moʻolelo (stories) tell of honu guiding lost voyagers safely to shore, leading fishermen to abundant waters, and even transforming into human form to warn families of approaching danger.
Where to see honu on Maui
Maui offers some of the most reliable honu encounters in all of Hawaii. Turtle Town (near Makena), Honolua Bay, and Olowalu are particularly excellent spots where turtles come to rest and feed. You’ll often see them year-round, either cruising along the reef edge or peacefully napping on the sand or lava rock.
Important to know: Honu are protected under both federal and state law. Stay at least 10 feet away (3 meters) and never touch or chase them. When you give them space, they often become curious and may swim closer on their own terms — a far more rewarding experience than any forced encounter.
Heʻe: the day octopus
Day octopuses are the ocean’s master magicians, capable of changing not just color but texture in mere seconds. One moment you’re looking at what appears to be a rocky outcrop, the next, eight arms unfurl and the “rock” transforms into a mottled red-brown creature before vanishing into a crevice.
Spotting a heʻe requires patience and a good eye. They’re most active during dawn and dusk, hunting for crabs and small fish along the reef. Watch for movement that doesn’t quite match the reef, like a ripple of color, a curious eye peeking from a hole, or the telltale sucker marks of an arm reaching out to explore.
The cultural significance of heʻe runs deep in Hawaiian tradition. The octopus is recognized as a kinolau (a physical form) of Kanaloa, one of the four major Hawaiian gods. Kanaloa is the god of the ocean, of deep waters, and of hidden knowledge. In the Kumulipo (the Hawaiian creation chant), the octopus appears as one of the earliest forms of life, representing the primordial darkness from which all existence emerged.
Where to see heʻe on Maui
Day octopuses are present year-round throughout Maui’s reefs, but encounters are unpredictable. Your best chances are during early morning or late afternoon snorkels at coral-rich areas like Honolua Bay, Black Rock, or Olowalu. Look carefully in coral crevices and rocky areas, they’re masters of camouflage.
Important to know: While not legally protected like honu, octopuses deserve respect. Avoid disturbing their dens or touching them. If you find one, watch quietly and let it go about its business naturally.
Hihimanu: the spotted eagle ray
If honu represent calm grace and heʻe showcase mysterious intelligence, hihimanu bring total elegance. Picture a creature shaped like a diamond kite, with distinctive white spots or rings scattered across a dark back, gliding through the water with gentle, wing-like movements. Their long, whip-like tails trail behind as they cruise along reef edges or over sandy bottoms.
Hihimanu are often seen swimming solo or in small groups, usually in the early morning or late afternoon. They move with intent and purpose, often foraging for mollusks and crustaceans buried in the sand, their flat bodies undulating like wings in slow motion. Watching a hihimanu glide past is like witnessing an underwater ballet.
In Hawaiian culture, hihimanu are respected as graceful navigators of the ocean realm. The name itself is poetic: “hihimanu” can be interpreted as “magnificent” or “elegant bird,” reflecting how these rays seem to fly rather than swim through the water. Like the honu, some Hawaiian families recognize hihimanu as ʻaumākua.
Where to see hihimanu on Maui
Eagle rays are commonly spotted around Black Rock (Kaʻanapali), Honolua Bay, Olowalu, and the waters off Wailea. They’re year-round residents but tend to be most active during early morning hours. Snorkelers and divers at Molokini Crater also report regular sightings, particularly along the outer edges of the crater.
Important to know: Hihimanu are generally shy and will move away if approached too closely. Give them plenty of space and avoid chasing them. Like all marine life in Hawaiʻi, they’re protected from harassment under state law.
Image credits: sunsetsfromabove,
Need a hand with your next Maui vacation? Please contact the Sunny Maui Vacations team at info@sunnymauivacations.com or call 808-240-1311, ext. 21. We’ll find you the best vacation rental condo or rental home in South Maui and help you with any and all recommendations and activities across Maui.
