I overheard a woman tell my daughter Michelle that there was a beached giant turtle in the front of the Maui Marriott Ocean Club Molokai. As it turned out it was a Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle (Honu) near an abandoned boat that was shipwrecked from last years storm while we were here. Honu are the only sea turtles in the world that regularly bask or sunbathe on shore. Though singular sightings near where we are staying are infrequent.
A sign was posted letting tourist know the turtle was not stranded, and should not be touched or fed, and view them respectfully from ten feet distance. Of course, several weren't heeding the distance restrictions. They are native, wild animals that are best left alone. They are protected under State and Federal law. Do not disturb on land or in the water
Many people consider honu their family guardians. In Hawaiian culture hey are a symbol of wisdom, longevity, good luck, peace, lifelong protection and mana (spiritual energy). They are depicted in ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs, artwork, and mythology and represent the eternal link between man, land, and sea. They are thought to live up to 80 years and reach maturity at about 200 pounds.
Honu or Turtle Wisdom:
Spend more time at the beach
Let worries roll off your back
Swim at your own pace
Enjoy time by yourself
Come up for air
Trust the flow
Slow Down
Breathe
