While splashing around in the warm Hawaiian surf, one family recently found themselves at the center of a breathtaking ocean encounter — without even realizing it. They weren’t the ones who approached wildlife that day. Instead, wildlife approached them.
Gliding silently through the cloudy water, a massive sea turtle drifted right up to the unsuspecting swimmers, coming within inches of their legs. Yet the family carried on laughing and playing, totally unaware of the gentle giant in their midst.
Someone noticed, though.
From a balcony above, observer Indy Clinton watched the entire scene unfold and captured the surreal moment. To her astonishment, the family never even glanced down.
“The water is really cloudy when you’re in it,” Clinton explained. “So they wouldn’t have been able to see it.”
The enormous turtle — likely a green sea turtle, a species that can reach an incredible 300 pounds — lingered for a moment, curiously observing the humans who had wandered into his path. Then, just as quietly as he arrived, he drifted away again, leaving the swimmers completely clueless about their surprise visitor.
And in this case, that was probably for the best. Hawaiian law prohibits disturbing sea turtles and recommends keeping at least 10 feet of distance. Luckily for everyone involved, the choice to get close belonged entirely to the turtle — a peaceful encounter on his terms alone.
