Well, if you want the sun totally behind you I would get there between 10am and 1pm. That way the sun is shining on the waves and brightens things up a bit for photos.

Sorry, we were there only briefly—just to see the green sea turtles so I did not use any of their restrooms or bathroom facilities.

Turtles are there all day long. They haul out onto the beach to rest. If you don’t see them, take another look at the boulders strewn all over- those are turtles!

Yes, there are portable toilets and permanent ones available for the public

You could swim here. There were people snorkeling when we went but you will need to be a pretty strong swimmer.

the weather doesn't matter to see turtles. It 's a lucky shot to see turtles in the water or on the beach.

As many have stated it would seem that dusk (just prior to sunset) seems to be when you are most likely to see turtles in great numbers. However, I think that there are some on the beach at any time during the day.

Delayed answer. The surfing app question has been answered quite well. Surfers are there whenever the wind is blowing, which is all of the time. This is one of the VERY best wind surfing beaches in the world. The greatest number of surfers will be found on the weekends, of course. Many live in Paia. I once met an Arab prince, complete with his body guards, while using the facilities there. He was there for the wind suring & was actually quite good. He spoke, dressed & smelled like most surfers.