Sea Turtle Seasons: How to Witness Florida’s Iconic Hatchlings
Florida’s beaches are some of the most important nesting sites for sea turtles in the world. Every year, from March to October, thousands of sea turtles return to Florida’s shores to lay their eggs, with hatchlings emerging from June through November. Witnessing these tiny creatures make their way to the ocean is an unforgettable experience, but it’s essential to do so responsibly.
This guide will help you find the best places in Florida to see sea turtles nest and hatch, provide insights into the different sea turtle species, and offer tips on how to observe these magical moments without disturbing the turtles.
Understanding Florida’s Sea Turtle Species
Florida is home to five sea turtle species, each with its own nesting patterns:
1. Loggerhead Sea Turtles
Most common nesting sea turtle in Florida.
Nesting season: May to August.
Hatchlings emerge: Late July through October.
Best viewing spots: Juno Beach, Vero Beach, and Melbourne Beach.
2. Green Sea Turtles
Less common, but still a significant population in Florida.
Nesting season: June to September.
Hatchlings emerge: August to November.
Best viewing spots: Canaveral National Seashore, Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge.
3. Leatherback Sea Turtles
Largest sea turtle species, sometimes growing up to 8 feet long.
Nesting season: March to June.
Hatchlings emerge: May through September.
Best viewing spots: Juno Beach, Fort Lauderdale Beach, and Boca Raton.
4. Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtles
Rarest sea turtle species in Florida.
Nesting season: April to July.
Hatchlings emerge: June through September.
Best viewing spots: Panhandle beaches, especially near St. Joseph Peninsula State Park.
5. Hawksbill Sea Turtles
Rarely nests in Florida, mostly seen in the Florida Keys.
Nesting season: April to November.
Hatchlings emerge: June through December.
Best viewing spots: Florida Keys, Dry Tortugas National Park.
Best Places to See Sea Turtle Nesting and Hatchlings in Florida
1. Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge (Melbourne Beach)
One of the most important sea turtle nesting areas in the world, Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge protects 20 miles of coastline between Melbourne Beach and Wabasso Beach.
Best time to visit: June through August.
Guided tours: The Sea Turtle Conservancy offers nighttime turtle walks (Learn more here).
Where to stay: Sea View Inn – an oceanfront eco-friendly hotel.
Where to eat: Bunky's Raw Bar & Seafood Grill – casual seafood dining.
2. Juno Beach and Loggerhead Marinelife Center
Juno Beach is one of Florida’s top nesting beaches for loggerhead sea turtles.
Best time to visit: May to October.
Guided tours: Loggerhead Marinelife Center offers nighttime turtle walks and hatchling releases.
Where to stay: Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa – family-friendly with beachfront access.
Where to eat: Guanabanas – waterfront dining with fresh seafood.
3. Canaveral National Seashore
With its pristine, undeveloped beaches, Canaveral National Seashore is one of Florida’s best spots to see nesting turtles.
Best time to visit: May through September.
Guided tours: The Canaveral Seashore Turtle Watch Program offers small group tours (Check availability here).
Where to stay: Black Dolphin Inn – a charming B&B in New Smyrna Beach.
Where to eat: JB's Fish Camp – laid-back seafood with river views.
4. Fort Lauderdale Beach and Sea Turtle Oversight Protection
For a more urban turtle-watching experience, Fort Lauderdale Beach offers a surprising amount of nesting activity.
Best time to visit: March through October.
Guided tours: Sea Turtle Oversight Protection offers hatchling releases and nighttime educational walks.
Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale – beachfront luxury with eco-friendly programs.
Where to eat: Coconuts – famous for its fresh seafood and family-friendly vibe.
5. Florida Keys and Dry Tortugas National Park
The Florida Keys provide nesting areas for the rare hawksbill sea turtle, as well as green and loggerhead turtles.
Best time to visit: April through October.
Guided tours: Turtle Hospital in Marathon (Visit here) offers educational programs and rehab visits.
Where to stay: Tranquility Bay Beach House Resort – ideal for families and nature lovers.
Where to eat: Keys Fisheries – great for fresh seafood and a casual setting.
How to Respectfully Witness Sea Turtles in Florida
To ensure the survival of these endangered creatures, it’s important to follow these guidelines when observing sea turtles:
✅ Use Red Lights Only – White flashlights and camera flashes can disorient hatchlings. Use a turtle-safe red flashlight.
✅ Stay Quiet and Keep Your Distance – Never approach a nesting turtle; remain at least 10 feet away.
✅ Avoid Flash Photography – Bright lights can cause mother turtles to abandon their nesting attempts.
✅ Fill in Holes and Remove Beach Furniture – Holes, sandcastles, and obstacles can block hatchlings' paths to the ocean.
✅ Respect the Law – Many beaches have strict "Lights Out" ordinances to prevent light pollution from confusing hatchlings.
✅ Join a Guided Turtle Walk – The best way to safely witness nesting is by joining an official turtle walk or hatchling release.
Final Thoughts
Seeing Florida’s sea turtles hatch and make their way to the ocean is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. By choosing the right places and following responsible viewing guidelines, you can witness this breathtaking event while ensuring the protection of these endangered species. Whether you visit the remote beaches of Canaveral, the educational centers in Juno Beach, or the pristine shores of the Florida Keys, there are plenty of opportunities to witness sea turtles up close in a safe and eco-friendly way.
Plan your visit to one of these top sea turtle nesting locations and make unforgettable memories while helping to protect Florida’s most iconic marine creatures! 🌊🐢