Magical Turtle Encounters

When you think about Sri Lanka, what comes to mind? For many travelers, images of pristine beaches, lush national parks, and majestic wildlife like elephants and leopards are often the first to spring to mind. However, one unique activity you might not immediately consider is turtle watching—but it's a surprisingly wonderful and rewarding experience for visitors of all ages, especially families traveling with children.

In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the best places in Sri Lanka where you can enjoy observing sea turtles, including important conservation efforts to protect them. From feeding them on the beach to watching hatchlings make their way to the ocean, there’s something truly magical about seeing these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

Let’s dive in!

Best Places to See Turtles in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is home to five species of sea turtles, each with its unique charm. These include the Olive Ridley Turtle, Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Loggerhead Turtle, and Leatherback Turtle. The chances of spotting each species vary depending on where you go, so let’s explore the best locations for turtle watching.

1. Turtle Beach, Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa is a well-known coastal town famous for its golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. Among its many attractions, Turtle Beach stands out as an exceptional spot to observe sea turtles in action.

Perhaps one of the most unique features of Turtle Beach is the opportunity to feed turtles—something that most people wouldn't expect during a beach visit. While this might seem unusual, feeding turtles can be an unforgettable experience, especially for children. All you need to do is pick up some seaweed or kelp from the shore, hold it out, and wait for a turtle to come and nibble it from your hands. It’s a wonderful, interactive way to learn about these magnificent creatures.

The turtles here visit the shore regularly, so you don’t need to wait for the right moment. Morning hours are usually quieter, with fewer tourists, making it a more peaceful time to enjoy the turtles.

2. Rekawa Beach

While Hikkaduwa is bustling with tourists, Rekawa Beach offers a more peaceful and intimate turtle-watching experience. Located in a small fishing village, Rekawa is renowned for being a nesting ground for female turtles. One of the most fascinating aspects of sea turtles is their natal homing instinct: the females will return to the same beach where they were born to lay their eggs, a process that happens over a span of several decades.

The highlight of visiting Rekawa is the turtle watch evenings. Conducted by the Rekawa Turtle Watch conservation project, these evening excursions allow you to witness the awe-inspiring sight of female turtles coming ashore to nest. This is not a quick activity—turtle watching at Rekawa requires patience. The turtles often take a while to dig their nests and lay their eggs, and the process can last until early morning.

If you’re planning to visit, aim to go between April and July, when the chances of spotting turtles are the highest. During this period, you’re more likely to see multiple turtles laying eggs. The second-best time is from October to January, though sightings may be less frequent.

3. Pigeon Island

For those who prefer a more adventurous experience, Pigeon Island is the perfect destination. This marine national park is one of Sri Lanka’s premier snorkeling spots and is home to a rich variety of marine life, including turtles. Snorkeling here offers a fantastic opportunity to swim alongside Hawksbill, Olive Ridley, and Green Turtles as they glide through the crystal-clear waters.

In addition to turtles, you can expect to see colorful coral reefs, shoals of tropical fish, and even blacktip reef sharks. To reach Pigeon Island, you’ll need to take a speedboat from Nilaveli Beach—a quick 20-minute ride that leads you to this serene, pristine destination.

The best time to visit Pigeon Island for snorkeling is from May to October, with early mornings being ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy smooth waters.

4. Turtle Hatcheries

A visit to a turtle hatchery is another excellent way to contribute to the conservation of sea turtles. In Sri Lanka, turtle hatcheries play a vital role in protecting turtle eggs from predators and poachers. Once the eggs are collected, they are carefully relocated to a safe area where they can hatch without interference. The hatchlings are then kept in tanks until they are strong enough to be released into the wild.

While it may not be as exciting as snorkeling with turtles, visiting a hatchery offers valuable insights into the conservation efforts aimed at protecting these endangered creatures. Many hatcheries in Sri Lanka also allow visitors to participate in releasing baby turtles into the ocean—a magical experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Popular hatcheries are located in Kosgoda, Hikkaduwa, and Galle, with Kosgoda being particularly well-known for its conservation efforts. If you happen to visit any of these regions, make sure to schedule a visit to a hatchery, especially in the late afternoon, as hatchlings are typically released around 6:00 pm.

Best Time to See Turtles in Sri Lanka

The timing of your turtle-watching excursion is crucial to ensuring a memorable experience. The best time to observe turtles depends largely on the location you choose.

• For Rekawa Beach, plan your visit between April and July when the nesting season is at its peak.

• If you’re heading to Pigeon Island for snorkeling, the period from May to October offers the most favorable conditions for spotting turtles.

However, for feeding turtles or visiting a turtle hatchery, these activities are available year-round, making them great options for any time of year.

Responsible Turtle Watching: Tips for a Safe and Respectful Experience

While turtle watching is an exciting and educational experience, it’s important to approach these creatures with care and respect. Here are a few tips to ensure that your turtle-watching experience is responsible:

1. Do Not Touch the Turtles: It might be tempting to pet a turtle, but it’s crucial to avoid contact. Touching them can transfer harmful chemicals, such as sunscreen, to their delicate skin.

2. Avoid Flash Photography: Bright lights can disturb the turtles, especially during their nesting process. Avoid using flash photography or bright torches, as it may disorient them and interfere with their natural behavior.

3. Pick Up Your Litter: Marine animals, including turtles, often mistake plastic waste for food, which can harm them. Always dispose of waste properly and avoid leaving trash on beaches.

4. Follow Your Guide’s Instructions: Trained conservationists and tour guides know the best ways to observe turtles without disturbing them. Always listen to their instructions to minimize your impact.

Conclusion

Sri Lanka’s beaches and coastal areas are a paradise for turtle enthusiasts, offering a variety of ways to interact with these remarkable creatures. Whether you're feeding turtles at Turtle Beach, watching them nest at Rekawa Beach, snorkeling in the clear waters of Pigeon Island, or visiting a turtle hatchery, you’ll be part of a growing effort to protect and preserve these endangered species.

If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to include a turtle-watching excursion in your itinerary. It’s an experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for these incredible creatures.

If you have any further questions or want advice on planning your turtle-watching trip in Sri Lanka, feel free to drop a message. I’d be happy to help you create a memorable and meaningful experience.

Happy travels and responsible turtle watching!