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Every year, something truly special happens along the beaches of Fort Lauderdale: sea turtle nesting season. From spring through fall, sea turtles return to Florida’s shores to lay their eggs, continuing a cycle that’s been happening for millions of years.

 

If you’re visiting during the spring, summer, or early fall, experiencing this natural phenomenon is something you won’t want to miss. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about sea turtle nesting season in Fort Lauderdale from where it happens to how to get involved.

What is sea turtle nesting season?

You may have heard about it before— but what, exactly, is sea turtle nesting season and why is it so important?

 

Sea turtle nesting season is the time of year when female sea turtles return to the beach to lay their eggs. At night, they come ashore, dig a nest in the sand, and carefully cover their eggs before heading back to the ocean.

 

Florida is home to several species of sea turtles, including loggerhead, green, and leatherback turtles. Each species plays an important role in the marine ecosystem, making their nesting season a vital part of protecting ocean life. 

 

Once the eggs are laid, it takes about two months for the baby turtles, called hatchlings, to emerge. After hatching, they face a tough journey as they make their way from the nest to the water—avoiding predators, obstacles, and artificial lights that can lead them away from the ocean.

 

Sadly, only about 1 in 1,000 hatchlings survive to adulthood. Because of the many challenges these tiny turtles face, eastern Florida has become a hub for conservation groups and education programs dedicated to protecting them. Every protected nest, every turned-off light, and every cleared path plays a role in helping hatchlings reach the ocean safely. 

 

For many visitors, seeing a sea turtle nest—or even spotting a mother turtle laying her eggs—is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But it’s also a time when these animals need extra care and protection.

When is turtle nesting season in Fort Lauderdale?

In Fort Lauderdale, sea turtle nesting season runs from March 1 through October 31. During this time, female turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, and later in the season, the baby turtles begin making their way to the sea.

 

The peak months for nesting are usually May through July, but nests can be found throughout the entire season. 

 

If you’re visiting during these months, it’s a great time to learn more about sea turtles and even catch a glimpse of their nesting process—just remember to follow local guidelines to avoid disturbing them!

How and where can you see sea turtles in Fort Lauderdale?

If you’re hoping to see sea turtles in Fort Lauderdale, the best way to do so is to join a guided turtle walk. These tours, led by trained experts, give you the chance to observe a nesting turtle safely and respectfully. Organizations like the Museum of Discovery and Science and Mitzell-Eula Johnson State Park often offer guided walks during nesting season.

 

You can learn more about the Museum of Discovery and Science’s programs here and Mitzell-Eula Johnson State Park’s programs here.

 

In late summer and early fall, some groups also hold hatchling releases, where visitors can watch newly hatched baby turtles make their way to the sea. These special events offer an unforgettable look at the start of a sea turtle’s journey.

 

Whether you’re interested in a nighttime turtle walk or a daytime hatchling release, it’s best to book in advance since spots often fill up quickly during peak season.

How can visitors protect turtles during nesting season?

Visiting during sea turtle nesting season is exciting, but it also comes with responsibility. Luckily, there are simple ways you can help keep sea turtles safe while you enjoy the beach:

 

• Turn off lights at night: Bright lights from buildings, balconies, or flashlights can disorient nesting turtles and hatchlings. If you’re staying near the beach, use turtle-safe lighting or keep lights off when possible.
• Fill in holes and flatten sandcastles: Before you leave the beach, fill any holes and smooth out sandcastles so turtles don’t get trapped or blocked on their way to or from the ocean.
• Keep the beach clean: Trash, especially plastic, can harm sea turtles. Always throw away or recycle your waste and pick up any litter you see.
• Stay back and stay quiet: If you see a nesting turtle or hatchlings, keep a safe distance and avoid loud noises or sudden movements.
• Don’t use flash photography or flashlights: Artificial light can confuse turtles. If you’re on a guided walk, follow your guide’s instructions for safe lighting.
• Never touch a turtle or nest: It’s important to let nature take its course. Interfering can harm the turtles or violate local laws. 

By following these simple steps, you’re helping give sea turtles a better chance to survive and thrive.

Sea Turtle Conservation in Fort Lauderdale

Want to do more than a turtle walk? Fort Lauderdale is home to several conservation groups and centers working year-round to protect sea turtles and their habitats. Visitors and locals alike can get involved through tours, volunteer opportunities, or donations.

Here are a few great organizations to check out:

• Sea Turtle Oversight Protection (STOP): This conservation group focuses on monitoring hatchlings and reducing the impact of artificial lighting on baby sea turtles. They offer educational, guided turtle walks during nesting season.
• Museum of Discovery and Science: In addition to turtle walks, this museum has a permanent Florida Ecoscapes exhibit that teaches visitors about plants and animals native to the region— including sea turtles.
• Gumbo Limbo Nature Center (about 30 minutes north in Boca Raton): Known for its sea turtle rehabilitation facility, Gumbo Limbo rescues and treats injured sea turtles. Visitors can tour the center, learn about sea turtle care, and see turtles recovering in their outdoor tanks.

If you can’t visit during nesting season, these organizations and more offer ways to help year-round like adopting a sea turtle, attending a fundraiser, or volunteering at a cleanup event. Every effort helps support sea turtles and keeps their habitats safe for generations to come.

Experience Sea Turtle Nesting in Fort Lauderdale

Staying at Yacht Haven Park & Marina puts you close to some of the best spots to witness sea turtle nesting season in Fort Lauderdale. With the beach just a short drive away, it’s easy to plan an evening turtle walk or catch a hatchling release during your stay.

 

Guests can also support sea turtle conservation simply by following a few eco-friendly habits while enjoying the resort: keeping balcony lights low at night, disposing of trash properly, and spreading the word about protecting these amazing creatures.

 

Need ideas for where to go? Our staff can point you toward local tours, educational centers, and family-friendly spots where you can learn more about sea turtles and marine life. At Yacht Haven, you’ll enjoy upscale RV accommodations and waterfront views all while staying connected to Florida’s natural beauty.