Where Can You Best Spot Turtles on Florida’s Space Coast?

Have a turtle lover in the family? Head to Florida’s Space Coast before the end of the season. Every late summer, family travelers from all over head to the Space Coast to witness one of nature’s most incredible wildlife displays — endangered sea turtle hatchlings emerging from their nests and making their way to the Atlantic Ocean.

Space Coast is home to loggerhead, green and leatherback sea turtles. The destination also offers plenty of chances to learn about the ongoing conservation efforts protecting these endangered species and their fragile coastal habitats.

Experience sea turtle season at nesting beaches like Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, Canaveral National Seashore, Playalinda Beach and Jetty Park. Visit during the early morning to see fresh turtle tracks and newly hatched nests. Remember to be patient as they wait for the hatchlings to make their way toward the ocean.

Conservation also plays an important role in the tourism draw of the phenomenon. Organizations work year-round to monitor nesting activity, protect vulnerable nest sites and help injured sea turtles. Brevard Zoo is home to the Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center, where sick and injured sea turtles are rehabilitated before returning to the wild. The center also works to educate visitors about the importance of protecting local marine ecosystems.

You can help protect nesting turtles and hatchlings by keeping beaches clean and flat, removing trash and beach equipment, filling in holes, avoiding using bright lights at night, and giving nests plenty of space.