Lights Out Sea Turtles Dig the Dark / May 1st – October 31st
Each year from May to October, Laguna Beach transforms into an essential nesting ground for sea turtles. While many turtle species remain endangered, ongoing conservation efforts have helped Loggerhead and Green Turtle populations make encouraging progress. The dedication of local residents, visitors, and conservation groups plays a major role in protecting these remarkable animals as they return to the beach to lay their eggs. During nesting season, we all share the responsibility of keeping them safe. Here’s how you can help:
Turtle & Bird Nesting on the Beach
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission / 850-248-8290
Sea turtles depend on the moonlight and natural reflections to find their way across the sand. Artificial lights—whether from buildings, flashlights, or phone screens—can confuse them and lead them away from the water.
You can make a difference by:
Turning off or dimming lights that face the beach.
Closing blinds or curtains in oceanfront rooms.
Avoiding flashlights and bright screens at night.
Giving nesting turtles plenty of space—at least 50 feet—and never shining lights directly at them.
A clear beach is crucial for both nesting females and newly hatched turtles trying to reach the ocean.
Help keep the shoreline safe by:
Smoothing out holes and dismantling sandcastles before leaving.
Bringing in all beach chairs, umbrellas, toys, and other items before dark.
Throwing away all trash and food scraps so predators aren’t attracted to the area.
Loggerhead turtles arrive on Florida’s coastline each spring, and trained volunteer groups survey the beach every morning to identify and protect new nests.
If you come across a nesting turtle or hatchlings:
Do not approach, touch, or interfere with them.
Contact local authorities or call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922.
Allow hatchlings to move toward the water on their own.
Sand dunes act as natural protection and often serve as important nesting habitat.
Support dune preservation by:
Using marked walkovers and beach access points.
Avoiding walking on dunes or placing items on them.
The local community works hand-in-hand with conservation organizations to support sea turtle recovery. Efforts include:
Nest Monitoring: Volunteers walk the shoreline daily during nesting season, marking and safeguarding nests until they hatch.
Lighting Guidelines: To reduce disorientation, residents and businesses are encouraged to limit or modify exterior lighting. Local initiatives like “Lights Out for Turtles” help reduce light pollution.
Public Awareness: Educational programs, signage, and outreach efforts help visitors understand the importance of protecting sea turtles and their habitat.
For more resources on how to get involved, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Nesting season in Laguna Beach is a truly magical time. Watching these ancient creatures return to our shores is a rare and memorable experience. By following simple guidelines and respecting their habitat, you can help ensure sea turtles continue this incredible journey for generations to come.
Plan your visit and experience firsthand the beauty of sea turtle conservation along our stunning Gulf Coast.