Sri Lanka is home to five species of sea turtles, and there are several places where you can spot them in the wild or visit conservation centers. Here are the best locations to see, snorkel, or even release baby turtles into the ocean!

How to Protect Sea Turtles

"Sea turtles are a vital part of Sri Lanka’s marine ecosystem, but they face threats from poaching, plastic pollution, fishing nets, and habitat destruction. Here’s how we can help protect them"

Avoid Disturbing Turtles

Do not touch, chase, or ride turtles while snorkeling or diving. Keep a safe distance and let them swim freely. Avoid feeding turtles—it can harm their natural diet.

Support Ethical Turtle Hatcheries & Conservation Centers

Visit ethical hatcheries that focus on rehabilitation and conservation, like: Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project, Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project, Koggala Turtle Hatchery. Avoid hatcheries that keep turtles in small tanks for long periods just for tourist photos.

Reduce Plastic Waste & Ocean Pollution

Say no to plastic bags & bottles—turtles often mistake them for jellyfish. Participate in beach clean-ups to remove plastic and fishing gear. Use reusable bags, straws, and water bottles to reduce plastic waste.

Be a Responsible Tourist

Choose eco-friendly tour operators who follow sustainable snorkeling & diving practices. Avoid hotels and resorts that build too close to nesting beaches. Do not buy turtle shells, eggs, or products made from turtle parts.

Protect Turtle Nesting Beaches

If you visit a nesting site like Rekawa Beach, follow these rules:

✔️ Do not use flash photography or bright lights.

✔️ Stay quiet and low when watching nesting turtles.

✔️ Never touch or remove eggs from the sand.

Spread Awareness

Educate locals and tourists about the importance of turtle conservation. Share information on social media to raise awareness. Support organizations that work to protect marine life in Sri Lanka.

1. Hikkaduwa Beach 🏝️ (Best for Snorkeling with Turtles)

📍 Location – South Coast (Near Galle)

✅ Why Visit?

One of the easiest places to see sea turtles up close

Shallow waters, perfect for snorkeling with turtles

Locals feed turtles near the shore in the mornings

2. Mirissa Beach 🐢 (Best for Snorkeling & Watching Turtles in the Wild)

📍 Location – South Coast (Near Matara)

✅ Why Visit?

Crystal-clear waters for turtle snorkeling

Turtles often swim close to the shore

Ideal for turtle spotting while surfing or paddleboarding

3. Rekawa Turtle Beach 🌙 (Best for Seeing Turtle Nesting at Night)

📍 Location – Near Tangalle, South Coast

✅ Why Visit?

One of Sri Lanka’s top turtle nesting sites

Chance to see mother turtles laying eggs at night

The Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project protects turtles

📌 Best Time to Visit: March to September (turtle nesting season)

4. Pigeon Island National Park 🏝️ (Best for Snorkeling & Diving with Turtles)

📍 Location – East Coast (Near Nilaveli, Trincomalee)

✅ Why Visit?

Learn about turtle conservation & rehabilitation

See rescued turtles & baby hatchlings

Participate in baby turtle release programs

📌 Other Turtle Hatcheries:

Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery (Near Bentota)

Ahungalla Turtle Conservation Center

5. Koggala Turtle Hatchery 🐣 (Best for Baby Turtle Releases)

📍 Location – Near Galle, South Coast

✅ Why Visit?

One of the safest beaches for kids (shallow, calm waters)

Soft sandy bottom with no strong currents

Ideal for paddleboarding & kayaking

6. Nilaveli Beach 🌊 (Best for Spotting Turtles While Swimming)

📍 Location – East Coast

✅ Why Visit?

Calm, clear waters where turtles are often seen

Great for kids & families to watch turtles swimming

Less crowded compared to other beaches

Sea turtles are a vital part of Sri Lanka’s marine ecosystem, but they face threats from poaching, plastic pollution, fishing nets, and habitat destruction.

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