Florida’s Gulf Coast is not only a destination for sun-seekers and water lovers—it’s also a crucial nesting ground for several species of sea turtles. Each year, from May through October, sea turtle nesting season transforms our beaches into protected habitats where nature quietly carries out one of its most remarkable rituals. At Portofino Island Resort, we’re proud to help preserve this natural wonder and invite our guests to learn how they can take part in the conservation effort. Book your stay in one of our Pensacola Beach resort's upscale condos, and you might be able to catch a glimpse at this natural miracle of life!
The Significance of Sea Turtle Nesting Season
It’s a truly magical season once again along the shimmering shores of Pensacola Beach and the Gulf Islands National Seashore, where sea turtle hatchling season graces the sands with wonder. Each year, beginning in May, Loggerhead, Green, Kemp’s Ridley, and occasionally Leatherback turtles choose these beaches to nest.
Ninety percent of U.S. sea turtle nesting happens right here in Florida. Amid the warm sands that favor the birth of mostly male hatchlings, only the rare and resilient females will return decades later to continue the ancient cycle of life.
The cycle of the sea turtle nesting season in Florida is crucial for the survival of these endangered species and marine ecosystems.
Help Conserve the Baby Sea Turtles in Florida
Watching tiny sea turtle hatchlings emerge from their nests and head toward the moonlit Gulf is breathtaking. However, their journey is fraught with dangers from predators and artificial lights. There are several simple yet impactful ways guests at Portofino Island Resort can contribute to sea turtle conservation during the nesting season:
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Volunteer or Donate: You can get involved with local conservation groups or Gulf Islands National Seashore programs that protect nesting sea turtles along Pensacola Beach and the Florida Coast.
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Never Feed Wild Sea Turtles: Please enjoy watching the baby sea turtles from a respectful distance so you do not disturb these endangered species.
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Leave No Trace: You can do your part to keep the Emerald Coast as beautiful as you found it by removing beach chairs, umbrellas, toys, and boats from the sand every night. Turtles may abandon nesting attempts if obstacles are in their way.
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Smooth the Sand: Before leaving, fill in holes and knock down sandcastles that could trap hatchlings or block mothers trying to reach nesting spots during sea turtle nesting season.
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Minimize Plastic Waste: Help protect the baby sea turtles' home by bringing reusable water bottles, tote bags, and containers during your visit.
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Respect Nesting Areas: It’s important to never touch, disturb, or walk too close to marked sea turtle nests along Pensacola Beach.
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Report Sick or Injured Turtles: If you spot an injured or stranded turtle on Pensacola Beach, contact the National Park Service. But never remove any of the wildlife!
Book your stay at Portofino Island Resort to enjoy the magic of sea turtle nesting season!