One of the main attractions for tourists coming to Sri Lanka is the plenty of great spots around the island where you can catch a glimpse of the turtles. Here’s our ultimate guide on where to see turtles in Sri Lanka.
Going turtle spotting in Sri Lanka is a fantastic activity for all ages and one of the best things to do along the island’s breathtaking coast. In this article, we will reveal where to see the turtles in Sri Lanka, with five unmissable spots you need to check out.
Out of the seven major species of turtles, five make their home in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is a tropical island in the Indian Ocean. So, it really is one of the best places in the world to get up close and personal with these incredible creatures.
The most commonly spotted turtles are the Olive Ridley Turtle and the Green Turtle, but you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of various other amazing sea turtle species.
Are you curious to learn more? Read on to discover where to see turtles in Sri Lanka.
5. Bentota Turtle Hatchery, Bentota – a fantastic initiative to protect baby turtles
Kicking off our list of places to see turtles in Sri Lanka is the fantastic Bentota Turtle Hatchery. This magnificent spot is located along the country’s west coast. The breathtaking beach here is home to pristine golden sands and clear blue waters that look like something straight out of a guidebook.
A nesting ground for several endangered turtle species, including the Olive Ridley and the Leatherback turtle, the project aims to conserve and protect the eggs from predators and other dangers, offering them the best chance of survival.
You can visit this fantastic project to see these amazing animals in all their glory and learn all about the species and conservation efforts going on here.
Address: Sea Turtle Project, 92X4+25W, Bentota
4. Kosgoda Beach, Galle – another fantastic turtle conservation project
Located close to the beautiful Dutch town of Galle, Kosgoda Beach is another spot to add to your Sri Lanka bucket list if you want to see some turtles. Home to the fantastic Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project, this pioneering sea turtle conservation project should not be missed.
Moreover, it is operated by locals with the help of international volunteers, and this project was founded by local man Dudley Perera all the way back in 1988. They aim to monitor local sea turtle activity and conserve the local nesting sites while also making the public aware of these incredible creatures.
In addition, the project aims to create a safe space for the turtle eggs to hatch away from predators, so they can then be released into the sea.
Address: No. 13/A, Galle Road, Mahapalena, Kosgoda 80570
3. Turtle Beach, Mirissa – one of the best places to see turtles in Sri Lanka
One of the top tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, Mirissa is located on the island’s southwest coast and boasts a beautiful beach and plenty of great shops and restaurants.
Turtle Beach is hidden away from the main road by a few local eateries and swaying coconut trees, making it the perfect peaceful location to grab a snorkel and head out into the water in the hopes of seeing some turtles. You can visit the place with your partner for an unforgettable experience.
As home to clear blue waters and golden sand, Mirissa’s Turtle Beach is one of the top spots where native turtles come on shore to nest.
For your best chance of catching a glimpse of these majestic creatures here, we recommend visiting between January and April. These are the months just after the nesting season.
You might even be lucky enough to witness some teeny tiny baby turtles making their way along the sand towards the ocean.
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Address: WFR8+J7R, Mirissa
2. Pigeon Island, Trincomalee – a small island with some incredible wildlife
Located just off the coast of Trincomalee on the east of the island, Pigeon Island Marine National Park is another fantastic place to spot turtles. Hawksbill turtles, green turtles, and olive ridley turtles have been known to visit the island’s coral reef.
To visit, you will need to catch a boat from Nilaveli Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. Whether or not you end up seeing some turtles, a trip to Pigeon Island is more than worth it, with beautiful white sands, surrounded by crystalline waters, and home to an abundance of incredible native wildlife.
Address: Pigeon Island Marine National Park
1. Rekawa Beach, Rekawa – one of our favourite places to see turtles up close
Located on the island’s south coast, not far from the town of Tangalle, Rekawa Beach is undoubtedly among the best places to see turtles in Sri Lanka.
Home to the fantastic Turtle Watch Rekawa, which aims for a balanced approach to the protection of turtles, community development, and eco-tourism, you’re almost guaranteed to see turtles here.
So, aside from that, Rekawa Beach is undoubtedly among the most beautiful beaches on the island. It’s also a great place to catch the sunset.
Address: Rekawa Road, Rekawa 82200
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