Sri Lanka offers heavenly beaches and incredible biodiversity. Among the island’s treasures, Sri Lanka’s turtles fascinate visitors. Observing these creatures in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. But it’s important to know when and where to see them, so as to enjoy them to the full while respecting their environment.
🌍 The Best Places To See Turtles In Sri Lanka
1. Hikkaduwa: The Ideal Spot for Snorkeling with Turtles
Hikkaduwa, located on the southwest coast, stands out as one of the best spots for swimming with turtles. Just a few meters from the beach, green turtles swim peacefully in the shallow waters. They are used to humans, but you should keep your distance and avoid touching them.
👉 Practical tip: Equip yourself with a mask and snorkel to observe the turtles in their natural element. Choose the morning to avoid the crowds.
2. Mirissa: a magical place to dive
Mirissa, famous for whale watching, is also home to some magnificent turtles. Whether scuba diving or snorkeling, it’s not unusual to come across turtles around the coral reefs. The crystal-clear water makes it easy to observe and admire the different species of turtle.
👉 Tip: Book an excursion with a local guide to maximize your chances of seeing turtles.
3. Rekawa: The Turtle Nesting Sanctuary
If you’re dreaming of witnessing turtles laying their eggs, head for Rekawa, east of Tangalle. This protected site is home to several species of turtle that come to lay their eggs on the sand. Every night, volunteers patrol the beaches to prevent poaching.
👉 Unique experience: watch the eggs being laid under the watchful eye of a guide. The spectacle is magical, but strict rules must be observed to avoid disturbing the turtles.
4. Bentota: Watching baby turtles
Bentota is home to several conservation centers that release baby turtles into the ocean. These sanctuaries play a key role in protecting Sri Lanka’s turtles by raising hatchlings until they are strong enough to survive.
👉 Please note: Some centers don’t always follow good practice. Check that they give priority to conservation before visiting them.
🕰️ When is the best time to see turtles in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate, which means turtle watching is possible all year round. But certain periods are more favorable, depending on the activity:
- For snorkeling and diving: From November to April, the water is clearer on the south and west coasts, offering optimal visibility.
- For turtle nesting: From March to July, females come to lay their eggs on beaches such as Rekawa and Kosgoda.
- To see baby turtles hatch: From August to October, the hatchlings emerge from the sand and join the ocean.
💡 How to observe turtles responsibly?
Tourism can impact turtles if certain precautions are not taken. For an ethical and respectful experience, it’s essential to follow these recommendations:
✅ Observe turtles without touching or feeding them.
✅ Avoid camera flash, especially during egg-laying.
✅ Give preference to local guides committed to conservation.
✅ Do not pick up baby turtles, even if they seem vulnerable.
Responsible tourism helps preserve these endangered species while enjoying an exceptional natural spectacle.
✨ My Unforgettable Experience with Turtles in Sri Lanka
During my trip to Sri Lanka, I had the chance to swim with a green turtle in Hikkaduwa. After a few minutes snorkeling, a huge turtle appeared, swimming quietly beside me. Its peaceful gaze and slow movements left me speechless.
Most impressive of all? At one point, it came to the surface to breathe. I was just a few meters away from her, floating in the translucent water, observing every detail of her algae-covered carapace. This moment, suspended in time, will remain engraved in my memory.
A few days later, I witnessed the turtles laying their eggs in Rekawa. Watching a turtle laboriously emerge from the water, dig a nest in the sand and lay its eggs was an overwhelming experience. The silence of the night, interrupted only by the sound of the waves, added to the magic of the moment.
This trip taught me the importance of protecting Sri Lanka’s turtles and the need for respectful tourism. Every encounter with these creatures is a reminder of just how much nature deserves to be preserved.
🏝️ Why Seeing Turtles in Sri Lanka is a Unique Experience?
Turtle-watching in Sri Lanka is much more than a simple tourist activity. It’s a privileged moment with nature, a total immersion in a fragile and fascinating ecosystem.
Whether it’s swimming alongside them, witnessing their egg-laying or admiring the babies returning to the ocean, every moment spent with these majestic creatures leaves a lasting impression.
So, are you ready to set off to meet the turtles of Sri Lanka? 🐢🌊