Sea turtles play in an integral role in balancing marine habitats. For over 200 years their survival has been challenged by factors like human encroachment, habitat destruction, and climate change—and most sea turtle species are now considered endangered. Below are four resorts around the world that offer guests an up-close look at sea turtles, while helping them build their population back.
Belmond La Samanna
St. Martin
On the French side of the island, Baie Longue beach is home to not only Belmond La Samanna, but also a community of sea turtles. The property partnered up with the nonprofit organization Sea Shepherd to protect the land and the turtles that reside there. Beginning in April 2021, private groups will have the chance to join a guide after nightfall to spot the turtles in their habitat—and just might witness the babies hatch and begin their journey out to sea.
GoldenEye
Jamaica
Guests staying at GoldenEye in the fall have the rare opportunity to witness sea turtle nesting and hatching at the neighboring Golden Sea Beach. Sea turtle lovers can meet with Mel Tennant, local sea turtle expert known as the “turtle whisper,” to observe the sea turtles in their natural habitat and learn the procedures to releasing turtle nests and reclaiming their habitat. In recent years, more than 13,450 sea turtles hatched on Golden Sea Beach—a 3,745% increase in hatchings since the program launched in 2005.
andBeyond Mnemba Island
Zanzibar
At andBeyond Mnemba Island off the coast of Zanzibar, Green Turtle nesting season is year-round, peaking in February and March. The turtles lay their eggs on the beach and in September and October, baby turtles emerge into the world. With only 12 thatched roof bandas on the island, guests can watch the tiny hatchlings make their descent into to the water without a crowd.
Belmond Jimbaran Puri
Bali
Here, nature lovers can adopt, name, and release a baby sea turtle. Belmond Jimbaran Puri can arrange visits to the Turtle Conservation and Education Centre in Serangan to learn more about the protection of sea turtles, with an opportunity to join a sunset cruise to personally give the newly hatched babies a helping hand into the sea.