Sea Turtle Nesting Season on the Space Coast: What You Need to Know When Visiting

If you’re visiting Florida’s Space Coast between March and October, you’re sharing the beaches with some very special guests—sea turtles! Every year, thousands of these ancient mariners return to our shores to nest, making the Space Coast one of the most significant sea turtle nesting areas in the world.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a beachgoer, or just someone who loves wildlife, here’s what you need to know (and how to help) during sea turtle nesting season.

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Who’s Nesting?

The Space Coast is home to three primary sea turtle species during nesting season:

• Loggerheads – The most common nesters here, recognized by their large heads.
• Green Sea Turtles – Known for their beautiful shells and mostly herbivorous diets.
• Leatherbacks – The giants of the sea turtle world, these can weigh over 1,000 pounds!

These turtles emerge from the ocean at night, dig nests in the sand, and lay dozens—sometimes over 100—eggs in a single nest. After about two months, tiny hatchlings break free and scramble to the sea.

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How to Be a Turtle-Friendly Visitor

If you’re enjoying the beaches during nesting season, here’s how you can help protect these incredible creatures:

1. Keep Beaches Clean & Clear

• Remove chairs, tents, and trash at the end of the day—obstacles can trap turtles or block hatchlings.
• Fill in any holes in the sand that could become traps for turtles.

2. Respect the Darkness

• Avoid using flashlights or phone lights on the beach at night. Artificial light can confuse nesting mothers and hatchlings, leading them away from the ocean.
• Choose accommodations that use turtle-friendly lighting or keep blinds closed at night to reduce light pollution.

3. Observe from a Distance
   If you’re lucky enough to see a nesting turtle or hatchlings, watch quietly from afar. Avoid touching, shining lights, or taking flash photos.
4. Join a Guided Turtle Walk
   Local organizations like the Sea Turtle Preservation Society offer guided turtle walks where you can observe nesting turtles responsibly with expert guides. It’s educational, unforgettable, and a great way to support conservation efforts.

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Cruise Cocoa’s Connection to the Coast

Here at Cruise Cocoa, we love sharing the beauty of the Space Coast’s diverse wildlife—from dolphins and manatees on our sightseeing tours to the seasonal magic of sea turtle nesting. While our tours explore the waterways, we always encourage guests to respect and appreciate the coastal ecosystem both on and off the boat.

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When You Visit, You’re Part of the Story

Every visitor plays a role in protecting Florida’s sea turtles. By following these simple guidelines, you’re helping to ensure that these magnificent creatures continue returning to our beaches for generations to come.

If you’re planning your Space Coast adventure, combine a Cruise Cocoa tour with an evening beach visit—you might just witness nature’s most amazing journey from the sand to the sea!

Book your Cruise Cocoa experience today and celebrate the wonder of Florida’s marine life up close!