Sea turtle nesting season is officially underway along the Gulf Coast, and Pensacola Beach is celebrating with a free community event focused on one of the area's most iconic summer visitors.

The Sea Turtle Baby Shower takes place Saturday, June 6 from 9:00 AM to noon at the Gulfside Pavilion on Pensacola Beach. Hosted by Gulf Coast Turtle Watch, the family-friendly event will feature educational activities, games, music, and opportunities to learn how residents and visitors can help protect nesting sea turtles throughout the season.

Whether you're a parent looking for a free activity, a beach lover, or simply interested in local wildlife, the event offers a fun way to learn more about sea turtle conservation.

Event Details

What: Sea Turtle Baby Shower

When: Saturday, June 6, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM – Noon

Where: Gulfside Pavilion, Pensacola Beach

Cost: Free

The event is open to all ages and includes activities designed to help visitors better understand the sea turtles that nest along Gulf Coast beaches each summer.

Take the Turtle Oath

One of the featured activities this year is the Turtle Oath sponsored by Island Times.

Beginning at 9:30 AM, guests of all ages can participate in the oath and receive a commemorative charm to take home.

The activity encourages beachgoers to follow simple practices that help protect nesting turtles and hatchlings during the busy summer season.

Sea Turtle Season Has Begun

Sea turtle nesting season generally runs from May through October along Northwest Florida beaches.

Throughout the summer, volunteers with Gulf Coast Turtle Watch monitor nesting activity, protect nests, and educate the public about conservation efforts on Pensacola Beach.

Visitors may notice marked nests, protected dune areas, and increased sea turtle awareness campaigns throughout the season.

Why It Matters

Pensacola Beach serves as important nesting habitat for several sea turtle species, including loggerheads and the endangered Kemp's ridley sea turtle.

Simple actions such as turning off beachfront lights, filling in holes before leaving the beach, and respecting marked nesting areas can help improve nesting success throughout the season.

The Sea Turtle Baby Shower provides an opportunity to learn about those efforts while enjoying a free morning on Pensacola Beach.

Learn More About Sea Turtle Season

Sea turtle nesting season is now underway across Pensacola Beach and the Gulf Coast. Learn how nesting season works, what to do if you encounter a sea turtle, and how you can help protect nests and hatchlings this summer.

Read our complete guide here.