Sea Turtle Season on Pensacola Beach: Everything You Need to Know
From May 1 through November 1, something magical happens along the shores of Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach—sea turtle nesting season. During these months, Loggerhead, Green, and Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtles return to the Gulf Coast to lay their eggs in the soft white sand. If you time it right, you just might catch a glimpse of a nesting turtle or a wave of hatchlings making their journey to the ocean under the stars.
When and Where to Spot Sea Turtles on the Gulf Coast
Sea turtle activity peaks from late May through August, with July and August offering the best chance to witness hatchlings under the moonlight. While you can see sea turtles in Pensacola, Navarre Beach is the premier spot thanks to its quieter shores and active conservation efforts. Evening walks during turtle season—especially on darker, less crowded nights—can bring unforgettable encounters.
Visitors often ask: Can you see sea turtles in Pensacola, Florida? Yes—but your best bet is to go just east to Navarre. And if you're wondering what month is best to see sea turtles, July is your golden window.
Why Beach Lighting Matters: Go Red or Go Dark
One of the biggest threats to nesting turtles and hatchlings is artificial light. White lights from homes, phones, and flashlights can disorient turtles, leading them away from the water and putting them at risk. That’s why it’s critical to switch to red lights, which are turtle-safe and help them stay on course.
You can pick up free red light filters at the Pensacola Beach Visitors Center, helping you enjoy evening beach strolls without disturbing nesting turtles. If you're staying along the beach, remember:
Turn off porch and balcony lights
Close blinds and curtains after sunset
Avoid floodlights and white flashlights
Set your phone flashlight to red or leave it off
Keep the Beach Turtle-Friendly: Your Actions Matter
Each night, nesting turtles need a clear path from the dunes to the surf—and hatchlings need the same on their way to the water. Small actions by beachgoers make a huge impact on sea turtle survival. Be sure to:
Fill in holes left in the sand
Remove beach gear like chairs, umbrellas, and toys each night
Knock down sandcastles before leaving
Keep noise levels down after dark
This practice of “Leave Only Footprints” ensures turtles don’t face dangerous obstacles during this critical time of year.
Dive Deeper at the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center
For a deeper look into turtle conservation, head to the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center. This local gem is home to Sweet Pea, a green sea turtle that cannot return to the wild, and features interactive exhibits that explore marine life, nesting cycles, and environmental threats.
Support the Cause: Free Stickers, Real Impact
To raise awareness and support for sea turtle conservation, Must Do Pensacola is offering free stickers. These Gulf Coast designs are available at no cost at local businesses—though a donation is encouraged. Money raised goes directly to the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center to support their efforts in protecting turtles and their habitat.
Whether you're a local beachgoer or a vacationing visitor, your awareness and small actions make a massive difference. Let's keep Pensacola’s beaches a safe haven for these amazing creatures.
