Trinidad & Tobago Sea Turtles
One of the world’s most important leatherback nesting locations, Trinidad offers a near guarantee to witness sea turtles on a beautiful Caribbean beach. Sister island Tobago offers additional nesting beaches within easy reach of some of the best diving in the Caribbean.
With 80 percent of all leatherback nesting in the insular Caribbean, the nesting population on these islands is critical to conservation efforts. Of an estimated 35,000 leatherback females worldwide, as many as 6,000 nest on these beaches.
Our Sea Turtle Partner
Nature Seekers works with more than 50 members of the local community to patrol this key nesting beach. Each year, they protect 3,000 nests on Matura Beach, improving the chance for survival for tens of thousands of hatchlings. Travelers to Matura Beach have the option to stay with a local family to experience authentic local foods and vibrant culture.
Sea Turtle Species
Leatherbacks: Trinidad is one of the top nesting areas in the world. Tobago also has important nesting beaches.
Hawksbills: Tobago has an important population of hawksbills living in its numerous coral reefs.
Greens: Many green turtles inhabit the seagrass beds off of Tobago.
Go SEE Turtles
Earthwatch Volunteer Expeditions to Matura Beach: Price: $2,450 (not including airfare) Various dates from June to November.
Island Hopping with The Pathmaster: Price: $1,675 (not including airfare). Trips are offered in May and June.
If you live on the islands or are already there, here is a good link to find a nesting beach.
Custom tours for your group or family.
Already planning a trip and want free advice on seeing turtles? Contact Us!
How Conservation Tourism Helps
- Tour guiding provides an alternative to illegal harvesting of eggs and turtle meat for sale.
- Building small-scale tourism companies in the islands will build support for efforts to protect important habitat from unsustainable coastal development.
- Income from visits will help to fund important sea turtle research and conservation efforts.
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Feature Sites:
When to SEE Turtles
Leatherbacks: These giant turtles nest from March through July on both islands, though primarily in Trinidad. Beach walks are available at various beaches.
Hawksbills: Found at several of Tobago's coral reefs throughout the year.
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A leatherback returns to the ocean after nesting in the early morning at Grande Riviere beach, Trinidad. |
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A hawksbill turtle explores a coral reef along the coast of Tobago |