US Turtle Sites

Don't want to travel overseas? Check out these places closer to home.

There are many great places to see and learn about sea turtles in the United States.  Choose from nesting beach walks, rehabilitation centers and hospitals, or aquaria with strong conservation programs. 

CALIFORNIA

San Diego: Ocean Connectors

Pro Peninsula’s environmental education program that uses migratory marine species to teach students in San Diego and Mexico important lessons in ocean conservation, global awareness, and marine science. Ocean Connectors meets state standards for the 4th – 6th grades while demonstrating the practical application of science.

San Francisco: California Academy of Sciences

While the Academy doesn't currently have a live sea turtle, there is a wealth of information on all kinds of ocean life.  The Academy has a long history of sea turtle research, including studies done with our co-founder Dr. Wallace J. Nichols. 

FLORIDA

Boca Raton: Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

Gumbo Limbo has several turtles on display and participates in rehabilitation and nesting beach protection programs. Small donation to enter, open year round.

Brevard County: Sea Turtle Preservation Society

Tours to various area nesting beaches in June and July, donations requested. The Society also has volunteer opportunities and educational presentations.

Juno Beach: Loggerhead Marine Life Center

The Center rehabilitates injured and sick sea turtles, has educational exhibits, and for a small fee offers nesting beach walks in June and July and facility tours year round. Entrance is free and the Center is open year round.

GEORGIA

Jekyll Island: Georgia Sea Turtle Center

The Center is a working sea turtle hospital. We offer seasonal Nesting and Hatchling Walks (June-July and August-September, respectively), educational exhibits, programs and events, and guests are able to view the rehabilitation of injured and sick patients. The Center has a small charge for admission and is open year round.

HAWAII

Oahu: Laniakea Beach

A beach that is free and open to the public. One of the few places in the world where turtles bask during the day, though be careful to keep your distance and follow local regulations.

SOUTH CAROLINA

Charleston: South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium (open year round, admission is charged) is involved in sea turtle conservation through exhibitry, daily programs, and a sea turtle rehabilitation hospital. Take a behind-the-scenes tour (includes an extra cost) of the Turtle Hospital to have unique, close encounters with up to three species that are recuperating from injuries and illnesses.