Group of people watch as hatchlings emerge from their nest

Turtle Season in Aruba

The nesting season runs from March through September.

Hatching takes place from May to November.

Incubation takes approximately 60 to 70 days.

Look for the nesting barricades and please do not allow pets or children to go into them.

TurtugAruba barricades around a nest
TurtugAruba barricades around a nest.

Did You Know…

  • Sea Turtles return to their natal beach in order to nest.
  • Sea Turtles use the earth’s magnetic field to guide them on their long journeys at sea.
  • Sea Turtles do not nest every year, but rather every 2-5 years.
  • The Leatherback Sea Turtles of Aruba lay about 115 eggs a clutch.
  • The Leatherback female will nest 6 – 8 times a season.
  • It is estimated that only 1 in 1000 hatchlings survives to maturity.
  • All species of sea turtles are endangered and need our protection.

Can You Notify Me So I Can See the Hatchlings?

  • Hatching takes place from May to November.
  • Incubation takes approximately 60 to 70 days.
  • There is no precise way to know when the hatching will occur during the ten-day window.
  • We do not make any announcements as to the days and locations in order to not draw crowds around the nests.
  • Some nests have the nesting date marked on them so you will have an idea of when they are due.
  • You may occasionally see our volunteers around checking the nesting sites. Say hello.
  • Most often the hatching occurs at night.
  • Ask at your hotel desk if they have a call list for when a local nest hatches.
  • Please do not email us to be alerted as we do not have a list for this purpose.

What To Do If You See A Sea Turtle Nesting

If you see a sea turtle nesting on the beach, it’s important to respect the animal and help protect it. Here’s a list of what to do and not do:

  • Keep your distance – Stay at least 30 feet (10 meters) away.
  • Stay quiet – Speak softly and avoid sudden movements.
  • Turn off lights – Flashlights, camera flashes, or phone lights can disorient turtles.
  • Observe from behind – Always stay behind the turtle; never get between her and the ocean.
  • Watch your step – Avoid walking on tracks or the nesting area to preserve evidence for researchers.
  • Report it – Please call TurtugAruba sea turtle conservation group so they can mark and monitor the nest.

Please report ANY Aruba turtle activity to the 24-hour Turtle Hotline:

+297-592-9393

If you wish to help the conservation of Sea Turtles in Aruba, please make a donation to:

TurtugAruba
Aruba Bank 
Accnt #4006684