Sea Turtle Nesting Season
Five species of sea turtles nest on Sri Lanka's southern beaches.
What it is
Sri Lanka's south coast is one of the few places where five species of sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs: green turtles, hawksbill turtles, olive ridley turtles, leatherback turtles, and loggerhead turtles. The main nesting beaches are at Rekawa (the best — a government-protected sanctuary), Kosgoda, and Induruwa. At Rekawa, you can join guided night watches (8pm-midnight) to see turtles come ashore and lay eggs without disturbing them. Hatchlings emerge about 50-60 days later. Avoid commercial 'turtle hatcheries' that keep turtles in tanks — Rekawa is the ethical choice.
Tips for visitors
- Visit Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project for an ethical experience
- No flashlights or flash photography on the beach at night
- Avoid commercial turtle hatcheries that exploit turtles for profit
- Patience is required — turtles arrive on their own schedule
Where to base yourself
Planning a trip in January?
Weather, sea conditions and crowds change a lot through the year. Read our guide to Sri Lanka in January before you book.
Also in January
- Religious FestivalTamil Thai PongalHindu harvest thanksgiving festival celebrating the sun god.
- Religious FestivalDuruthu PeraheraGrand procession at Kelaniya Temple marking Buddha's first visit to Sri Lanka.
- Cultural EventGalle Literary FestivalInternational literary festival held inside the historic Galle Fort.
- SeasonalHill Country Cool SeasonThe driest, coolest weather in the hill country — perfect for hiking and tea plantations.
- Religious FestivalPoya Day (Monthly Full Moon Holiday)Every full moon is a public holiday in Sri Lanka — no alcohol sales.
Planning around Sea Turtle Nesting Season?
Tell us your dates and we'll build your itinerary around it — where to stay, how to get there and when to arrive.
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