Sea Turtle Season is Here in Los Cabos! What Tourists & Residents Need To Know

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One of the most amazing times of year has kicked off here in Los Cabos – it’s sea turtle season! From late spring all the way into early winter, our beautiful beaches become even more special as these ancient mariners arrive to lay their eggs. It’s a pretty incredible sight, and whether you live here or you’re just visiting, there are a few things to keep in mind to help our shelled friends out.

When and Where to Expect Turtles

Sea turtle season in Los Cabos can actually start as early as May for some nesting individuals and can stretch all the way through November, sometimes even into December. While you might see activity across these months, the main period when most mama turtles come ashore, and later when most hatchlings emerge, tends to be concentrated from July onwards. The peak for nesting often happens in the late summer and early fall.

Then, about 45 to 60 days after the eggs are laid, the tiny hatchlings start to make their big debut. This means you’re most likely to see baby turtles making their exciting dash to the ocean from August through November, and occasionally a bit later.

You can find turtle nests on many beaches around Los Cabos. These amazing creatures often return to the same areas where they were born to lay their own eggs. So, keep an eye out, especially on quieter stretches of sand.

Meet the Local Turtle Stars

Los Cabos is a popular spot for a few different kinds of sea turtles. The most common ones you’ll see are the Olive Ridley turtles. They’re famous for their mass nesting events called “arribadas,” though that’s more common in other parts of Mexico. Still, plenty of Olive Ridleys choose our shores.

You might also catch a glimpse of the massive Leatherback turtle, the largest sea turtle in the world! We also get visits from Green sea turtles (often called “Tortuga Prieta” or Black Turtles locally when referring to the East Pacific Green Turtle), and occasionally Loggerheads and Hawksbills. All of these species are special, and sadly, most are facing threats to their survival.

Why We Need to Be Turtle Heroes

Life isn’t easy for sea turtles. From the moment they hatch, they face a tough journey. Predators like birds and crabs are a natural threat, but humans can also accidentally cause problems.

Things like bright lights from buildings and flashlights near the beach can confuse nesting females and disorient hatchlings, leading them away from the safety of the sea. Obstacles on the beach, like chairs and umbrellas left out overnight, can also block their path. And, of course, pollution and trash are big dangers.

That’s why it’s so important for all of us to be mindful during turtle season. These turtles have been around for millions of years, and we want to make sure they keep coming back to Los Cabos for generations to come.

How You Can Help Our Flippered Friends

The good news is, it’s easy to be a friend to the turtles! Here are a few simple things everyone can do:

• Lights Out for Turtles! If you’re staying near the beach, turn off or dim any outdoor lights that shine onto the sand at night. Close your curtains too. This helps nesting turtles and hatchlings find their way by the natural light of the moon.
• Keep Your Distance: If you’re lucky enough to see a nesting turtle or hatchlings, admire them from afar. Give them plenty of space – at least 30 feet is a good rule. Never use flash photography, as the bright light can scare and confuse them.
• Clear the Path: When you leave the beach for the day, take all your belongings with you. Fill in any holes you dug and knock down sandcastles. This makes it easier for turtles to navigate.

• Never Touch: It’s super important not to touch the turtles, especially the hatchlings. They need to make their own way to the water.
• Report Sightings (the right way): If you see a nesting turtle, hatchlings, or a nest that looks like it’s in danger (like too close to the tide line), don’t try to intervene yourself. Instead, contact local authorities or a turtle conservation group. Many hotels also have staff trained to help.
• Join a Supervised Release: Lots of local conservation groups and some hotels organize official turtle release programs. This is an amazing and safe way to see the baby turtles up close and learn more about them. It’s an unforgettable experience!

By working together, we can make sure Los Cabos remains a safe haven for these incredible creatures. So let’s all enjoy this special season and do our part to protect our amazing sea turtles!