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    Baby sea turtles on sandy beach heading to ocean at sunset
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    Popular
    4.7
    (134 reviews)

    Baby Sea Turtle Release

    3 hours
    Playa Escobilla, Oaxaca
    Family friendly

    About This Experience

    Witness one of nature's most magical moments while helping protect endangered sea turtles on a pristine beach at sunset. An unforgettable conservation experience for all ages. Join us at Playa Escobilla, one of the world's most important nesting sites for olive ridley sea turtles. Working alongside dedicated local conservationists, you'll help give these tiny creatures their best chance at survival while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

    Every year, thousands of sea turtles nest along our coast, but baby turtles face incredible challenges reaching the ocean safely. When you participate in a release, you directly support these conservation heroes and contribute to protecting endangered species for future generations.

    Tour Gallery

    Baby sea turtles on sandy beach heading to ocean
    Baby turtle silhouette at golden sunset
    Dozens of baby turtles released on beach at sunset
    Family releasing baby turtles on the beach
    Baby turtle next to coconut bowl at sunset
    Hands holding coconut bowl with baby turtles at sunset

    Why This Experience Matters

    World-Famous Nesting Beach

    Visit Playa Escobilla, one of the largest nesting beaches for olive ridley sea turtles in the world.

    Conservation Education

    Learn fascinating stories about the life cycle of sea turtles and ongoing conservation efforts.

    Magical Sunset Setting

    Experience the beauty of golden sunsets while watching baby turtles begin their life journey.

    Unforgettable Memories

    Capture once-in-a-lifetime moments as you help these tiny turtles make their way to the sea.

    Your Conservation Journey

    1

    Hotel Pickup

    We pick you up anywhere in Puerto Escondido. Count around 30 minutes to reach Playa Escobilla where you'll release the turtles.

    2

    Conservation Introduction

    Get a quick explanation about the turtles of the Oaxacan coast, their environment, and the important rules to follow.

    3

    The Magical Release

    We'll give you one or multiple baby turtles (depending on availability) in a coconut shell that you will carefully release in front of the ocean!

    4

    Watch the Journey

    Watch in awe as the babies run by instinct toward the ocean waves. Amazing photos guaranteed during this heartwarming moment!

    5

    Return Journey

    It's time to head back! We'll give you a comfortable ride back to your accommodation in Puerto Escondido.

    What to Bring

    Comfortable Clothing

    Light, breathable clothes suitable for the beach.

    Insect Repellent

    Mosquitoes can be active at dusk on the beach.

    Sunscreen

    Protection for the late afternoon sun.

    Camera

    Capture these unforgettable moments (no flash!).

    Water Bottle

    Stay hydrated during the experience.

    Light Jacket

    For the evening breeze on the way back.

    Why Choose Our Tour?

    Supporting Real Conservation

    Your participation directly funds local turtle sanctuaries that protect thousands of nests annually.

    Experienced Local Guides

    Passionate guides who share their deep knowledge about sea turtle biology and conservation.

    Small Group Experience

    Intimate groups ensure everyone gets hands-on participation in the release.

    Perfect Family Activity

    Educational and engaging for children and adults alike—a meaningful experience for all ages.

    Flexible Booking

    Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

    What's Included

    Included

    • Professional bilingual guide
    • Round-trip transportation
    • Sanctuary entrance fees
    • Conservation briefing
    • Hotel pickup & drop-off

    Not Included

    • Food and drinks
    • Gratuities (optional)
    • Personal expenses
    Conservation
    Family Friendly
    Safe Experience
    Transport Included

    Guest Reviews

    Google

    Google Reviews

    Emily Richardson profile

    Emily Richardson

    Google

    3 weeks ago

    Absolutely magical experience! Releasing baby turtles at sunset was a dream come true. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable about conservation efforts. My kids still talk about it every day!

    Marco Delgado profile

    Marco Delgado

    Google

    1 month ago

    Best activity we did in Puerto Escondido. The sanctuary at Playa Escobilla is doing incredible work. Watching those tiny turtles make their way to the ocean brought tears to my eyes.

    Sarah Mitchell profile

    Sarah Mitchell

    Google

    2 months ago

    A must-do experience! The sunset was spectacular and the whole conservation education was fascinating. Our guide explained everything about the turtle lifecycle. Highly recommend!

    TripAdvisor

    TripAdvisor Reviews

    JohnnyTravels profile

    JohnnyTravels

    TripAdvisor

    December 2024

    We booked this tour for our family vacation and it exceeded all expectations. The transportation was comfortable and our guide Maria was fantastic. The moment you release the baby turtle and watch it crawl towards the waves is pure magic!

    NatureLover_Lisa profile

    NatureLover_Lisa

    TripAdvisor

    November 2024

    Such an emotional and rewarding experience! I've done many wildlife tours but this one stands out. The fact that we're directly contributing to turtle conservation makes it even more meaningful. The sunset views are a bonus!

    TravelingTom profile

    TravelingTom

    TripAdvisor

    October 2024

    Perfect family activity! Our 6-year-old was thrilled to help the baby turtles. The guides made it educational and fun. The beach at Escobilla is beautiful and less crowded than other tourist spots. Worth every peso!

    Watch the Experience

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the Turtle Release Experience?
    Our Turtle Release Experience gives you the chance to help baby sea turtles reach the ocean safely while watching the sunset from one of Puerto Escondido's most beautiful beaches. It's conservation tourism at its best.
    Why is turtle release important?
    Sea turtles face numerous challenges during their nesting season. Baby turtles have an incredibly low natural survival rate (only about 1% reach adulthood), so these conservation programs significantly improve their chances.
    Is transportation included?
    Yes, pickup from your place of stay is included free of charge if it is located within Puerto Escondido. Transportation from outside city limits can be provided for an additional charge.
    When will I get picked up?
    Pick-up times for this tour start at about 4:30 PM. We'll confirm the exact time when you book.
    Are all fees covered with the cost?
    Yes, there are no additional costs for this tour. Your ticket includes transportation, guide, and sanctuary entrance fees.
    What safety measures should I know about?
    The baby sea turtles cannot be held directly in your hands—this is for both your wellbeing and the wellbeing of the sea turtles. You'll use a coconut shell container instead.
    Can I take photos during the release?
    Yes, absolutely! Just remember: no flash photography please. Flash can disorient the baby turtles and affect their natural instincts to find the ocean.
    What about bad weather?
    You can change to a different date or receive a full refund in bad weather. You are expected to show up in light rain, but releases may be cancelled in severe weather.
    Are bathrooms available?
    Yes, there is a bathroom once we arrive at Escobilla Sanctuary, about a 35-minute ride after pickup.
    Can I hold and release more than one turtle?
    This depends on how many hatchlings are ready for release that evening. When possible, we love giving everyone the chance to release multiple baby turtles.
    Is this tour suitable for children?
    Absolutely! This experience is perfect for families with children of all ages. Kids especially love getting involved in conservation efforts, and it's a wonderful educational opportunity.
    What kinds of turtles live in Puerto Escondido?
    Our coastline welcomes several species: Olive Ridley (most common), Black/Brown turtle, Hawksbill, and the impressive Leatherback sea turtle. Olive Ridleys are the species you'll most likely encounter during releases.
    What if I need to change my booking?
    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a FULL refund. There is a 50% cancellation fee on all late cancellation notices. Contact us to modify your booking.
    Is there a minimum group size?
    Not at all—we welcome solo travelers, couples, and large groups alike. The experience is special regardless of your group size.
    How long is the entire experience?
    Plan on about 3 hours total, including travel time. This gives you plenty of time to learn about the turtles, participate in the release, and enjoy the beautiful sunset atmosphere.
    MX$800

    per person

    Duration

    3 hours

    Departure Time

    4:30 PM

    Return Time

    ~7:30 PM

    Ages

    All ages

    Pickup

    Free in Puerto Escondido

    Book on WhatsApp

    ✓ Free cancellation up to 24 hours before

    4.7(134 reviews)

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    MX$800/ person