Flippered Friends: Sea Turtles in Fort Walton Beach, FL

green sea turtle

Let us introduce you to a few of our favorite locals ... the sea turtles of Fort Walton Beach. These ancient and majestic animals are beloved by all, but they need our help. Discover how to protect these beautiful creatures and uncover a few interesting facts. We will even tell you where you can see Okaloosa Island sea turtles. 

If you are planning a stay in Fort Walton Beach, be sure to visit our blog for excellent area information, things to do, and the best places to stay. 

Let’s Learn About Sea Turtles on Fort Walton Beach 

Nesting Season on the Gulf Coast 

Sea turtle nesting season along the Gulf Coast is from May 1st through October 31st. During this time, these ocean giants leave their usual habitat in the Gulf of Mexico and the oceans beyond to come ashore and lay their eggs. In the middle of the night, when there is the least chance of disturbance, female sea turtles climb up the beach to dig a nest and lay 65-180 eggs in a single clutch. Females can lay two to six clutches per nesting season.

Once the eggs are laid and covered over with sand, the female returns to the ocean. Approximately 60 days later, the hatchlings will emerge from a successful nest. 

Gulf Coast Sea Turtle Species 

Of the seven species of sea turtles in the world today, four can be seen on and near Okaloosa Island: Loggerhead, Green, Kemp’s Ridley, and Leatherback Sea Turtles. All four of these are on either the endangered or threatened species list. 

Safety for Sea Turtles on Fort Walton Beach 

These endangered and threatened species need us to do our part to keep them safe for many generations to come. Locals and visitors can play an important role in the safety and protection of our flippered friends. Here are a few essential things for you to know and what to do if you encounter a sea turtle along Fort Walton Beach. 

What do you do if you see a stranded, sick, or nesting sea turtle? 

  • Call the Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Hotline at (888) 404-3922 or the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Sea Turtle Patrol Hotline at (850) 461-2885 (be sure to take note of the exact location or drop a pin). 
  • If the turtle is nesting, turn off any lights, stay behind her at a distance, keep quiet, and do not touch her. 
  • Keep pets away from turtles and nests. 

What else can you do to help sea turtles? 

  • Fill in any holes you dig or create on the beach. 
  • Flatten sandcastles or sand sculptures. 
  • Remove all trash, toys, drink containers, and other belongings. 
  • Turn off Gulf-facing lights in your vacation rental. 
  • Use red flashlights on the beach at night (pick one up at any of the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Welcome + Adventure Centers). 
  • Look out for turtles while boating/obey no-wake zones. 
  • Reduce plastic waste.
  • Follow local beach rules. 
  • Support organizations that work to protect sea turtles and promote education. 
  • Stop by the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Welcome + Adventure Center for free buckets, gloves, etc., to collect trash from the beach (only a 3-minute walk from Seaspray Beach Vacation Rentals). 

Where to See Sea Turtles in Fort Walton Beach 

If you are hoping to see sea turtles during your visit, there are a few places you can look. From underwater adventures to animal encounters at our favorite marine park, sea turtle lovers will love the chance to experience these ancient mariners up close. 

Gulfarium Marine Park C.A.R.E. Center 

Location: 1010 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 

If you would like a guaranteed look at a sea turtle, book the C.A.R.E.ing for Turtles tour. The C.A.R.E. Center at the Gulfarium Marine Park and Destin-Fort Walton Beach have teamed up to bring visitors and locals an opportunity to learn more about sea turtles, conservation, and rehabilitation. This tour is only $20 for those 8 years old and up. Get a behind-the-scenes look and meet a few of the current sea turtle residents. You may even catch a glimpse of Mr. Right, a famous permanent resident at the C.A.R.E. Center who only has two flippers! 

The Gulfarium Marine Park also offers a Discover Turtles program for those who want to learn what it takes to help sick or injured sea turtles and feed the African spurred tortoises. (Discounted rates are available on general admission for seniors and military.)  

Book Your Stay at Seaspray Beach Vacation Rentals 

Take your sea turtle adventure to the next level when you stay directly on the beach at Seaspray Beach Vacation Rentals—endeavor to protect your favorite reptiles from your clean and comfortable condo. Spend your days snorkeling or exploring local attractions, and your evenings walking on the beach using our convenient beach access. Browse our 1, 2, and 3-bedroom rentals and find one that fits your travel needs. You will love our incredible amenities, whether you are staying for a few days or a few months. 

Book Your Fort Walton Beach Stay Today! 

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