Join our Night Patrol team for a rare, behind-the-scenes look at sea turtle conservation on Jekyll Island. During this nighttime beach patrol, participants will ride alongside field biologists as they survey the shoreline in search of nesting sea turtles and monitor the island’s beaches during the height of nesting season. Guests will ride along the beach in utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) and accompany biologists on foot as they monitor the shoreline for nesting activity. If a sea turtle is encountered, participants may have the opportunity to observe – and potentially assist – the patrol team as they document nesting behavior and collect important scientific data. Because sea turtles are wild animals, sightings cannot be guaranteed, but every patrol offers a unique opportunity to experience the real work of protecting these remarkable animals. For the safety of wildlife, only trained staff may handle turtles if one is observed.
Program Details: This program lasts from 9:00 p.m. to approximately 12:00 a.m., and departs from Great Dunes Beach Park. Please arrive 10-15 minutes early. Patrol vehicles depart promptly at 9:00 p.m. Late arrivals cannot join once the patrol has left. Participants will ride in UTVs and walk short distances on the beach. Guests should be comfortable climbing in and out of vehicles and walking on soft sand and uneven terrain.
Requirements: Participants must be at least 10 years old. Participants 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult (18+). A digital confirmation of your ticket will be emailed with your purchase confirmation. Please bring your digital ticket with you to board the UTV.
What to Bring: Please bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes (closed-toe recommended). Be sure to dress in weather-appropriate clothing (light layers, bug spray, rain jacket).
Accessibility: Participants will ride in UTVs and walk short distances on the beach. Guests should be comfortable climbing in and out of vehicles and walking on soft sand or uneven terrain.
Lighting & Photography: To protect nesting sea turtles, only red, turtle-safe lights may be used on the beach. Cameras are permitted for personal use ONLY. The use of flash is prohibited. As a State Park, commercial or professional photo/video are prohibited unless prior authorization has been received by the Jekyll Island Authority. Professional-grade equipment including but not limited to tripods, monopods, lighting, flashes, microphones, and detachable lenses, are prohibited.
Pet Policy: Pets are not permitted on this program.
Weather Policy: Programs take place outdoors and operate rain or shine, but may be canceled if weather conditions make it unsafe to proceed. If a program is canceled in its entirety due to weather, guests will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund. If a program is shortened due to weather after it has begun, partial rescheduling or refunds may be offered at the program’s discretion, depending on the circumstances and the length of time completed.
Important Notes: Sea turtle sightings cannot be guaranteed. Participants will observe turtles from a safe distance, and only trained staff may handle wildlife. Participants must follow all instructions from staff to ensure the safety of wildlife and the research team. Guests who do not follow program guidelines may be asked to leave the patrol.
Ticket Policy: Each participant must have their own ticket. Tickets are sold per person, not per vehicle. Tickets are valid only for the date purchased. Refunds or rescheduling requests must be made at least 72 hours before the program start time. Cancellations within 72 hours and no-shows are not eligible for refunds or rescheduling.
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