Experience the magic of Jekyll Island’s beaches at night as you search for nesting sea turtles alongside experts from the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. The program begins inside the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, where participants will gather in the Hospital Pavilion for a short presentation. During this introduction, guests will learn about sea turtle biology, nesting behavior, and the conservation efforts protecting these remarkable animals along Georgia’s coast. Following the presentation, participants will car caravan to a nearby beach access for a guided nighttime walk in search of nesting sea turtles. Along the way, guides will help guests look for signs of nesting activity while sharing insights about sea turtle behavior and the challenges these animals face. Because sea turtles are wild animals and nesting activity varies each night, sightings cannot be guaranteed. 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 11:00 p.m., unless a sea turtle is encountered, and departs from the Georgia Sea Turtle Center parking lot. Participants should meet outside the front entrance of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center at 8:45 p.m. The program will begin with a presentation in the Hospital Pavilion before caravanning to the beach. Participants must provide their own transportation to the beach. Bikes and shuttles are not permitted.
Guest Requirements
Ages 10+; Participants 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult (18+). Shoes are required for the entire walk. Participants must be able to walk up to 2 miles on soft sand and uneven terrain at a slow pace.
What to bring
Please bring bug spray, a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, and wear comfortable shoes or sandals that can get sandy. Be sure to dress in weather-appropriate clothing (light layers, rain jacket).
Lighting & Photography
Flashlights and personal lights are not permitted. Guides will provide turtle-safe lighting if needed. 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.
Important Notes
Each participant must have their own ticket. Participants must follow all instructions from guides to ensure the safety of wildlife and the research team. Unsafe or disruptive behavior may result in removal from the program without refund. Sea turtle sightings, hatchlings, or nest inventories cannot be guaranteed.
Ticket Policy
Tickets are valid only for the date purchased. If your plans change, please contact us as soon as possible to discuss rescheduling or a refund. If a program is canceled due to weather or safety concerns, participants will be offered rescheduling or a refund.
Pet Policy
Pets are not permitted on this program.
Weather Policy
Programs take place outdoors and are subject to weather conditions. If lightning is detected in the area prior to the start of the walk, the program may be delayed for up to 20 minutes. If lightning occurs during the walk, guides will immediately begin exiting the beach and return to the nearest beach access for participant safety. If a program must be canceled due to unsafe weather conditions, guests will be rescheduled or issued a refund.
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