Night sea-turtle watch
Night sea-turtle watch at Rekawa is a guided, community-run conservation experience on the south coast of Sri Lanka. Participants walk on the beach after dark with trained local guides and volunteers to observe nesting female turtles and, at certain times of year, hatchlings making their way to the sea. The activity emphasizes low-impact viewing and supports the Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project and local livelihoods. Expect quiet, slow-paced observation rather than close handling — this is wildlife conservation and not a zoo-style encounter.
Location
Rekawa Beach (Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project area), Tangalle / Rekawa village (southern coast), Sri Lanka
Duration
Typically 2–3 hours per session (start times vary with season and tide; sessions commonly begin between 19:30 and 22:00).
Best Time to Visit
Best: November to March (peak nesting December–January). Some nesting and hatchling events occur outside these months; check local reports.
Pricing
From LKR 1,500–3,500 per person (approx. USD 5–20) depending on group size, private tours, and whether a local conservation donation is included. Often cheaper for children and groups; some operators accept donations to the community turtle project separately.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Observe nesting female turtles (primarily Olive Ridley; occasional Green, Hawksbill or Leatherback sightings reported)
See hatchlings scramble across the sand to the sea (seasonal and weather dependent)
Learn about beach monitoring, nest protection and local conservation efforts
Experience a community-led eco-tourism initiative that directly supports conservation and livelihoods
Guided night walk with low-impact viewing protocols (no white flash photography, quiet observation)
Itinerary
Meet at the Rekawa conservation/meeting point; briefing by guides and volunteer wardens on rules, safety and what to expect.
Bring ID and booking confirmation. Guides explain low-light viewing, photography rules and how to avoid disturbing turtles.
Short walk from the meeting point along marked paths to the stretch of beach under patrol.
Guides set up low-red lights or use filtered torches; stay with the group and follow the guide’s instructions.
Quiet observation of nesting females digging, laying and covering nests, or, in hatchling season, watching baby turtles heading to the sea.
Keep distance (guided), do not use white flashes or loud voices, and do not touch turtles or nests. Viewing can be long periods of stillness.
Return walk and optional short debrief about what was seen, contribution to conservation, and opportunities to support the program.
Many tours finish with an optional small donation or chance to buy local crafts that support the community project.
Safety Requirements
Follow the guide and volunteer wardens at all times
No flash photography or bright white lights (use red-filtered torches if allowed)
Do not touch, feed, or attempt to handle turtles or hatchlings
Keep noise to a minimum and avoid sudden movements
Wear closed, sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing (beach can be uneven and humid)
Avoid bringing pets or children unsupervised; maintain recommended distance
Be mindful of tides—guides monitor safe access to the beach
Tips
Book in advance during peak season (Dec–Jan) — sessions are limited to reduce disturbance
Bring insect repellent, water, and a small torch with a red filter (or have the guide provide one)
Wear dark, non-reflective clothing and closed shoes; avoid bright clothes and shiny jewelry
Turn off phone flash and keep phones silent; record only if your guide permits and with low-light settings
Arrive quietly and on time for the briefing — the experience relies on strict protocols
Consider donating or buying local crafts to support the Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project
If you have mobility issues, notify the operator in advance — beach access can be uneven and require walking in sand
