Sea Turtle Release in Puerto Escondido: Where, When & How to Help Ethically

Participating in a sea turtle release in Puerto Escondido is one of the most moving wildlife conservation experiences in Mexico. Learn how official sanctuaries operate and how to ensure your visit truly supports marine preservation.

1. Why the Oaxaca Coast is a Global Turtle Sanctuary

The beaches of Oaxaca, notably La Escobilla and protected coastal reserves, host the world-famous "arribadas" of Olive Ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea). Thousands of mother turtles arrive in synchronized nesting events.

2. Official Community Sanctuaries

Always choose official, certified sanctuaries where certified biologists manage incubation corrals. Incubation protects eggs from high temperature anomalies, beach predators, and poaching.

3. Ethical Guidelines for Hatchling Releases

• Always use natural coconut or gourd shells: Never touch hatchlings with bare hands. Human oils and body heat weaken them.
• No chemical lotions: Sunscreens and repellents disrupt the delicate magnetic and olfactory imprinting sensors turtles need to navigate the oceans.
• Sunset timing: Releases occur strictly at sunset (around 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM) when predatory seabirds have roosted and sand temperatures cool down.