Every year, something truly magical happens along the sugar-white sands of Perdido Key. As the summer sun begins to warm the Gulf Coast, sea turtles return to our beaches to nest, continuing a ritual that has played out for millions of years.
Perdido Key is more than just a beautiful vacation destination—it’s also a protected nesting ground for threatened and endangered sea turtles, especially the Loggerhead. From May through October, our beaches become a vital part of the life cycle for these gentle marine giants.
During this season, you might notice areas of the beach marked off with signs or stakes. These are protected turtle nests, cared for and monitored by dedicated local groups such as the Gulf Coast Turtle Watch, Inc., who help ensure the hatchlings have a fighting chance.
While several sea turtle species nest in Florida, the Loggerhead is the most common nester on Perdido Key. You may also hear about Green and Kemp’s Ridley turtles making appearances from time to time.
Each female sea turtle lays 80–120 eggs in a single nest, and she’ll do this multiple times per season before heading back to sea—leaving her tiny offspring to face the world on their own.
Turtle Season: What to Expect
Guests staying in beachfront rentals may be lucky enough to spot signs of nesting or even witness tiny turtles making their first dash to the water.
Insider Tip: Always keep beachfront lights off and avoid using flashlights at night. Artificial light can disorient turtles and lead them away from the ocean.
At Perdido Realty Vacations, we’re proud to help protect the beach environment that makes turtle nesting possible. We encourage our guests to learn, observe respectfully, and share in this incredible coastal tradition.
In the coming months, we’ll dive deeper into how sea turtles nest, hatch, and what you can do to help protect them. For now, enjoy this special season—and keep an eye out for turtle tracks at sunrise!
Coming Soon: Post 2 – “Night on the Beach: How Sea Turtles Nest in Perdido Key”
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