Hatchling Release Experience at Juno Beach, Florida
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as the beach walk is gentle and short.
Overview
Join Loggerhead Marinelife Center’s Hatchling Release program in Juno Beach, FL for a magical evening witnessing baby sea turtles make their way to the ocean. Learn, explore, and support vital conservation efforts.
Hatchling Release
View sea turtle hatchlings being released! • Ages 10+ • 2 Hours
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience the magic of the Hatchling Release program at Loggerhead Marinelife Center, where you'll learn about sea turtles and witness the thrilling release of hatchlings into the ocean. This unforgettable evening combines education with the excitement of seeing these tiny creatures embark on their journey, all while supporting sea turtle conservation.
The Hatchling Release program at Loggerhead Marinelife Center is a unique experience that allows our guests to learn about sea turtles and their hatching process.
Duration
2 Hours
About
The program begins with an educational lesson about sea turtles and their nesting behavior and concludes with a walk to Juno Beach to view hatchlings being released by our Team.
Will we see a nest hatch? We cannot predict when nests will hatch. We will be releasing hatchlings that have recently hatched and been excavated by our research staff.
How does the program work? The Hatchling Release program begins with an informative presentation about sea turtles and hatchlings. The evening concludes with a trip to the beach to view hatchlings being released to the ocean.
Are we guaranteed to see hatchlings being released? The hatchlings we are releasing come from nests excavated earlier in the day by our research team. The number of nests being excavated, species of the nests and number of hatchlings found in the nest varies by day, so we cannot guarantee hatchlings every single night. Though we cannot offer refunds, all ticket sales directly benefit Loggerhead Marinelife Center's mission and the care of our sea turtle patients.
Will we get to touch a sea turtle? No, only staff on our permit are allowed to touch the sea turtle hatchlings.
Can I bring a flashlight? Sorry, flashlights are not permitted.
Can I take pictures? We do not permit photography of any form throughout the program.
More Info
- Children must be 10 years or older to attend a hatchling release, and all participants must be able to walk up to half a mile on the beach.
- We run our program rain or shine and only stay off the beach in the event of lightning. During this waiting period, guests will be onsite enjoying their presentation. We do not cancel the program due to inclement weather. If the forecast calls for rain, we recommend guests wear raincoats or ponchos. There are no refunds on tickets.
What to Wear
- Dark clothing is preferred to minimize the impact on nesting sea turtles. Bug spray and comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
- What if it’s raining? We run our program rain or shine and only stay off the beach in the event of lightning. During this waiting period, guests will be onsite enjoying their presentation. We do not cancel the program due to inclement weather. If the forecast calls for rain, we recommend guests wear raincoats or ponchos. No umbrellas please. If there is lightning at the conclusion of the program, we will not go to the beach.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early
Get to the center early to catch the full educational presentation before the release.
Use Red Flashlights
If you need light, use red filters to avoid disturbing the hatchlings’ natural behavior.
Wear Comfortable Sandals
Choose footwear suitable for walking on sandy and possibly uneven beach terrain.
Follow Volunteer Guidelines
Always follow instructions from staff and volunteers to protect the turtles and habitat.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Loggerhead sea turtles
- Snowy egrets
History
Juno Beach has been a vital nesting site for endangered sea turtles, with Loggerhead Marinelife Center established to protect this natural heritage.
Conservation
The center’s programs actively contribute to monitoring and increasing sea turtle survival rates through education and habitat protection.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in West Palm Beach
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Red LED flashlight
Allows you to see without disturbing the turtles during nighttime beach walks.
Lightweight insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and other insects common in Florida evenings.
summer specific
Comfortable walking sandals
Ideal for walking on sand and light beach terrain.
Light jacket or sweater
Useful for cooler temperatures during early spring or late fall evenings.
fall|winter|spring specific