Everglades National Park with kids

As someone who lives in South Florida with two adventurous young kids, I know that the Sunshine State offers so much more to families than trips to theme parks, including 11 national parks. These public lands range from the gator-filled swamps of Big Cypress National Preserve to the well-intact remains of Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park. But, perhaps the most famous is the 1.5 million-acre subtropical wilderness (equivalent to the size of Delaware) of the Everglades National Park in South Florida — a personal favorite.

The Everglades National Park is also an international treasure, a World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance, and a specially protected area under the Cartagena Treaty. The Everglades is a massive park — the third largest in the lower 48 — and has so much to offer families. You can easily tailor your trip to meet the specific needs of your family, whether that includes a trek through a cypress swamp in a slough slog, kayaking the seagrass meadows of Florida Bay or an exhilarating airboat ride. 

The Everglades is one of our favorite places for wildlife viewing and is home to iconic species like American alligators and roseate spoonbills to threatened animals, including the West Indian manatee and even American crocodiles. Yes, Florida even has crocodiles! The Everglades is the only place in the world to see both crocodiles and alligators co-existing. 

History of the Everglades

The Everglades once covered 11,000 square miles of South Florida. 100 years ago, water flowed down the Kissimmee River into Lake Okeechobee, then south through the Everglades, and finally, into Florida Bay. The shallow. slow-moving water created the many habitats known in the Everglades, like ponds, sloughs, sawgrass marshes, and hardwood hammocks. While water in the Everglades is often referred to as swampy, the truth is, it’s more like a slow-flowing river. In fact, the Everglades were dubbed the River of Grass by Marjory Stoneman Douglas in 1947.

Everything changed when early colonial settlers in the 1800s began to develop the region into farmland and communities. Developers dug canals to drain the wetlands. This alteration of the natural water flow in South Florida continued. In 1948, Congress authorized the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to construct a system of roads, canals, levees, and water-control structures stretching throughout South Florida to continue draining the wetlands. As a result, the Everglades are now 50% of what they once were. 

The alteration of the wetlands—combined with increasing population—damaged the natural system. According to the National Park Service, with the support of many early conservationists, scientists, and other advocates, Everglades National Park was established in 1947 to conserve the natural landscape and prevent further degradation of its land, plants, and animals.

Crocodile or alligator?

As I mentioned above, the Everglades is the only place in the world to see both crocodiles and alligators. How do you tell the difference between crocodiles and alligators?

Crocodiles have a pointer, v-shaped snout, while alligators have a rounder, u-shaped snout. Alligators are more numerous in Florida and typically found in freshwater, while the more rare and elusive crocodile prefers salty or brackish water, as well as freshwater.

When an alligator has its mouth shut, only their upper teeth are visible. When a crocodile has its mouth shut, it shows off a toothy grin with both upper and lower teeth visible.

Lastly, alligators have a darker, almost black color, while crocodiles tend to be a lighter tan color. 

Things to know before you go – Everglades National Park

Three main entry points exist for the park: the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, which is closest to Naples and south of Everglades City, the Shark Valley area that can be accessed by US 41 (also known as the Tamiami Trail) and the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center in Homestead — the park’s main headquarters. Personally, I’ve spent the most time exploring the Homestead entrance.

The three entrances are not connected due to the swampy terrain of the park. Therefore, you won’t be able to enter the park in one region and drive through it to the others. They are also in different parts of the state. You’ll want to pick one region to explore in a day. As of right now, there is no advance reservation system needed to enter the park. 

The Gulf Coast visitor access area serves as the gateway for exploring the Ten Thousand Islands, a maze of mangrove islands and waterways that extends to Flamingo and Florida Bay accessible only by boat in this region. I’ve never explored this region of the park from this entrance, but it is on my list. The original Gulf Coast Visitor Center was destroyed by Hurricane Irma in September of 2017. The temporary Visitor Contact Station was destroyed by Hurricane Ian in 2022. Visitor services are limited. 

All park visitors are required to pay an entrance fee, which is $35 per vehicle. You can also use an interagency annual pass to enter. Visitor centers and entrance stations have set operating hours, but the park remains open 24/7.

When to visit Everglades National Park with kids

South Florida has two main seasons: wet season (which runs from June through October), and dry season (which runs from November through May). The dry season is more popular due to lower and more comfortable temperatures, lessening of mosquitoes, and an abundance of wildlife.

In the dry season, temperatures reach average highs of 77°F and lows of 53°F. Sometimes, strong cold fronts bring even chillier weather! 

I have to warn you, in the summer, the bugs are bad — really bad. During cooler months, the insects such as mosquitoes and biting flies may still occur in some areas and at dusk and dawn. Come prepared with mosquito repellent, and maybe even head nets or bug jackets. 

One thing about the dry season that makes for better wildlife viewing is lower water levels due to less rain. This means that the animals gather around water holes. There have been times when I’ve seen dozens of large alligators all in one small section of a trail. And during winter, the birdwatching is exceptional as many species fly south for warmer temperatures and breeding. In fact, the Everglades National Park is the most significant breeding ground for wading birds in North America, and it is a critical stopover habitat for birds migrating along the Atlantic Flyway, such as the Yellow-throated Warbler. 

Everglades National Park nature trails for kids

Hiking in the Everglades means you can explore a variety of habitats, from tree islands to swamps, sawgrass marsh, and wet prairie. Most hikes are short, interpretive, flat trails that are perfect for young kids, especially because you can often see a lot of wildlife. 

At the start of the Royal Palm Information Station and Bookstore, in the Homestead entrance, you can find two must-see trails, the Anhinga Trail and Gumbo Limbo Trail. Additionally, Ranger-led walks and talks are conducted here, and the visitor station includes a small bookstore, restrooms, and vending machines.

Kid-friendly hiking trails

Anhinga Trail: This trail is one of my favorites and if you do nothing else in the Everglades, you should do this! It’s a short 0.8-mile loop on a paved path with a boardwalk over the water. It always has good wildlife viewing, like gators, turtles, osprey, anhinga, cormorants, purple gallinules, black vultures, snakes and more. On this trail (and all trails really) I recommend taking your time and observing the wildlife. You’ll see anhingas swimming in the water and popping up with their bill piercing a fish they then juggle to toss down their throats. After a dive, they’ll often jump up to a branch and spread out their wings to dry their feathers, since they lack the oil glands other birds have to stay dry. 

Gumbo Limbo Trail:  This 0.4-mile trail winds through through dense forest. It includes views of the famous Gumbo Limbo, affectionally known as the tourist tree. Why? Because its peeling red bark looks like the skin of a sunburnt tourist! 

Pinelands Trail: An easy 0.4-mile paved trail through a pine forest, one of the many habitats found in Everglades National Park.

Mahogany Hammock Trail: This 0.5-mile boardwalk trail meanders through a dense, jungle-like hardwood hammock. Plants include gumbo-limbo trees, air plants, and the largest living mahogany tree (Swietenia mahogani) in the United States. Because the park is so remote, this trail’s parking lot is one of the best to view the International Space Station if you take an evening star walk or drive,

Pa-hay-okee Trail: This is a very easy .2-mile boardwalk loop where you can view the iconic sawgrass prairie. 

Eco Pond Trail: This half-mile loop around a pond is great for bird watching. 

Bobcat boardwalk: A short, easy 1-mile out and back trail through a sawgrass slough and hardwood forest. This trail is accessed at the Shark Valley entrance. 

Otter Cave Hammock Trail: A 0.5-mile out-and-back rough limestone trail through a tropical hardwood forest with small footbridges over a small stream. Check at the Shark Valley Visitor Center for the current conditions of the trail; it sometimes can be flooded during the summer.

Exploring Everglades via boat

If you know anything about me, you know I love the water. In the Everglades, you can explore the water — both fresh and salt — in a variety of ways. One thing to note is that water levels vary drastically by season, and some trails can become dry and require carrying the canoe or kayak. The trails also vary from beginner to advanced, and can be as long or short as you want, depending on where you go. So, always check conditions before you head out, stay within your limits of paddling, and have a plan.

Remember too, this is the home of crocodiles and alligators, which you will undoubtedly see. Keep a safe distance when observing the large reptiles— especially during breeding season when males are more active and territorial, and give lots of space to nesting mothers. 

Kayaks and canoes

You can bring your own kayak or canoe, and there are also two places to rent canoes and kayaks within the park, one in Flamingo at the Homestead entrance and the west side of the park at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center. 

Boat tours and airboats

Flamingo also offers two 90-minute boat tour rides, one into the Everglades freshwater backcountry and another into Florida Bay. When it comes to taking boat tours with kids, I recommend bringing a lot of snacks and water to keep them occupied, especially if they are younger. Flamingo is one of the best places to see crocodiles and manatees, so be sure to spend some time walking around the marina. 

Boat tour tickets may be purchased in the Marina Store. Visit www.flamingoeverglades.com or call (352) 701-6581 for more information. Boat tours of Whitewater Bay and Florida Bay depart from the Flamingo Marina located next to the Flamingo Visitor Center (38 miles into the park, 50 miles from Homestead, Fla). 

Camping in Everglades National Park

If you’re interested in camping, there are just campgrounds in the park: Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground. Both are accessible from the Homestead entrance and accommodate tents and RV’s with a limited number of group sites. You can make reservations with Everglades Guest Services or by calling 1-855-708-2207.

The Flamingo campground, which is at the very end of the park — about 45-minutes from the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center — offers solar-heated showers, two dump stations, picnic tables, grills, and an amphitheater for seasonal Ranger programs. And newly available are safari-style Eco tents, complete with fans and electricity (I haven’t tried these out yet, but they look nice)! 

Long Pine Key campground is open seasonally November-May, and is just a few miles from the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. This campground has cold showers, restrooms, a dump station, and a fill station.  

Shark Valley tram and bike rentals

If you’re headed to the Shark Valley entrance, the 15-mile path is best viewed via a 2-hour tram ride or bike ride (I don’t recommend walking it).  Halfway through the trail, there is a 45-foot high observation tower, a water fountain with a water bottle refill station, and restrooms. 

The two short hikes great for walking and kids (mentioned above) can be started close to the visitor center, where you can also purchase tickets for the tram or rent bikes. If you have young kids, you can also request bikes with seat attachment for children up to 40 pounds. 

If you decide to bike, note that there is virtually no shade on the path. Also, Florida is the lightning capital of the U.S. Check the weather so you don’t get caught in a storm. Most of the thunderstorms occur during the mid to late afternoon hours, so the best riding times are in the morning when it’s still a little cooler.

If you opt for the tram, the tour operator gives you lots of info about the Everglades, the animals, the history of the observation tower, and more. 

Prices for the tram ride:

• Adults (13-61) $31.00
• Seniors (62+) $24.00
• Children (3-12) $16.00

Slough slog

Most people wouldn’t dream of stepping foot off-trail and into the gator-infested waters of the Everglades. But that’s exactly what happens if you decide to take a slough slog. Unless you are going with someone who has gone before and knows what they are doing, I suggest doing this with the NPS ranger-led program,

You’ll trek through a a sawgrass prairie before making your way into the shallow, swamp-like body of water of a cypress dome — a freshwater forested wetland that appears like a tree island. The name comes from the dome-like shape of treetops, formed by smaller trees growing on the edge where the water is shallow, while taller trees grow at the center in deeper water.

During a slough slog, the water could get up to your waist at some points.  It’s quiet, peaceful (or maybe a bit nerve-wracking), and as you journey into the cypress trees covered in air plants, it feels like entering an entirely different world — like something out of a fantasy film. You might pass an alligator hole, hear the prehistoric call of a great blue heron, glimpse owls, snakes, tree frogs and more. Seriously, watch where you put your hand because mine has come a bit too-close-for-comfort to a resting cottonmouth. It’s honestly one of my favorite things to do in the Everglades and share with any willing friend who will join me! If you have younger kids, just check with rangers about water levels. 

Ranger-led programs and Junior Ranger program

Like many US national parks, the Everglades has tons of ranger-led programs and walks, from guided hikes and bird-watching to slough slogs and guided paddles. 

We love the Junior Ranger program at the National Parks and state parks when they have them, and have done them at several across the country. We recently even did a Junior Refuge Manager Program at the Arthur M. Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in South Florida, which was new to us. I highly recommend doing this as an activity during your trip.

The Everglades provides an online digital copy of the booklet you can request as well, and free coloring pages are provided on the website. 

Robert is Here fruit stand

As a side note, if you’re going to the Homestead entrance, a stop at the Robert is Here Fruit Stand is a must. The fruit stand is family-owned and operated and specializes in rare and exotic fruits and vegetables, like canistel, guava, dragon fruit, sapodilla, and mamey, mostly grown right on the farm. Every day, the staff hand-cuts the fruit for their smoothies and milkshakes. I personally love the key lime milkshake or any smoothies with guava and passionfruit. 

Have you ever been to Everglades National Park? 

About the author

Bethany Augliere is a marine biologist, conservationist, and storyteller. She has always been inspired to encourage people to fall in love with nature and explore their own backyard, in hopes of instilling a desire to help protect the Earth and its creatures — especially the ocean. Her work has brought her eye-to-eye with giant tiger sharks, playful dolphins, curious manta rays, and gentle manatees. Now, as a mom, she aspires to share those adventures with her family, whether it’s kayaking in the Everglades or searching for shark teeth on the beach.

You can find more from Bethany online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wilder_seas
Facebook: @bethanyaugliere
Website: www.bethanyaugliere.com
RWMC posts: Bethany Augliere

The post Exploring the Everglades National Park with Kids  appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

“If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.” ~ Loren Eiseley 

Our attraction to water

Humans have an innate and profound attraction to water, and this connection is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history and our basic biological needs. Water comprises about 70% of the human body. Water covers more than 70% of Earth. Humans spend the first 9 months of our existence in a watery womb. We require water for various physiological functions, including digestion, circulation, temperature regulation, and waste elimination.

Our attraction to water may be instinctual, as our ancestors needed to locate and consume freshwater sources to survive. But water also provides a natural playground for humans. From swimming in oceans and lakes to kayaking down rivers or simply relaxing on a beach, water offers a wide range of recreational activities, as well as natural therapy for stress relief. 

Many of us have heard that green space, or time in nature, benefits the body and mind, especially to combat all our time behind screens and inside under fluorescent lights. Less attention has, though, been paid to blue spaces —  areas around rivers, lakes, oceans, and ponds. Recognizing the importance of water and “blue spaces” in our lives can lead to a deeper appreciation of its value and the need to protect and preserve this precious resource for future generations.

Photograph of Bethany Augliere by Nicodemo Ientile

Ocean memories

Childhood is a time of wonder and exploration, a period when the world’s mysteries are unveiled through the lens of innocence and curiosity. For many of us, some of the most cherished and enduring memories of our early years are those spent in those blue spaces near water. These experiences aren’t just fleeting moments in our past; they lay the foundation for a lifelong connection with nature. The time we spend as children near water not only forms indelible memories but also fosters a profound bond with these environments that can shape our relationship with the natural world throughout our lives. 

Some of my best memories involve water, from my childhood to just this past summer. When I was growing up, the water was like a second home. My dad’s parents lived on a lake in northern Virginia, and my mom’s parents lived five minutes from the beach in Long Island, New York. I spent my childhood learning how to bodysurf and boogie board with my grandma, cousins, and friends. We often got tossed in waves, emerging from the water with sand burns on our legs. In the winter, we took family trips down to the Florida Keys. I loved snorkeling in the tranquil waters, scuba diving on coral reefs, and kayaking in mangroves. I have fond memories of searching for hermit crabs with my little brother at the shore’s edge.

Blue space and mental health 

Today, Western countries are experiencing a rise in mental health issues, including social anxiety, especially among young people, which is linked to increasing social media use and academic and social pressures. Among all disease groups worldwide, mental disorders are the leading cause of years lived with a disability. We all have stress, but how can we better cope with that stress?

Get outside and see some blue!

Blue Mind Theory

The Blue Mind theory, popularized by marine biologist and neuroscientist Wallace J. Nichols, Ph.D., is the mildly meditative state people fall into when they are near, in, under, or on water. This theory posits that spending time near or around water (be it oceans, lakes, or rivers), triggers a neurological and psychological response that promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being. By immersing ourselves in the sights and sounds of blue spaces, we tap into a deep-seated connection with water that calms our mental state, encourages creativity, inspires reflection, and fosters a sense of interconnectedness with the natural world. 

Blue spaces vs. green spaces

Spending time in both green spaces (parks, forests, meadows), and blue spaces (near water) can offer a range of benefits to physical and mental well-being, yet they provide distinct experiences due to their unique characteristics. The key difference between green and blue spaces lies in their sensory experiences. Green spaces provide a predominantly visual and olfactory experience, with lush landscapes and the smell of vegetation. In contrast, blue spaces engage multiple senses, including visual, auditory, and tactile sensations. The sound of water and the feeling of coolness in the air or on the skin contribute to a more holistic sensory experience.

Benefits of blue spaces (and spending time near water)

The presence of water has an inherently calming effect on the human mind. The benefits of spending time in blue spaces come from 4 main ways: physical activity, stress reduction, providing a space for socialization, and the environmental factors that impact health. Experts have found that spending time in blue space lowers the risk of stress, anxiety, obesity, heart disease, and even premature death.

Some scientists claim that bodies of water can unlock problem-solving and creativity and that water’s color, sound, and feel can lower pulse rates. Water’s ever-changing patterns and reflections often inspire creativity and introspection, making it a source of artistic inspiration and personal insight.

The rhythmic sounds of waves, the reflection of the sky on the water’s surface, and the cool breeze all contribute to a sense of serenity. Blue spaces are associated with improved mood and increased feelings of happiness and relaxation. Being near water can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Like green spaces, blue spaces also offer opportunities for physical activity, such as swimming, kayaking, or boating. These activities promote physical fitness and mental well-being. Swimming, hiking, exploring, enjoying the company of friends, soaking up vitamin D, it all happens when exploring blue spaces. Many people report feeling a profound connection with nature when near water, which can foster a sense of interconnectedness and environmental stewardship.

Benefits of blue spaces for kids

A recent study reveals that recreational exposure to blue space as a child can have a major impact on a person’s adult mental health and can encourage them to maintain a healthy relationship with nature into adulthood. In the study, respondents shared their experiences with blue space during childhood, including how frequently they visited it and how comfortable their parents were allowing them to be in and near water. In a nutshell, more blue space exposure as a child results in better adult mental health and a greater propensity to spend recreational time in nature as an adult.

And not only that, but adults who had familiarity and confidence around coasts, rivers, and lakes, were more likely to spend recreational time in nature during adulthood, leading to continued benefits. 

Spending time recreating in blue spaces can also help with your child’s social skills and behavior. Another study found that higher beach attendance each year during childhood was associated with decreased total difficulties and peer relationship problems and increased pro-social behavior.

Ways to start exploring blue spaces

Blue space, which encompasses the sea and coastline, rivers, lakes, canals, waterfalls, and even fountains, has been used therapeutically for years. Whether you are already an outdoorsy family looking for new adventures or simply want to find yourself in more blue space, here are some ways you can incorporate water into your life.  

Keep it simple

If spending time in lakes or oceans is outside your comfort zone, then start small. Take a walk along a lake or stream, or sit on your patio and watch the rain. Take your little ones to jump in a puddle and watch the water splash or search for salamanders in a small creek. The point is to be intentional with your mind and time. Searching for places to explore water can often lead to finding cool new areas in general that you might not have otherwise found. 

Try something new

If you are feeling adventurous, try a new (to you) activity on the water, like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or tubing down a river. We started bringing a boogie board and skim board to the beach for my 4-year-old just so he could start getting comfortable with them. (We get most of our sports equipment second-hand from thrift shops or friends, especially when we are just starting to try stuff out). 

Snorkeling

Most people think you can only snorkel on tropical vacations to Hawaii or the Caribbean, but I often bring my mask and snorkel to lakes and rivers to see what I can find. This summer, I found a newt while snorkeling in a lake in Oregon. In prior years I’ve found giant snapping turtles, American eels, and landlocked salmon in the lakes of Maine or river otters and snakes in the freshwater springs of Florida, in addition to manatees. So, put on a mask and dip your head beneath the surface; you’ll never know what you are going to find. 

Let them lead

It can be tempting to want to push your kid into trying something new or something that you love. But pushing them is rarely an effective method and can often backfire. Let them lead and take it slow. When I was teaching my then three-year-old to snorkel, I’d take him to a calm lagoon area, let him stay where he could stand, and just dip his head under with goggles to look for critters. Finding calm, clear water is one of the best ways to start building confidence when swimming in lakes or the ocean.

In Florida, if it’s windy and choppy at the beach, we often take the kids to little spots on the Intracoastal, an inland waterway system made up of natural inlets, saltwater rivers, bays, sounds, and man-made canals. It’s more protected than the beach, which means the water is much calmer and without waves. 

Bring friends

Nature is a great place to reconnect with friends and socialize. Adventure friends, shared joy, and positive peer influence can help us and our kids expand our horizons and potentially try new things we might not otherwise try. And parents might also feel more comfortable trying new things with more experienced parents nearby. I love being that positive influence, helping other families feel a bit more comfortable in the ocean if they are with us.

100 Blue Hours movement

My passion is to help others enjoy the water for their own mental and physical well-being. Ultimately, I also hope this inspires people to care about these vital ecosystems and take positive action toward the environment, whether it’s recycling more, shopping second-hand, minimizing single-use plastics, participating in beach cleanups or learning about a local endangered species.

For this reason, I co-founded the 100 Blue Hours movement along with Brittini Arlene, a fellow marine biologist and water-loving mom.

The mission: spend 100 hours in or around the water in one year. This averages to about 2 hours a week.

The movement underscores the importance of reconnecting kids with the natural world. Spending quality time in blue spaces fosters a deep and lasting connection between children and the environment. These experiences instill a sense of wonder, respect, and appreciation for the natural world, encouraging future generations to become stewards of the environment. After all, “in the end, we will conserve only what we love, we will love only what we understand,” said Baba Dioum.

Why 100 blue hours in a year?

The goal of spending 100 hours in blue spaces over the course of a year is significant for several reasons, but it is also achievable, striking a balance between setting a meaningful target and ensuring it’s realistic for most families:

100 hours represent a substantial amount of time spent in nature, which can lead to tangible physical and mental health benefits for children and adults alike. Regular exposure to blue spaces can reduce stress, boost mood, and promote overall well-being.  Setting a specific goal of 100 hours encourages families to consciously prioritize outdoor activities in blue spaces. This intentionality can lead to positive behavioral changes, such as reducing screen time and increasing physical activity.

One hundred hours spread across 365 days provides flexibility for families to plan outings at their own pace. It allows for a variety of short and long visits, accommodating busy schedules and different seasons. 100 hours over a year adds up to meaningful and cumulative experiences. Over time, these experiences can shape a child’s perspective, fostering a deep and lasting connection with the natural world.

We also think the goal of 100 hours over a year is attainable for families of varying backgrounds and access to blue spaces. It doesn’t require expensive vacations or extensive travel. It doesn’t require you to homeschool or forgo other meaningful activities. Many communities have accessible local water bodies, parks, or green spaces where families can spend quality time. While it encourages regular outdoor time, the 100-hour target is not overly demanding. It allows families to enjoy the process without feeling pressured to meet strict quotas, making the experience enjoyable and sustainable.

About the author

Bethany Augliere is a marine biologist, conservationist, and storyteller. She has always been inspired to encourage people to fall in love with nature and explore their own backyard, in hopes of instilling a desire to help protect the Earth and its creatures — especially the ocean. Her work has brought her eye-to-eye with giant tiger sharks, playful dolphins, curious manta rays, and gentle manatees. Now, as a mom, she aspires to share those adventures with her family, whether it’s kayaking in the Everglades or searching for shark teeth on the beach.

You can find more from Bethany online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wilder_seas
Facebook: @bethanyaugliere
Website: www.bethanyaugliere.com
RWMC posts: Bethany Augliere

The post Benefits of Blue Hours: The Wonder of Water Awaits appeared first on RUN WILD MY CHILD.

Today, Florida mom of two and marine biologist Bethany Augliere will delve into the essential practices and guidelines for observing sea turtles responsibly. We will explore how to create a safe environment for nesting females, safeguard hatchlings during their journey to the sea, and promote the overall well-being of these fascinating creatures. Additionally, we will discuss various ways to respectfully view sea turtles without causing harm or distress. Whether you are a dedicated conservationist or a curious beach lover, this post will equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect and appreciate sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Be a turtle-friendly beachgoer

As the weather warms, families flock to the beaches to splash in the waves and dig in the sand. But, there’s another shore visitor — sea turtles, and they need our help to remain safe. Today, I’ll share with you some information about how to be a sea turtle-friendly beachgoer, and some ways you can responsibly view them. Let’s dive into the world of sea turtle-friendly beachgoing and discover how we can make a positive impact while enjoying these remarkable creatures in their stunning marine homes.

All about sea turtles

Sea turtles are marine reptiles adapted for life in the ocean. Though they require surfacing for air to breathe, some species can dive for more than an hour and up to 4,000 feet beneath the surface, swimming with their powerful flippers. Sea turtles play a crucial role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. As they feed on sea grass and jellyfish, they help keep the balance in the ocean by controlling the population of these organisms. 

Seven species of sea turtles inhabit the Earth’s oceans: loggerhead, leatherback (the largest) green turtle, hawksbill, Kemp’s ridley (the smallest), olive ridley, and flatback. All but the flatback live in United States waters, and all six are listed on the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Unfortunately, sea turtles face threats due to humans from entanglement in fishing gear and marine debris, poaching of adults and eggs, pollution, vessel strikes, and habitat destruction. 

A female leatherback sea turtle swims along the shore in South Florida. 

Sea turtle nesting season

Females return to shore to lay eggs, often making long journeys to go to specific beaches year after year. While sea turtles nest around the U.S., including the southeast from about March to November and Hawaii from mid-April to September, 90% of nesting takes place in Florida. Large numbers of greens, loggerheads, and leatherbacks crawl ashore to lay their eggs. Two other species – Kemp’s ridley and hawksbill – also nest in Florida, but in very small numbers.

As the sun sets, a female turtle makes her way up the beach from the sea, dragging her heavy body through the sand. Having watched nesting turtles many times for work, it looks exhausting —  I feel for those moms. Every so often, a turtle will begin nesting early in the morning at sunrise, but it’s less common. 

Once she finds a suitable spot in the dry region of the beach, the female turtle digs a body pit, flinging sand with her flippers and shuffling her body. When the pit is ready, she works on the hole for the eggs, called a nesting chamber. She scoops out the sand with her back flippers and then enters a trance-like state once she begins to drop 80 to 150 ping pong-sized eggs, depending on the species. 

A sea turtle nest in Ocean Isle Beach, NC. 

A leatherback hatchling swims out to sea after emerging from the nest. 

Hot chicks, cool dudes

About 60 days after the eggs are laid, depending on the temperature of the sand and other environmental conditions, the hatchlings emerge and crawl to the sea, usually under cover of darkness, which offers protection from predators.

Warmer temperatures during a sea turtle nest’s incubation tend to produce female hatchlings. Cooler temperatures, which can result from rainfall or shade from a building or a tree, tend to produce eggs that will become males. 

This means global temperatures and climate change could impact future populations of turtles. For instance, one turtle hospital in Florida has documented only female hatchlings for the last 4 years, which have also been the hottest years on record. Similarly, a 2018 study showed that 99% of turtles who originated from the warmer, northern region of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia were females. 

Tips for helping sea turtles nest safely 

With climate change, habitat loss, and other threats already present, it’s our job to be educated and responsible visitors to the beach to minimize our impact. The journey is not easy for the nesting females or hatchlings. So, here are a few guidelines to ensure you are not disrupting safe passage for the turtles. 

1. Respect nesting areas

Sea turtles typically choose sandy beaches with suitable conditions for nesting. Look for areas with soft, undisturbed sand above the high tide line. Nests are often marked by tracks leading from the ocean to the nesting site, resembling a series of comma-shaped depressions left by the turtle’s flippers. Many beaches with known sea turtle nesting activity will have signs or barriers indicating the presence of nests. Respect these signs and avoid entering or disturbing the designated nesting areas. These signs help protect the eggs and ensure the safety of the nesting females.

Be aware of marked nesting areas on the beach and avoid walking or setting up beach equipment in these designated zones. Keep a safe distance from nests and do not disturb or touch them. Dispose of trash properly and never leave any items, such as plastic bags or food containers, on the beach. Sea turtles can mistake litter for food, which can lead to serious health issues if ingested.

2. Lights out 

Artificial lights can disorient nesting females and hatchlings, leading them away from the ocean. If you are living or staying at a beachfront property, keep lights off while not in use and close your blinds at night to avoid adding to the overall sky glow. Avoid the use of unshielded outdoor lighting fixtures. 

Be mindful of using flashlights or even your phone when walking the beach at night. Sea turtles use moonlight for guidance when nesting and hatching, and lights and flash photography can confuse them and even cause them to move near parking lots and streets, or wander in circles and waste precious energy. 

If you want some sort of light, use turtle-friendly lighting that is low in intensity, directed downward, and shielded from the beach. Using long wavelength light, which appears amber or red, will prevent sea turtle disorientations. Many phones have an option for nighttime or dark mode that produces less blue light. 

3. Do not disturb 

If you see a nesting female (or hatchlings), be sure not to disturb her, which could cause her to stop laying eggs and return to the ocean. Keep a respectful distance to avoid causing any distress or disruptions. Observe quietly and from a distance. Remember, the priority is to provide a safe and quiet environment for the turtles. 

Justin Perrault, Ph.D., a scientist from Loggerhead Marinelife Center, studies a nesting sea turtle on a beach in South Florida. 

4. Leave No Trace

Dispose of trash properly and never leave any items, such as plastic bags or food containers, on the beach. Sea turtles can mistake litter for food, which can lead to serious health issues if ingested. Before leaving the beach, fill in any holes or flatten sandcastles. These obstacles can impede nesting females and cause hatchlings to become trapped or disoriented on their way to the sea. Remember to grab your toys and buckets, and any beach chairs or umbrellas, too! 

If you want to help marine life even further, bring a grabber and a bucket and clean up trash as part of your family beach activity. Children can understand that even small actions can make a big difference in sea turtle conservation. Picking up trash, reducing plastic use, and spreading the word about protecting sea turtles can have a positive impact on their survival. Every little bit helps. 

5. Avoid balloons

Did you know that balloons pose a significant threat to sea turtles and other marine life? Balloons that are released into the air can end up in the ocean, where they are often mistaken for food by sea turtles. Sea turtles are known to mistake balloons for jellyfish, which are a common part of their diet. When sea turtles consume balloons, they can cause serious internal injuries or blockages. This can lead to malnutrition, organ damage, and even death. Balloons and their attached strings can also entangle sea turtles, causing them physical harm. The strings can wrap around their flippers, necks, or internal organs, leading to injuries, infections, or impairing their ability to swim and feed.

To protect sea turtles and the marine environment, it is crucial to avoid releasing balloons into the air. Instead, opt for environmentally friendly alternatives for celebrations or events, such as using reusable decorations, bubbles, or kites. By making conscious choices, we can reduce the risk of harm to sea turtles and preserve the health of our oceans.

Who to call for wildlife emergencies

If you come across a nesting sea turtle or notice any signs of nesting activity, report it to the local authorities or sea turtle conservation organizations. They can provide assistance and monitor the nests to ensure proper protection. It’s also good to know the local numbers for sea turtle and other marine wildlife emergencies if you happen upon an injured or stranded turtle. A quick Google search for the state and sea turtle emergency will often bring up the right number. Here are a few: 

• Florida: Call Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission hotline — (888) 404-3922
• Georgia: Call DNR’s hotline — (800)272-8363
• Hawaii: Call NOAA’s stranding response hotline — (888) 256-9840
• Maryland: Call DNR’s hotline — (800) 628-9944
• South Carolina: Call SCDNR’s 24-hour hotline — (800) 922-5431

Ways to safely view and interact with sea turtles

If you are interested in seeing sea turtles in the wild, including nesting females or hatchling releases, many nonprofit organizations and sea turtle hospitals offer guided nighttime walks. You can also visit a facility that houses or rehabilitates sea turtles to see them up close. 

Some beaches offer organized sea turtle watch programs led by trained volunteers or conservation organizations. These programs provide educational opportunities to observe nesting turtles while following strict guidelines to ensure the turtles’ safety.

One of my favorite places to view turtles in South Florida is Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC), a sea turtle research, rehabilitation, education, and conservation center located in Juno Beach, Florida. Kids can view turtle patients up close while taking a walk through the public outdoor sea turtle hospital and learn about their rescue event to, their diagnosis, rehabilitation process, and release plan from the volunteers and staff. 

Some conservation organizations offer “adoption” programs where kids can symbolically adopt a sea turtle. This provides a fun and educational way to learn more about sea turtles while supporting their conservation efforts.

In addition to helping save sick and injured turtles, LMC also conducts scientific studies on health, disease nest success, and more to aid in conservation and management efforts. 

Here’s a list from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission that lists public walks and hatchling releases from other organizations and facilities. 

A loggerhead sea turtle receiving treatment at Loggerhead Marinelife Center in Juno Beach, Fla. 

Books about sea turtles for kids

• National Geographic Readers: Sea Turtles by Laura Marsh
• Follow the Moon Home: A Tale of One Idea, Twenty Kids, and a Hundred Sea Turtles by Philippe Cousteau
• Ranger Rick: I Wish I Was a Sea Turtle by Jennifer Bové
• Chase the Moon, Tiny Turtle: A Hatchling’s Daring Race to the Sea by Kelly Jordan
• Adventures in the Deep Blue Sea by Ann Taylor
• Yoshi, Sea Turtle Genius: A True Story about an Amazing Swimmer by Lynne Cox
• Flip Flap Wiggle: A Hatchling’s Journey From Sand to Sea by Robyn Hartley
• Sea Turtles by Gail Gibbons
• I’ll Follow the Moon by Stephanie Lisa Tara

Help protect the sea turtles

In conclusion, being a conscientious beachgoer is essential for the protection and conservation of sea turtles. Remember, every action, no matter how small, counts in the grand scheme of sea turtle conservation. By becoming conscientious beachgoers and actively engaging in efforts to protect and conserve sea turtles, we can ensure that these ancient marine reptiles continue to grace our oceans for generations to come. Let us cherish and safeguard their presence, embracing our responsibility as stewards of the sea. By following a few simple guidelines, we can make a positive impact and ensure the well-being of these magnificent creatures. 

About the author

Bethany Augliere is a marine biologist, conservationist, and storyteller. She has always been inspired to encourage people to fall in love with nature and explore their own backyard, in hopes of instilling a desire to help protect the Earth and its creatures — especially the ocean. Her work has brought her eye-to-eye with giant tiger sharks, playful dolphins, curious manta rays, and gentle manatees. Now, as a mom, she aspires to share those adventures with her family, whether it’s kayaking in the Everglades or searching for shark teeth on the beach.

You can find more from Bethany online in the following locations:
Instagram: @wilder_seas
Facebook: @bethanyaugliere
Website: www.bethanyaugliere.com
RWMC posts: Bethany Augliere

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