The Cayman Islands’ official sea turtle nesting season is
1 May – 30 November.
Sea turtles are a vital part of our marine ecosystem and are protected at all times under the National Conservation Act. Whether you’re on the beach, in the water, residing or visiting a coastal property, your actions can make a real difference.
If you see a turtle
In water:
Turtles often mate close to the shore. Disturbing them during this time can cause them to abandon their mating attempts. Always keep a respectful distance of 50ft/15m and never attempt to approach or interact with turtles in the sea.
On the beach:
Nesting turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs. If disturbed, they may abandon nesting altogether and may drop their eggs at sea.
âž¡ Never approach nesting turtles.
➡ Never use lights near nesting areas — artificial light can disorient and disturb them.
Hatchlings emerge from their nests at night and make their way to the sea, guided by the natural light of the moon and stars reflecting off the water. This first journey is critical — it helps them imprint the location so they can return decades later.
âž¡ Never interfere with hatchlings when they are on their way to the sea.
➡ If you believe hatchlings are in danger, call DoE’s 24-hour turtle hotline immediately for guidance.
If you find a nest:
If you suspect you’ve found a turtle nest, do not disturb the area.
➡ Send a photo and location details to DoE’s turtle hotline via WhatsApp.
For Property Owners, Condos, and Hotels
Beach Grooming:
Driving/operating machinery on nesting beaches can crush turtle eggs under the sand. Only hand-groom beaches unless you have sought permission from the Department of Environment (DoE).
Turtle Tracks:
Never rake or cover turtle tracks — DoE rely on them to locate and protect nests. Without visible tracks, nests may go unnoticed and unprotected.
Beach furniture:
Beach furniture can block or trap nesting turtles as they attempt to crawl up the beach to nest. Turtles may become injured or abandon nesting attempts if they encounter obstacles. Keep the beach clear at night.
Lighting:
Artificial lights disorient nesting turtles and hatchlings, guiding them away from the sea and into danger. Keep beaches dark by turning off lights or consult the DoE about installing turtle-friendly lighting.
Construction and Development
If you’re developing near the beach, always comply with your planning conditions. These typically include:
✔ Installing turtle exclusion fencing
✔ Ensuring all construction activity occurs landward of the fence
✔ Using turtle-friendly lighting
✔ Retaining beachside vegetation
✔ Adhering to DoE-recommended setback distances to protect beaches from erosion
Bonfires
Bonfires are a threat to turtles and their nests and require permission from either the Public Lands Commission (on public beaches) or the Fire Department (private beaches); both departments check with the DoE for nest locations before issuing approval.
On the water
Boating:
During nesting season, go slow and watch carefully for turtles. Boat strikes are becoming a leading cause of turtle deaths in Cayman each year.
Fishing:
Dispose of fishing line responsibly — never discard it at sea. Entanglement or ingestion of fishing line can cause turtles to suffer a slow and painful death.
Important Contact Information
DoE Turtle Hotline: 938-NEST (938-6378) DoE Chief Conservation Officer: 916-4271 or 911 (For emergencies, including suspected poaching
