Quick answer
In February you can watch sea turtles in Sri Lanka in two main ways. At Rekawa, near Tangalle, a community conservation project runs guided night visits to see green turtles nesting, which happens year-round, with sightings common but not guaranteed. At Hikkaduwa and Polhena, turtles feed on seagrass in the shallows and can be seen while snorkelling on calm February days. Avoid hatcheries that keep turtles in tanks, never touch or feed turtles, and do not use torches or flash on nesting beaches.
Key takeaways
- Rekawa offers guided night visits to see nesting turtles.
- Green turtles nest year-round, so February works well.
- Hikkaduwa and Polhena offer snorkelling with feeding turtles.
- Avoid hatcheries that keep turtles in tanks for display.
- Never use torches or flash on nesting beaches.
Turtles in Sri Lankan waters
Five species of sea turtle nest in Sri Lanka: green, olive ridley, leatherback, loggerhead and hawksbill. Green turtles are the most common, nesting on many southern beaches throughout the year.
Olive ridleys, leatherbacks and loggerheads nest in smaller numbers, with some seasonal peaks. Hawksbills are mainly seen on reefs. All are endangered or vulnerable and protected by law.
Threats include beach development, light pollution, plastic, fishing nets and egg collection. Conservation projects work with local communities to protect nesting beaches.
- →Five nesting species.
- →Green turtles most common.
- →All protected by law.
Night visits at Rekawa
Rekawa beach, about 15 minutes east of Tangalle, is one of the most important nesting sites in Sri Lanka. A community conservation project, set up to protect nests and provide income for former egg collectors, runs guided night visits.
Visitors wait at the project centre while guides patrol the beach. When a turtle comes ashore and begins nesting, small groups are led quietly to watch from a short distance. Visits can last several hours, depending on when turtles arrive.
Torches and flash photography are not allowed, as light disorients turtles and hatchlings. Guides use dim red lights.
Watching a nesting turtle is a slow, quiet experience. The turtle digs a body pit and an egg chamber with her flippers, lays around a hundred eggs, covers them carefully and returns to the sea. The whole process can take an hour or more, and guides explain each stage in whispers.
- →Community conservation project.
- →Wait for the guides to call you.
- →No torches or flash.
Snorkelling with turtles
Hikkaduwa's protected reef, close to shore in the northern part of the beach, is the easiest place in Sri Lanka to snorkel with turtles. Green turtles feed on seagrass in the shallows and are used to people.
Polhena's Coral Island, near Matara, is another shallow reef where turtles are often seen. February's calm seas and good visibility make both excellent.
Do not touch or feed the turtles. Feeding them seaweed, a common practice at Hikkaduwa, disrupts their natural behaviour and diet.
Sea turtles can also be seen from the shore at some beaches, surfacing to breathe just beyond the waves. Unawatuna, Mirissa and Weligama all have occasional sightings, especially on calm February mornings.
- →Hikkaduwa: easiest turtle snorkelling.
- →Polhena: shallow reef.
- →Do not touch or feed.
Hatcheries: what to look for
Many hatcheries along the south-west coast, especially between Bentota and Hikkaduwa, collect eggs and release hatchlings. Some do valuable work; others keep turtles in tanks for tourists and release hatchlings at the wrong times.
Look for hatcheries that release hatchlings promptly at night, do not keep adult turtles in tanks for display and work with conservation groups. Ask how eggs are sourced.
Watching nesting in the wild, as at Rekawa, is generally a better experience for both visitors and turtles.
Watching responsibly
On nesting beaches, keep a respectful distance, stay behind the turtle, keep quiet and do not use torches or flash. Follow guides' instructions.
While snorkelling, keep at least a few metres away, do not chase turtles and never stand on coral.
Reduce plastic use and choose hotels that limit beach lighting.
- →Keep distance and stay quiet.
- →No light on nesting beaches.
- →Reduce plastic use.
Planning turtle watching in February
Stay in Tangalle for Rekawa, and in Hikkaduwa or Unawatuna for snorkelling. Both fit easily into a south coast stay.
Night visits at Rekawa start in the evening, so plan a light dinner beforehand and bring water, insect repellent and patience.
The planners at Lankan Stays & Trails often include a Rekawa night and a Hikkaduwa snorkel on February south coast routes for travellers who love wildlife.
Frequently asked questions
Can I see turtles in Sri Lanka in February?
Yes. Green turtles nest at Rekawa near Tangalle year-round, and guided night visits run every evening. Turtles also feed on reefs at Hikkaduwa and Polhena, where snorkelling is excellent in February's calm, clear water.
How do turtle night visits at Rekawa work?
Visitors wait at the project centre while guides patrol the beach. When a turtle comes ashore and begins nesting, small groups are led quietly to watch. Visits can last several hours. Torches and flash are not allowed, and sightings are common but not guaranteed.
Where can I snorkel with turtles in Sri Lanka?
Hikkaduwa's protected reef is the easiest place, with green turtles feeding in the shallows. Polhena's Coral Island, near Matara, is another option. Do not touch or feed the turtles, and keep a respectful distance.
Are turtle hatcheries ethical?
Some are, some are not. Choose hatcheries that release hatchlings promptly at night, do not keep adult turtles in tanks for display and work with conservation groups. Watching nesting in the wild, as at Rekawa, is generally a better choice.
Why are torches not allowed on nesting beaches?
Light disorients nesting turtles, which may abandon nesting, and hatchlings, which use natural light to find the sea. Guides use dim red lights. Flash photography is also banned for the same reason.
Which turtle species nest in Sri Lanka?
Five species: green, olive ridley, leatherback, loggerhead and hawksbill. Green turtles are the most common and nest year-round on southern beaches. All are endangered or vulnerable and protected by law.
Is turtle watching at Rekawa suitable for children?
Yes, for children who can stay quiet and patient for a few hours in the evening. Waiting times vary, so bring snacks and water. Younger children may find the late night difficult. Guides are used to families and explain the process in a way children enjoy.