Panama City Beach becomes a vital sanctuary for sea turtles from May through October. Sea turtles are still considered endangered, although some populations of sea turtles are showing signs of recovery. Thanks to the measures taken each year to protect turtles during nesting season, the populations of Green Turtles and Loggerhead Turtles have shown progress towards recovery. The conservation efforts taken by the city of Panama City Beach are vital to their success. As these treasured marine animals return to their birthplace to lay eggs, visitors must ensure their safety and success. Here's how you can help:​

Keep the Beach Dark at Night

Sea turtles rely on natural light to navigate the sand. Typically, the moon's reflection on the water helps guide them. Artificial lights can disorient them, leading them away from the ocean.Here's how you can help:​
  • Turn off beachfront lights or use turtle-friendly lighting.
  • Close curtains or blinds in rooms facing the beach.
  • Avoid using flashlights or phone screens on the beach at night.​
  • If you spot a nesting turtle, maintain a distance of at least 50 feet and avoid shining lights on her.​

Leave No Trace

Obstacles on the beach can hinder turtles during nesting and hatchlings during their journey to the sea.Here's how you can help:
  • Fill in any holes or sandcastles.
  • Remove all beach furniture, toys, and trash before sunset.
  • Properly dispose of food waste to deter predators like raccoons.​

Report Nesting or Hatchling Sightings

Every spring, the endangered Loggerhead Sea Turtles begin nesting on the Florida gulf coast. The season typically runs from May through October.  Turtle watch groups (usually volunteers) check the beach each morning for signs of turtles that have laid eggs.Here's how you can help:
  • If you encounter a nesting turtle or hatchlings, do not disturb them—instead,​ call Panama City Beach Police at 850-233-5000.
  • Avoid touching or picking up hatchlings; allow them to reach the ocean independently.

Protect the Dunes

Dunes serve as a natural barrier and are crucial for turtle nesting.Here's how you can help:
  • Use designated walkovers and access points.
  • Avoid walking or placing items on the dunes.

Conservation Efforts in Panama City Beach

The city of Panama City Beach has created 'The Turtle Watch Program' to help with the conservation of sea turtles in the area. The Turtle Watch program employs several key strategies to aid in sea turtle recovery:​

  • Nest Monitoring and Protection: Volunteers patrol approximately 17.5 miles of beach daily during nesting season to locate and mark nests, ensuring they remain undisturbed until hatching.

  • Lighting Ordinances: Artificial lighting can disorient hatchlings, leading them away from the ocean. Panama City Beach has implemented lighting ordinances to reduce beachfront illumination during nesting season. Residents and businesses are encouraged to "Turn Lights Out for Turtles" to minimize this threat. 

  • Public Education: Educational materials and public service announcements, such as "Sea Turtles Dig the Dark," have been distributed to raise awareness about the importance of reducing light pollution and protecting nesting sites. 

If you would like more information or to learn how you can help, visit the Turtle Watch website. Nesting season in Panama City Beach is a beautiful time and offers visitors a unique opportunity to see nature's true beauty. If you want to visit Panama City Beach and get the chance to see it for yourself, book your stay today! 

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