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Each summer, the beaches of the Outer Banks become the birthplace of a natural phenomenon: sea turtle nesting season. From May through September, these iconic animals return to the shoreline to lay their eggs on the same beaches where they were born. It’s a cycle that has played out for centuries, and one that continues today thanks to the tireless work of conservation groups and mindful beachgoers.

Community Effort to Protect Our Turtles

The Sea Turtle Species That Call the OBX Home

Five species of sea turtles can be found in North Carolina waters, including the Kemp's Ridley and Hawksbill, but the most common nesters on the Outer Banks are the loggerhead sea turtle, green sea turtle, and leatherback sea turtle. Loggerheads account for the majority of nests and are listed as a threatened species, while both green and leatherback turtles are considered critically endangered. Leatherbacks are the largest of them all, sometimes weighing over 2,000 pounds!

These turtles lay their eggs on the Outer Banks' nesting beaches, digging deep chambers in the sand before covering them and returning to the sea. Roughly two months later, each sea turtle nest can produce dozens of hatchlings, who emerge and make their way toward the water.

baby leatherback sea turtle on the beach making its way to the water
adult sea turtle makes its way back to water after laying eggs

How We Protect Sea Turtle Nests on the Outer Banks

The Network for Endangered Sea Turtles (N.E.S.T.) is the leading organization for sea turtle assistance and rehabilitation on the OBX. Their volunteers monitor and protect every known nest, ensuring they’re clearly marked and undisturbed. Visitors are asked to stay back from marked areas and avoid walking or placing umbrellas and chairs near potential nesting sites.

The North Carolina Aquarium also plays a role in this effort, especially through its Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation (STAR) Center, where injured sea turtles are treated and released. These combined efforts are essential to the survival of sea turtle populations.

Lights Out for the Hatchlings

Artificial lighting on the beach can disorient hatchlings, pulling them away from the ocean and putting their lives at risk. During nesting season, it’s important to switch off outdoor lights visible from the beach and use red LED flashlights if you’re walking near the shore at night. These red lights are less likely to confuse baby turtles during their critical journey to the ocean.

How You Can Help Protect Sea Turtles While on Vacation

You don’t have to be a biologist to make a difference. Every vacationer can play a role in keeping these beaches safe for sea turtles:

  • Fill in holes in the sand before you leave the beach
  • Flatten sandcastles that could block hatchlings on their way to the ocean
  • Pack out your trash to avoid attracting predators
  • Keep dogs leashed and away from marked nesting sites
  • Avoid flashlights and camera flashes at night
  • Watch where you drive so you don’t harm nests
beach in the outer banks

Stay With a Company That Cares

At Brindley Beach Vacations and Sales, we don’t just rent vacation homes; we care about the place we call home. Members of our team volunteer with local sea turtle patrols, and we proudly support organizations working to protect our OBX wildlife. When you stay with us, you’re supporting a company that believes in preserving the beauty and wildlife of the Outer Banks for generations to come.

Plan your stay today and be part of something meaningful, because protecting sea turtles means protecting the Outer Banks both for future generations and for every hatchling that finds its way home.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Sea Turtles in the Outer Banks

When do sea turtles come to the Outer Banks to lay eggs?
Nesting typically begins in mid-May and continues through September.

Which species of sea turtles come to the Outer Banks?
You'll mostly spot loggerhead, green, and leatherback sea turtles nesting on Outer Banks beaches.

How long does it take for sea turtle eggs to hatch?
Eggs usually hatch after 45 to 70 days, depending on temperature and sand conditions.

Why do I need to use a red light during sea turtle season?
Bright white lights can disorient hatchlings. Red lights help guide them naturally toward the ocean.

How are the nests protected on the Outer Banks?
Volunteers with N.E.S.T. monitor nesting sites, mark them off, and sometimes relocate nests found in danger zones.

How can I help protect the sea turtles of the Outer Banks?
Stay off marked nesting areas, clean up your beach gear, use turtle-safe lighting, and share what you learn with others.