Picture this: You’re strolling down the beach after dark, listening to the waves whispering secrets. You catch movements in the sand. Little bodies emerge and head toward the Gulf like they’ve got a dinner reservation. Your heart does a little tumble. That, Beachballer, is turtle magic in action. If you’re vacationing on the Alabama Gulf Coast, you’re in prime turtle territory this time of year during nesting season. Let’s shell-ebrate these little sea travelers with the scoop on how, when, and where to spot them and how you can help.

Slow and Steady Wins the Nest

From May through October, the Alabama coast transforms into turtle town as endangered sea turtles return to our white sand beaches to nest. Mama turtles, mostly loggerheads with the occasional Kemp’s ridley or green, crawl ashore under the moonlight, dig sandy cradles, and carefully cover dozens of eggs before slipping silently back into the Gulf. After about 55 to 70 days, depending on the sand’s temperature, the hatchlings dig their way up and make a determined dash for the water. It is one of nature’s sweetest races, a tiny marathon that never fails to melt hearts.

Nest Spotting 101

If you want to play Turtle Detective, early mornings and late evenings are your best bets. Look for roped off or staked areas on the sand with posted signs. These mark active sea turtle nests. You might also notice distinct tracks in the sand that look like a tractor tire pattern leading from the water to the dune line. Fresh tracks in the morning are a good sign that a mama turtle visited the night before. While hatchlings usually emerge under cover of darkness, keeping your eyes open for these subtle clues can give you a glimpse into the secret life of sea turtles.

Turtle Watching Tips: Be a Good Beach Neighbor

Want to enjoy sea turtle season without disturbing nature? It does not take much to make a big difference. Here are five simple ways to help our flippered friends while still making the most of your beach walks:

1. Moonlight, Not Flashlights
   Hatchlings find the Gulf by following the glow of the moon. Even small artificial lights like porch bulbs, flashlights, or phone screens can throw them off course. Keep beachside lighting off or shielded after dark.
2. Sandcastles Are for People, Not Turtles
   Sandcastles and deep pits may be fun for families, but they can trap or block hatchlings. Smooth things out before you leave the beach so the little ones have a clear runway to the Gulf.
3. Trash Travels, Do Not Let It
   Even small bits of litter can confuse or harm sea turtles. If you carried it to the beach, carry it back home. A clean beach is a safe beach.
4. Give Them the VIP Treatment
   If you see a nesting mama or a group of hatchlings, admire from at least 30 feet away. Stay quiet, stay low, and never use flash. Red lights are the safest option. Think of it as rolling out the red carpet, not the paparazzi flashbulbs.
5. See Something, Say Something
   Spot a turtle on the beach? Call the Share the Beach Hotline at (866) SEA TURTLE. The Share the Beach program, run by the Alabama Coastal Foundation, patrols and protects nests all summer long, but they rely on the public to help. Their motto is simple: keep the beaches CLEAN, DARK and FLAT. That is exactly what the little ones need.

Bonus Tip: Sunrise Surprises
Try a dawn beach walk or attend a Share the Beach guided patrol for your best chance at spotting tracks or learning more from the pros. Even if you do not catch a nesting mama or hatchlings, every walk feels more meaningful when you know what to look for.

As we like to say down here, if you cannot lend a hand, at least do not trip them up.

Small Flippers, Big Impact

Watching dozens of hatchlings burst through the sand and flap their tiny flippers toward the Gulf is one of those rare moments that stays with you forever. It is equal parts bravery, desperation, and wonder. You might hear gasps, see tears, and find yourself whispering, “Go, little one, go.”

But beyond the heart melting cuteness, sea turtles are crucial to the Gulf Coast ecosystem. They help balance seagrass beds and coral reefs, which in turn support fish, crabs, shrimp, and all sorts of sea life we love. Protecting them is protecting the very heartbeat of our coast. That is why nesting season feels so magical. You are not just walking on the beach. You are walking alongside one of nature’s most enduring stories. Want to learn more? Check out joinacf.org/stb for all the details.

Coastal Magic Awaits

When you plan your time in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, or Fort Morgan, keep your eyes peeled for turtle tracks in the sand, soft trembles beneath your feet, or the flicker of movement under starlight. Snap your sunset pictures, soak up the waves, but let the turtles steal the spotlight. And when you are ready for a place to call home while you watch the story unfold, BEACHBALL PROPERTIES has you covered. Our vacation rentals put you just steps from turtle territory, cozy and comfortable with the Gulf at your doorstep. Because being a Beachballer means more than taking a trip. It means being part of the story.

Come Have A Ball At The Beach!

– Ginger & Hunter Harrelson