Rekawa Turtle Watch, located on Rekawa Beach near Tangalle in southern Sri Lanka, is a renowned community-based turtle conservation project dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtles. It is one of the few places in the world where visitors can witness turtles nesting in their natural habitat.
Every night, guided by local conservationists, visitors can observe five species of sea turtles—Green, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley, and Leatherback—coming ashore to lay their eggs. The project promotes eco-friendly tourism, ensuring minimal disturbance to the turtles through strict guidelines like no flash photography and red-light-only viewing.
Established by local environmental groups, the program provides alternative livelihoods for former egg poachers, transforming them into turtle guardians and guides. It also raises awareness about marine conservation and sustainable tourism.
Rekawa Turtle Watch offers a rare, meaningful experience where travelers can connect with nature while contributing directly to the preservation of Sri Lanka’s marine wildlife.
