The 15 States Where Sea Turtles Make Their Nests

Sea turtle nesting season is one of the most magical times of the year for many people. Luckily, there are several places throughout the country where you can observe this adorable and awe-inspiring phenomenon. Although sea turtles have been spotted along much of the East Coast of the United States, several locations have larger populations than others. Let’s explore the 15 states across America where sea turtles are most likely to make their nests, in no particular ranked order.

1. Texas

Believe it or not, Texas has several beaches where sea turtles have been found nesting. Although this state isn’t home to as many sea turtles as other states, locals can still enjoy observing these animals at several locations. For example, Padre Island National Seashore is famous for its abundance of these creatures. Interested visitors can set out from April to July to observe these adorable animals in their natural habitat.

2. Georgia

Georgia is another state where sea turtles enjoy setting up camp. Several beaches along the coastline have become popular sea turtle nesting destinations, and visitors can observe these animals at places like Jekyll Island and Sea Island.

3. Florida

With so many beaches, it makes perfect sense that Florida is home to a booming population of sea turtles. According to the Sea Turtle Conservancy, almost 90% of all sea turtle nesting in America takes place in this state! If you’re interested in observing this phenomenon for yourself, taking a trip to Florida may just be your best bet.

4. South Carolina

South Carolina is a wonderful destination for observing sea turtles. However, there are certain things to keep in mind while engaging in this activity. Try your best not to alert other animals as to where the sea turtles are nesting. Raccoons, dogs, and birds are all notorious for eating their eggs. In addition, try to avoid interfering with the nesting process, and enjoy watching from a safe distance.

5. Hawaii

Hawaii is a bucket list destination for many. Luckily, you can also see sea turtles during their nesting season if you plan your trip around April or May. While many sea turtles are found throughout Atlantic waters, quite a few are native to the Pacific as well.

6. North Carolina

Although there aren’t as many sea turtle nesting sites in North Carolina as there are in South Carolina, this is still a popular nesting destination for these animals. Individuals interested in observing these animals can head out to North Topsail Beach for the best odds.

7. Virginia

Virginia is a beautiful, warm state that many sea turtles find welcoming. According to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, “Sea turtles typically occur in Virginia from May – October but may stay through late fall/early winter if water temperatures remain warm. The majority of these turtles are juveniles. The highly productive waters of the Chesapeake Bay and the seaside lagoon system of the Delmarva Peninsula represent important developmental habitat for growing turtles.”

8. Delaware

Sea turtle nesting in Delaware is quite rare as these animals prefer to take up residence as far as North Carolina. Despite this, several nests have been found throughout this state in the past!

9. Maryland

Maryland is home to several species of sea turtles including the green sea turtle, the loggerhead sea turtle, the leatherback sea turtle, Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle, and the Hawksbill sea turtle. However, many of these animals prefer to nest elsewhere.

10. New Jersey

Surprisingly a handful of sea turtles make it up relatively far north in the United States. In fact, many species have been spotted along the Jersey Shore throughout the years. While they may take up residence here, nesting is almost unheard of. Despite this, it has happened in the past, and it may happen again in the future.

11. New York

Although it is somewhat rare, sea turtles are spotted in New York from time to time, especially during the warmer months. However, their nests are extremely uncommon up north compared to the southern states. Despite this, some sea turtles have chosen to lay their eggs across the coastlines of New York in the past.

12. Connecticut

Seeing sea turtle nests in Connecticut is exceedingly rare as these animals typically prefer to lay their eggs in warmer locations, however, it is not unheard of. it might be a little bit challenging to spot them so far up north, but if you get lucky, you might just catch a glimpse of a nest made by one of the four species of sea turtle native to Connecticut.

13. Rhode Island

According to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, sea turtles are common visitors along Rhode Island shores. However, much like in Connecticut, many sea turtles prefer to lay their eggs in warmer locations, so finding a nest here is extremely uncommon. However, it has happened in the past, it’s just a bit harder to find.

14. Massachusets

While sea turtles are welcome visitors of Massachusets, they very seldom nest here due to the short season and colder temperatures. Despite this, some turtles in the past have decided to set up camp in this state, giving locals the rare opportunity to observe them as they grow up and venture out into their own.

15. Louisiana

Louisiana is home to several species of sea turtles, and many of them choose to make their nests throughout this state. Two of the most popular destinations for sea turtle nesting are the Chandeleur Islands and the Grand Isles.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Mesut Eksi/Shutterstock.com