Few animals make divers happier than a sea turtle: calm, ancient and unbothered as it grazes or naps under a ledge. Seven species swim the world's oceans, and several are common on healthy tropical reefs. The best news for anyone reading this is that sea turtles are one of the signature encounters right here on Isla Fuerte. This guide covers the world's turtle hotspots, the best times to see them, and where to find them in Colombia.
The turtles you will meet
On tropical reefs the two most common divers see are the green turtle, a gentle seagrass grazer with a rounded head, and the hawksbill, a critically endangered species with a narrow, pointed beak and beautiful overlapping shell plates.
Both are calm around respectful divers. The golden rule is simple: never touch, chase or ride a turtle, and let it breathe and feed in peace.
The best places to dive with them
- Sipadan, Malaysia: famous for turtles on almost every dive.
- The Great Barrier Reef, Australia: green and hawksbill turtles galore.
- Hawaii: reliable green turtle (honu) encounters.
- The Maldives and the Red Sea: hawksbills on coral reefs.
- Akumal, Mexico: green turtles grazing shallow seagrass.
When to go
Turtles live on their reefs all year, so you can see them in any season, weather and visibility permitting. Nesting season, which varies by region and species, sometimes concentrates adults near beaches and can improve your odds.
Because many turtles rest and feed in shallow water, even snorkelers regularly meet them.
Sea turtles at Isla Fuerte
You do not need a long-haul flight for this one. Sea turtles are one of the most beloved and reliable sightings on the reefs of Isla Fuerte. Hawksbills glide over the coral gardens and green turtles graze the seagrass, and they are gentle enough that patient divers get long, close encounters.
It is exactly the wonder people fly around the world for, waiting on a Colombian reef.
Dive with turtles, the Nautilus way
At Nautilus we take turtle encounters seriously, keeping respectful distance and following PADI AWARE conservation practices so these endangered animals stay wild and calm. Gentle beginner sites like Rosa Vieja are perfect for your first turtle, even on a Discover Scuba dive.
Come meet them in warm 27 to 29 degree water. See our courses and dives and find the turtle sites on the interactive dive map.
