Bali Sea Turtle Society

About Bali Sea Turtles

Bali Sea Turtle Society is a non-profit organisation created in 2011 by the people of Bali with the goal of saving sea turtles and their environment and creating public awareness about sea turtle conservation.

The organisation is in the centre of Kuta, a crowded tourist region that threatens sea turtle eggs, which must be collected and moved to a secure site.

Indonesian Sea Turtle Species

Six of Indonesia’s seven sea turtle species can be found in Bali.

  • Green turtles (Chelonia mydas)
  • hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata)
  • olive ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea)
  • leatherback turtles (Dermochelys coracea)
  • loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta)
  • flatback turtles (Natator depressus)

Collaboration with Local Communities

Bali Sea Turtle Society educates and involves locals and visitors in its Community-Based Conservation activities, which include sea turtle nest preservation, human education, campaigns, and hatchling release.

Visitors can pay a nominal payment and join the group to release newborn turtles, which the society organises.

The Turtle Rangers 

The Bali Sea Turtle Society established “Turtle Rangers” in 2019, who patrol the beach every night in search of mother sea turtles who come out to lay their eggs.

The rangers care for the mother turtle and transport the eggs from the beach to the hatchery at the Kuta headquarters of the charity.

The eggs of sea turtles mature and hatch around 45-60 days, and the baby sea turtles are released into the ocean the day after hatching.

Seasons for Sea Turtle Nesting and Hatching

The nesting season for sea turtles in Bali lasts from March to September, with the hatching season lasting from April to October.

Baby sea turtles are released practically every day in June, July, and August, making it the peak season for hatchlings.

The Hatchlings’ Release

Participate in the Bali Sea Turtle Society’s releasing of newborn turtles into the ocean. Visitors can collect their newborn turtles in a tiny plastic bath and participate for a nominal donation.

Please keep in mind that the newborn turtles are just a day old and have highly sensitive eyes to flash photography.

Where Can I Release Sea Turtles in Bali?

You can release sea turtles in Kuta Beach in south Bali; the quickest way to discover the turtle release location is to look for the large turtle monument.

Sea turtles are exclusively released on certain days and at specified times when the beach is less crowded.

To find out when the next sea turtle release will take place, visit the Bali Sea Turtle Society’s website.

How to Get There

Conclusion

The Bali Sea Turtle Society is committed to safeguarding sea turtles and their habitats, as well as creating public awareness about their significance.

Visitors to Bali can help the organisation by taking part in the release of newborn turtles and learning about their activities.

Bali Sea Turtle FAQs

Where can you see sea turtles in Bali?

In Bali, Jembrana Regency’s beaches are key sites for sea turtle conservation. Here, you can spot various species including the Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle, and Leatherback Turtle.

Is it turtle season in Bali?

The nesting season for sea turtles in Bali runs from March to September, while the hatching season extends from April to October.

Where is Turtle Beach in Bali?

Turtle Beach in Bali is located in Tanjung Benoa. It’s a green turtle breeding area, managed by the local community with support from the Bali Government.

Can you see turtles at Blue Lagoon Bali?

Yes, at Blue Lagoon in Bali, you can observe large turtles during a snorkelling trip, along with other marine life such as colourful fish, coral, and occasionally medium-sized octopuses.

Where in Bali are you guaranteed to see turtles?

The Gili Islands, near Bali, offer a high chance of seeing turtles. These islands are known for their dense turtle populations, allowing for opportunities to swim alongside them.

Where is the best place to swim with turtles in Bali?

Gili Trawangan is renowned for snorkelling with turtles. It’s the most visited of the Gili Islands, known for its vibrant atmosphere and pristine waters.

Are there turtles in Seminyak?

Yes, turtles can be spotted on Seminyak Beach, particularly in front of The Oberoi, between May and October.

What is the best season for sea turtles? 

The best season aligns with the nesting and hatching periods, from March to October. 

How big are sea turtles in Bali?

Adult turtles in Bali can reach up to 1.2 meters in length and weigh as much as 300 kg.

Where can I snorkel with turtles in Bali?

The Gili Islands, especially Gili Trawangan, are ideal for snorkelling with turtles. These islands offer guided turtle swimming tours.

Is Turtle Island in Bali worth visiting?

Yes, Turtle Island in Bali is worth visiting, particularly for those interested in water activities and turtle conservation.

Are there turtles in Nusa Lembongan?

Nusa Lembongan, near Bali, is home to Green and Hawksbill turtles, often spotted during dives.

Can you see turtles in Nusa Penida?

Nusa Penida, known for its coral reefs, is a habitat for Hawksbill and Green turtles, as well as Manta rays and Ocean sunfish.

Is the turtle release in Bali ethical?

Ethical considerations are crucial when participating in turtle releases in Bali. Only a few places offer ethical experiences, emphasizing the importance of wild turtles’ well-being over tourist entertainment.

What kind of turtles are in Bali?

Bali is home to six turtle species: Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Olive Ridley, Leatherback Sea Turtle, Flatback Sea Turtle, and Loggerhead Sea Turtle.

How much does it cost to swim with turtles in Bali?

The cost for a snorkelling trip with turtle conservation in Bali is approximately AUD 65 per person.

Where can I release sea turtles in Bali?

Sea turtle releases in Bali are conducted at Kuta Beach by the Bali Sea Turtle Society (BSTS). Look for the large turtle statue on the sidewalk as a landmark.