Habaraduwa Turtle Hatchery
A vital conservation center protecting sea turtles, offering educational experiences and the chance to witness baby turtle releases.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for turtle releases
Habaraduwa Turtle Hatchery
Best Time
Best chance for turtle releases
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital conservation center protecting sea turtles, offering educational experiences and the chance to witness baby turtle releases.
"An excellent place to see turtles, with a knowledgeable guide and the chance to release hatchlings!"
🎯 Arrive for the Release
Check release times upon arrival for a heartwarming sight!
🤝 Support Conservation
Your entry fee directly aids turtle protection efforts.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baby Turtle Release
Witness the incredible moment tiny hatchlings are released into the ocean. A truly unforgettable experience for all ages.
Interactive Turtle Encounters
Gently touch and learn about various sea turtle species under expert guidance. An educational and hands-on experience.
Rescued Turtle Rehabilitation
See injured or sick turtles being cared for, offering a glimpse into vital conservation efforts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Maximum Impact
Understanding Conservation Efforts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive for the Release
Check release times upon arrival for a heartwarming sight!
🤝 Support Conservation
Your entry fee directly aids turtle protection efforts.
✋ Gentle Interaction
Touch turtles only with staff supervision.
📚 Educational Experience
Engage with guides to learn about turtle life cycles.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive for the Release
Check release times upon arrival for a heartwarming sight!
🤝 Support Conservation
Your entry fee directly aids turtle protection efforts.
✋ Gentle Interaction
Touch turtles only with staff supervision.
📚 Educational Experience
Engage with guides to learn about turtle life cycles.
🚗 Easy Access
A short tuk-tuk ride from Unawatuna.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Habaraduwa Turtle Hatchery for its heartwarming conservation efforts and educational experience. The opportunity to interact with and release baby turtles is a major highlight, leaving a lasting positive impression. While the tanks for larger turtles are noted as small, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it as a must-visit for animal lovers and families.
"Wow - what a special experience! This place helps to support the sea turtle population by giving them a safe place to hatch and grow during the precarious first few weeks. Our guide was great and we learned a lot about the turtle life cycle. Getting to hold a 1-day old sea turtle was definitely a trip highlight!"
Gemma M
"An excellent place to see turtles. The guide we had was excellent, really friendly and knowledgeable. I liked that all the turtles here who are rescued are returned to the sea once they are better. An interactive place where you can touch the turtles!"
Sara Jones
"I recently visited a turtle hatchery and had a truly heartwarming experience. The place is dedicated to the conservation of endangered sea turtles, and it was inspiring to see the care and effort put into protecting these gentle creatures.
The staff were knowledgeable and passionate about their work. They explained the hatching process, how they rescue turtle eggs from the beach, and how the baby turtles are safely released into the ocean. We also saw injured turtles being treated and cared for until they’re strong enough to return to the sea.
The environment was clean, calm, and very educational. I felt happy knowing that places like this exist to protect marine life. It’s definitely a must-visit for animal lovers and anyone who cares about nature and conservation."
Savunthararasa Kajanan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Habaraduwa Turtle Hatchery is conveniently located and a short tuk-tuk ride away from Unawatuna. Many visitors report it's a quick and easy journey, making it a popular day trip.
Tuk-tuks are the most common and recommended mode of transport for reaching the hatchery from nearby areas like Unawatuna or Galle.
Yes, the hatchery is well-known and usually easy to find. Asking your tuk-tuk driver for the 'Habaraduwa Sea Turtle Hatchery' will get you there directly.
While possible depending on your starting point, walking might be time-consuming. Tuk-tuks offer a faster and more comfortable option, especially in the Sri Lankan heat.
If you are arriving by private vehicle, there are usually parking spaces available near the hatchery entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for tourists is approximately 2,000 LKR per person, with free entry for children. Locals may have a smaller fee.
No, advance booking is generally not required. You can purchase tickets upon arrival at the hatchery.
The hatchery is typically open daily, but it's best to check their specific operating hours upon arrival or inquire locally, especially if you plan to visit during holidays.
Yes, there is usually a small additional fee if you wish to participate in releasing baby turtles into the sea.
While children often get free entry, specific group discounts are not widely advertised. It's worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
🎫 🐢 Onsite Experience
You'll see various tanks with turtles of different sizes, from tiny hatchlings to larger rescued adults. Educational posters explain their life cycle and conservation efforts.
Yes, under the supervision of caretakers, you can gently hold baby turtles and learn about them.
The best time for releases is typically in the late afternoon, but it's advisable to check with the staff upon your arrival for the day's schedule.
Visitors consistently report that the turtles appear well-maintained and cared for by passionate staff. +1
Absolutely! It's a highly educational and interactive experience that children often find fascinating.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of the turtles and avoid using flash, which can disturb them.
The baby turtle releases and the moments you can gently hold a hatchling are prime photo opportunities.
Yes, you can usually take photos during the release process, but always follow the staff's instructions.
Avoid intrusive photography. Focus on capturing the educational and conservation aspects respectfully.
A camera with good low-light capabilities or a smartphone with a decent camera will work well, especially for capturing the details of the turtles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a safe and engaging environment, and the staff are excellent at making the experience accessible and enjoyable for all ages. The hatchery's conservation message also instills a sense of responsibility towards the environment in children. Plan your visit for the late afternoon to catch the turtle releases for maximum excitement.
🌍 Eco-Conscious Travelers
Engage with the knowledgeable staff to learn more about marine conservation in Sri Lanka and how you can contribute to protecting ocean life. Your entry fee directly supports these vital operations, making your visit a meaningful contribution to preserving biodiversity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Conservation Mission
Beyond egg protection, the hatchery also serves as a rehabilitation center for injured or sick sea turtles. These turtles may have been harmed by fishing nets, plastic pollution, or other environmental hazards.
Visitors can observe these turtles receiving care, offering a poignant reminder of the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems. The staff's dedication to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing these ancient mariners is truly inspiring. Your visit contributes directly to these vital conservation efforts. The modest entry fee helps fund the care of the turtles, the maintenance of the facilities, and the ongoing work to protect sea turtle populations. It's an opportunity to learn, connect with nature, and support a worthy cause.
Experiencing the Hatchery: What to Expect
A highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to interact with the turtles. Under the careful supervision of the caretakers, you can gently hold baby turtles and learn about their unique characteristics.
The most anticipated event is often the baby turtle release, usually held in the late afternoon. Witnessing these tiny turtles make their first journey to the sea is a profoundly moving experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit