Hero banner image

Sea Turtle Season on Seabrook Island

Sea Turtle Season has arrived in the South Carolina Lowcountry! 

Seabrook Island is a private gated resort community with world-class luxury amenities, Audubon-certified championship golf courses, award-winning tennis facilities, and exclusive vacation rentals immersed in tropical landscapes and nestled along the secluded Atlantic coastline. 

Seabrook Island is also a preserved wildlife sanctuary and critical habitat for sea turtles that migrate back to our coastline year after year, make their nests in the dunes, and wait patiently for their baby hatchlings to emerge and join them back in their journey through the ocean. 

Seabrook Island celebrated the first turtle nest of the season on May 10th and a second nest was found only 4 days later, with the mamma turtle still busy laying her eggs and building her nest on the beach. The excitement is real, and with the 2021 season breaking previous nesting records, we’re hoping to see lots of tiny hatchlings on Seabrook Island this season.


Sea Turtle Season

Sea turtle nesting begins in May. Loggerheads are world travelers – they mate in coastal regions and make long migrations swimming thousands of miles during breeding season to lay their eggs back home, where they first hatched. They navigate their way back home by sensing the invisible lines of the Earth’s magnetic field.

The males remain in the ocean and the female swims to shore laying an average of 4 to 5 nests with over 100 eggs at a time. After an incubation period of approximately 55-65 days, the tiny hatchlings begin to emerge, making their first tracks from the sand dunes down to the Atlantic Ocean. The peak time to view sea turtle hatchlings on Seabrook Island usually falls around July and August.


Where to See Loggerhead Sea Turtles on Seabrook Island

Seabrook Island boasts 3.5 miles of wild, tropical and uncrowded beaches, open only to visiting guests and residents of the island. Sea turtle nests are found above the high tide line from Pelican Beach near the mouth of the North Edisto River (top spot for a sunset!) to North Beach and Captain Sam’s Inlet at the Kiawah River. It’s highly likely time spent on the Seabrook Island beaches will result in a rewarding turtle experience. 

The beaches of Seabrook Island are pet-friendly, but your pet is a predator to nesting sea turtles! Please follow the color coded system and beach rules for pets to protect the sea turtles, otherwise your pooch has plenty to look forward to on pet-friendly Seabrook Island!    

Bohicket Marina is only a short drive (or bike ride!) from Seabrook Island with a wide variety of kayak and paddleboard tours, shrimping and fishing charters, dolphin excursions, and eco-adventures in the serene salt water marshes. With a local guide leading the way, getting on the waterways is one of the best ways to experience personal encounters with the wildlife of Seabrook Island. 


Seabrook Island Turtle Patrol

The Seabrook Island Turtle Patrol is a volunteer organization that protects and preserves the South Carolina loggerheads sea turtles that visit our beaches. The volunteers patrol the beaches daily during nesting and hatching season identifying, protecting, and taking regular inventory of our local Seabrook Island turtle nests and hatchlings.

In 1978, the loggerhead sea turtle was listed as threatened under the US Federal Endangered Species Act, and these magnificent gentle giants of the ocean are in danger of extinction. During your vacation on Seabrook Island, please help us maintain and preserve Seabrook Island’s wildlife habitat and natural resources and respect the rules. 

If you’re interested in learning more about our local sea turtles, the Sea Turtle Care Center at the South Carolina Aquarium on Charleston Harbor offers a unique and interactive experience of the rescue, rehab and release of South Carolina’s sea turtles. If you’re keen to get involved locally during your stay on Seabrook, the Turtle Patrol always welcomes enthusiastic volunteers.


Turtle Nesting Rules

If you find a sea turtle or eggs, please observe only from a distance. It is against the law to walk on the sand dunes, remove any vegetation, and touch or disturb nesting sea turtles, hatchlings or nests. Identified nests are marked with a white pole and orange DNR sign.

Avoid digging holes on the beach as you may uncover a nesting site. If the kiddies (or pooch), start digging, please fill ALL holes, unfilled holes can trap the hatchlings. Knock down your creative sandcastles after your beach day too, creating a clear path for the hatchlings to make their way to the ocean.

Artificial lighting disturbs and disorientates the nesting turtles and hatchlings – do not use flashlights, lanterns, or flash photography on the beaches. If you’re staying at the oceanfront, all lights visible from the beach must be turned off between 9pm and 8am from May and October.

Report any unmarked nests, emerging hatchlings, or injured, stranded or sick sea turtles to Seabrook Island Turtle Patrol at 1-843-310-4280.

Leave only footprints behind on our beaches!


Fun & Fascinating Facts about Sea Turtles

  • Loggerheads are the most common of four turtle species in South Carolina, rare green sea turtles, Kemp’s Ridleys and Leatherbacks also nest on the South Carolina coastline.
  • The name Loggerhead comes from the turtle’s massive head and powerful jaw.
  • Loggerhead sea turtles are the most abundant of all sea turtle species in the US, and the most widespread sea turtle species in the world.
  • Loggerheads are the largest of the hard-shell turtles, full size adults reach about 3-4 feet long and weigh approximately 250 pounds.
  • Loggerheads have a long life span of over 50 years.
  • Weather conditions determine the gender of a loggerhead. Warm summer temperatures result in more female hatchlings, cool summers produce more males.
  • Loggerheads confuse plastic bags in the ocean with their favorite food source, a jellyfish! As little as half a gram of ingested plastic can kill a baby sea turtle. Skip the single-use plastic on Seabrook!

Calling all turtle lovers! Stay oceanfront on Seabrook Island and experience the beauty of these majestic creatures making their way to and from the Atlantic Ocean from your private beach boardwalk. Seabrook Exclusives offers a hand-picked collection of 70+ vacation homes and villas with access to the Seabrook Island Club amenities and miles of secluded shoreline for memorable wildlife experiences on the South Carolina coastline.

You Might Also Like

Kid’s Winter Guide For Seabrook Island, SC 

Step back in time to a world where winter magic meets endless warm-weather adventures! Bordered by Bohicket Creek, the North Edisto River, and the calm Atlantic Ocean, Seabrook Island transports you back in time to a place where quality family time reigns supreme! And, your furry family member is more than welcome!  Nestled in this …

Read More

Main Differences Between Seabrook & Kiawah Island

Seabrook Island and Kiawah Island are neighboring barrier islands off the eastern coast of South Carolina. Both islands feature secluded communities with miles of pristine beaches, maritime forests, sand dunes, and marshes! Although both have the same laid-back island vibe, convenient resort amenities, and luxury vacation rentals, Kiawah and Seabrook each offer their own differences. …

Read More

12 Restaurants Not To Miss For Charleston Restaurant Week

Charleston Restaurant Week is one of the most highly anticipated culinary events in South Carolina, with the opportunity to experience the Lowcountry’s world-renowned cuisine for yourself! Located just 25 miles from Seabrook Island, it’s the perfect spot to top off your bucket list vacation with delicious food, scrumptious cocktails, and classic Southern charm. Hop in …

Read More

Where To Play Pickleball On Seabrook Island 

Welcome to the sun-soaked shores of Seabrook Island, a private oceanfront haven for vacationers craving both leisure and lively activities! Seabrook Island boasts beautiful beaches, bike trails, eco-friendly golf courses, and lush landscapes to immerse yourself in nature – but there’s one particular sports scene taking the island by storm – PICKLEBALL!   Pickleball is more …

Read More

Seabrook Island Winter Event Calendar 2023

Seabrook Island is packed full of fun events all year long. Celebrate this holiday season with 3.5-miles of private beach, miles of meandering nature trails, and endless outdoor pursuits. We love this beachy paradise, especially as a winter escape for serene relaxation, and adventurous holiday events. From temperate weather beach days and world-class winter sports …

Read More

How To Golf Like A Pro On Seabrook Island

Welcome to Seabrook Island, a private oceanfront community where golf meets Lowcountry luxury! Nestled among picturesque natural surroundings, tranquil waterways teeming with wildlife, and beautiful Atlantic beaches, Seabrook Island’s two award-wining Audubon Sanctuary golf courses offer an unparalleled golfing experience surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature.  In 1996, the Seabrook Island Club became …

Read More

How To Paddle Seabrook Island’s Lowcountry Waterways 

Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, North Edisto River, Bohicket Creek, and the Kiawah River (aka Dolphin Highway), Seabrook Island is the perfect destination for paddlers seeking a peaceful paddle or an exciting river adventure in South Carolina’s scenic Lowcountry.  Seabrook Island is home to some of the most unspoiled natural beauty in the Lowcountry region. …

Read More

Grocery Delivery & Services On Seabrook Island

Seabrook Island is a charming, private coastal community that offers breathtaking Lowcountry landscapes, sun-drenched natural beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, and culinary delights you won’t find in your local Walmart! Sure, you can stock up with a bulk shop at a big box store on the drive from Charleston (and we’ll …

Read More

Local Lowcountry Oyster Roast Events 2023

Thanks to a prime location along the lush South Carolina coastline, oysters can be enjoyed year-round on Seabrook Island. The freshly harvested Lowcountry oysters are particularly flavorful and best served in the colder months, or as legend says in the months ending in the letter “R.” Oysters may be an acquired taste, but they are …

Read More

Freshfields Village Fall & Winter Events 2023

The cooler seasons on Seabrook Island are some of the best times to visit as temperatures cool down to the 70’s, leaves blow through the uncrowded streets, and fall activities take place around town, but especially in Freshfields Village. Located at the crossroads of Kiawah Island and Seabrook Island, Freshfields Village continues to buzz with …

Read More

6 Reasons To Spend Winter on Seabrook Island

Seabrook Island is a tiny, eco-friendly barrier island in the beautiful South Carolina islands, a sublime warm weather winter destination to kick the winter blues, escape the cold, and experience a quintessential private island escape, without a passport!    Trade snowflakes for sandy beaches, ski boots for sandals, and end of summer stress for complete serenity …

Read More

How To Bike Around Seabrook Island

Situated only 25 miles from downtown Charleston, Seabrook Island is a luxury gated community open only to residents and guests staying on the island. From the moment you arrive on Seabrook Island, you’re immersed in natural beauty, pristine landscapes, and a pace of life that forces you to slow down and switch to vacation time.  …

Read More

Top Labor Day Weekend Events Near Seabrook Island

There’s no better way to honor Labor Day than by attending local events, relaxing on the beach, and taking a trip to one of America’s top destinations for a private, natural, oceanfront community. Featuring 3.5 miles of pristine beaches, maritime forest, and marshes, it’s the perfect place to sit back, relax, and celebrate. As summer …

Read More

Top 10 Places To Work Remotely On Seabrook Island, SC 

Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of waves crashing against the shore, wildlife wandering the dunes while you take your first sip of coffee with the sunrise, and diving into work with the sun’s warm glow on your shoulders and ocean views as far as the eye can see! Come and turn that dream …

Read More

Childcare & Babysitting On Seabrook Island

Welcome to the magical shores of South Carolina’s Seabrook Island, where sun, sand, and endless smiles abound. On Seabrook Island, it’s easy to embrace the simplicity of a family-focused vacation swapping screen time for sunsets, modern tech for oak-draped nature trails, and cranky dinner times for family fun dancing to live music at Freshfields Village. …

Read More

Top 6 Fishing Charter Companies On Seabrook

With miles of secluded, sandy beaches, thousands of acres of tranquil marsh habitats, and pristine Lowcountry waterways teeming with abundant wildlife and marine life, the beautiful barrier island of Seabrook is a coastal paradise just waiting to be explored!  Seabrook Island is a certified Audubon International Sustainable Community and pristinely preserved as a critical habitat …

Read More

The 5 Best Waterfront Restaurants on Seabrook Island

Combine and satisfy your love for fine food, luxury, and eco-friendly outdoor adventure on the sunny shoreline of South Carolina’s Seabrook Island.  Situated just a stone’s throw from Charleston, ranked one of the best foodie cities in the US, Seabrook Island is a luxury destination with endless activities to work up an appetite, world-class restaurants …

Read More

5 Reasons To Spend Autumn On Seabrook Island

Seabrook Island is a tiny, tranquil enclave surrounded by mesmerizing waterways, maritime forests, and miles of pristine sandy Atlantic beaches. Nestled on the South Carolina coastline, only 25 miles south of historic Charleston, Seabrook Island is a private oceanfront community rich in history, culture, natural beauty and luxury resort amenities for a tropical vacation in …

Read More

Top 8 Ways To Experience Seabrook Island

Only 25 miles from historic Charleston lies a small, secluded, and private barrier island and exclusive oceanfront community immersed in natural beauty, old world charm, warm southern hospitality, and a calming coastal way of life – Welcome to Seabrook Island! Seabrook Island is a vacation destination that delivers a true island escape with over 2,200 …

Read More

Top 11 Local Restaurants in Freshfields Village

Situated at the crossroads to Seabrook & Kiawah Island, Freshfields Village is a charming open-air village with tons of local charm featuring a wide selection of shops, spas, local services, and top-notch restaurants and cafes for foodies to feast. Whether it’s a grab and go to picnic on the Village Green, a quick coffee to refuel after a bike ride, wine tastings with the girls, dining with your pooch, or sophisticated fine dining on southern classics, Freshfields Village is a foodies paradise for both local’s and visitors alike!

Read More

Where To Eat Oysters On Seabrook Island

The South Carolina coastline is not only famous for its miles of beautiful barrier islands and sandy beaches, warm winter weather, outdoor activities and southern charm. The winter months bring thousands of visitors to the Lowcountry coastal towns to savor classic southern seafood, waterfront marsh-to-table dining and the tasty tradition of Lowcountry Oyster Roasts. 

Read More

9 Family-Friendly Holiday Events On Seabrook Island

It’s time to deck the halls, soak up the sunny island weather on miles of beautiful beaches, tee off on oceanfront golf courses, explore miles of family-friendly trails, overindulge in holiday food and enjoy fun family-friendly festivities at the best holiday events on Seabrook Island. 

Read More

7 Best Fall Events Near Seabrook Island, SC

Fall is America’s favorite season and the best time of year to visit the barrier islands of South Carolina on the idyllic Atlantic Coastline. The beauty of the changing fall leaves, no more summer crowds, coastal temperatures and miles of pristine and peaceful sandy beaches await on Seabrook Island, South Carolina.

Read More