Help Protect Miramar Beach’s Sea Turtles

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How You Can Make a Difference

Miramar Beach, Florida, is a cherished nesting ground for several species of sea turtles, including the endangered loggerhead and green sea turtles. Every year, from May 1 through October 31, female turtles return to these sandy shores to lay their eggs, and weeks later, hundreds of tiny hatchlings make their first journey to the Gulf. This incredible natural process is delicate and easily disrupted by human activity.

As a vacation rental guest, you have a unique opportunity to help protect these amazing creatures during your stay. Even small changes in your beach behavior can make a big difference in the safety and success of nesting turtles and their hatchlings. By following the simple yet powerful “Clean. Dark. Flat.” guidelines promoted by the Friends of South Walton Sea Turtles (FOSWST), you can actively support local conservation efforts and help ensure the survival of these beloved marine animals for generations to come.

Keep It Clean

Sea turtles and their hatchlings are vulnerable to beach debris. To ensure their safety:

  • Remove all items: Take everything you brought to the beach back with you, including chairs, umbrellas, toys, and trash. 
  • Avoid plastic waste: Unwrap items before heading to the beach and dispose of packaging properly to prevent it from becoming litter.
  • Participate in cleanups: Join local beach cleanup events or use apps like Clean Swell to track your efforts.

Keep It Dark

Artificial lighting can disorient sea turtles, leading them away from the ocean. To minimize light pollution:

  • Turn off lights: Ensure that outdoor lights at your rental are off at night.
  • Use turtle-safe lighting: If you need illumination, use red-light flashlights or apply turtle-safe filters to your lights.
  • Close blinds: At night, close curtains or blinds to prevent indoor light from spilling onto the beach.

Keep It Flat

Obstacles on the beach can hinder turtles' nesting and hatchlings' journey to the sea. Help by:

  • Filling in holes: Before leaving the beach, fill any holes you've dug.
  • Flattening sandcastles: Smooth out sand structures to provide a clear path for turtles.
  • Avoiding deep excavations: Refrain from digging holes deeper than knee-depth, as they can trap turtles and pose risks to beachgoers.

Report Turtle Activity

If you encounter a sea turtle or hatchling in distress, it's crucial to report it promptly: 

  • South Walton Turtle Watch Hotline: 850-865-4503
  • Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Alert Hotline: 888-404-3922 or text *FWC or #FWC (392)

Avoid approaching or handling turtles; instead, keep a safe distance and contact the appropriate authorities.

Get Involved

Interested in contributing more to sea turtle conservation? FOSWST offers opportunities to become a Volunteer Beach Ambassador, participate in educational programs, and support local conservation initiatives. For more information, friendsofswseaturtles.org.

By embracing these practices, you play a vital role in safeguarding the sea turtles of Miramar Beach. Your efforts ensure that these magnificent creatures continue to grace our shores for generations to come.

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