Sea Turtle Conservation in Port Aransas

The Shell-ebrities of the Sea

Every year, the beaches of Port Aransas welcome some of the Gulf Coast’s most special guests—sea turtles! Most notably, the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, the smallest and rarest sea turtle species in the world, nests right here on our shores. These gentle creatures are a vital part of the marine ecosystem, and protecting them is a community-wide effort.

Dive a Little Deeper

Kemp’s Ridley, Green, and Loggerhead sea turtles have all been spotted on the shores of Port Aransas. The most common sea turtle species found in Port A is the Kemp’s Ridley. These turtles can be found in the water year-round swimming near the large granite rocks on the north, south, and little jetties. They eat shellfish, jellyfish, seaweed, and sargassum.

The main threats to sea turtles are bycatch in fishing gear, marine debris, and pollution in the Gulf. Turtles can become entangled in or consume discarded fishing lines, plastic bags, and balloons.  

Why It Matters

Sea turtles face numerous threats, both natural and human-made. From disorienting beachfront lighting to habitat loss and marine debris, their survival depends on our care and cooperation. That’s why Port Aransas is committed to conservation—ensuring that these incredible animals continue to return to our beaches year after year.

When and Where to Spot Them

Sea turtle nesting season typically runs from April through mid-July. If you're lucky, you might witness a mother turtle laying her eggs or baby hatchlings making their brave dash to the sea. If you see a nesting turtle or hatchlings on the beach, stay quiet, and keep your distance.

If you see a stranded or nesting sea turtle, call the Turtle Hotline: 1-866-TURTLE5.

Meet ARK: Amos Rehabilitation Keep

Located at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute, The Amos Rehabilitation Keep (ARK) is a facility dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sick or injured sea turtles, marine birds, and other coastal wildlife. ARK is an integral part of the conservation efforts in Port Aransas, and your visit or donation helps support their mission.

How You Can Help

Whether you're a visitor or a local, small actions make a big difference. Here’s how you can protect sea turtles during your time in Port A:

• Turn off beach-facing lights at night to avoid disorienting hatchlings

• Keep beaches clean—remove trash, especially plastic and fishing line (join Flynn's Beach Squad)

• Avoid disturbing nests or marked areas

• Fill in holes and flatten sandcastles to ensure turtles have a smooth path to the ocean

• Keep your distance and never attempt to handle a sea turtle