Pleasure Island Sea Turtles

The Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Project is a local nonprofit run by passionate volunteers who are dedicated to protecting sea turtles at every stage of their lives—from nest incubation and tiny hatchlings to full-grown adults. They focus on hands-on conservation and education to help ensure these amazing creatures thrive for generations to come.

 During nesting season, from May 1 through August 31, the team heads out daily to patrol the beaches from the southern end of Kure Beach all the way up to the northern end of Carolina Beach, including Freeman Park, keeping a watchful eye out for nests and hatchlings.

Sea turtle nesting season is a special time on Pleasure Island, and a few small actions can go a long way in helping protect these amazing creatures.  Whether you’re visiting for a week or call the coast home, here’s how you can help:

• If you see a sea turtle in distress, don’t touch or move it. Give it plenty of space and call 911 so trained responders can help. Or call the Pleasure Island Sea Turtle Hotline at 888-290-1065.
• Turn off or dim beach-facing lights at night—bright lights can confuse nesting turtles and hatchlings trying to find the ocean.
• Fill in holes and knock down sandcastles before you leave the beach so turtles don’t get trapped.
• Remove beach chairs, umbrellas, and toys each evening to keep the shoreline clear and safe.
• Avoid driving or walking on dunes—they’re protected and important nesting areas.
• Keep a respectful distance if you’re lucky enough to see a nesting turtle or hatchlings.

Sharing our beaches with sea turtles is part of what makes this area so special. Thanks for helping keep Pleasure Island a safe place for them to nest and grow—now and for generations to come.