Rekawa Turtle Beach
Southern Province
About Rekawa Turtle Beach
Rekawa, a fishing village ten kilometres east of Tangalle, guards one of the most important sea-turtle nesting beaches in the Indian Ocean. Five of the world's seven species - green, olive ridley, hawksbill, loggerhead, and the giant leatherback - haul themselves onto this sand at night to lay eggs, with green turtles arriving almost nightly year-round. The community-run Turtle Conservation Project runs responsible night watches: you wait in darkness until a nesting female is settled, then observe under red light as she lays and buries her clutch - an unforgettable, goosebump experience. By day, the adjacent Rekawa lagoon rewards birdwatchers with kingfishers, herons, and waders among the mangroves. There are no big resorts, no beach bars - just sand, sea, and one of nature's oldest rituals.
Top Activities
- ✓Night turtle watch with the conservation project
- ✓Birdwatching on Rekawa lagoon
- ✓Mangrove boat trips
- ✓Quiet beach walks
- ✓Village cycling
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Turtle watches start around 8pm and can involve waiting - bring patience, not flash cameras.
White light and noise are forbidden on the beach at night; follow the guides.
Full-moon nights around April–July have the highest arrivals.
Quick Info
Best Time
Year-round; April to July for peak nesting
Weather
Dry and sunny November–April; nesting continues year-round.
Estimated Daily Budget
6.0463°N, 80.8508°E
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