Tortugueros Las Playitas
Camino Internacional, Todos Santos, Mexico, 23300
Three species of sea turtles lay their eggs along the coast of boho-chic Todos Santos—and are helped in their endeavors by Tortugueros Las Playitas, a renowned sea turtle conservation sanctuary. A thriving organization and hotbed of eco-friendly activity, Las Playitas offers volunteer opportunities in conservation, and helps run a limited number of eco-adventures.
The basics
Tortugueros Las Playitas serves as a nesting ground for olive ridley, leatherback, and black sea turtles. Visitors can help these magnificent endangered creatures by volunteering or taking part in the sanctuary’s “Biologist for a Day” program, in which participants help monitor nests, care for hatchlings, and potentially assist with releases into the wild. Las Playitas also organizes educational programs for children and eco-adventures into the wild, such as whale-watching trips, snorkeling excursions, guided hikes, and even surf lessons.
Things to know before you go
The sanctuary is ideal for families interested in wildlife and conservation efforts.
Hatchling releases are open to the public and free of charge.
The Biologist for a Day program is free for Mexican families, but has a suggested donation for foreigners; it’s recommended for adults and children 6 years and older.
Children 6-14 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
How to get there
Tortugueros Las Playitas is located near the town of Todos Santos on the Pacific coast of Baja California Sur, Mexico. Travelers can reach Todos Santos by car or bus from major cities like La Paz or Cabo San Lucas. From Todos Santos, it’s about a 12-minute drive out of the center, onto Las Playitas Street, and then west on Internacional Street toward Playa los Mangos and Playa Tunas.
When to get there
The best time to visit Tortugueros Las Playitas is during the sea turtle nesting season, which typically runs from October through May—the hatchling releases begin in December and run through April or May. However, keep in mind that the season may vary depending on the species, weather conditions, and environmental factors.
What do Tortugueros Las Playitas volunteers do?
Volunteering at Tortugueros Las Playitas is one of the most rewarding activities in Todos Santos. Sign up well ahead of time, commit to volunteer for one week (the Biologist for a Day program is a 1-day alternative), and prepare to spend your time helping out on secluded beaches. Volunteers assist biologists with relocating nests, collecting valuable data, and releasing hatchlings, along with keeping the beaches clean.
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