Witness the miracle of newborn Olive Ridley sea turtles scrambling to the Pacific at sunrise or dusk — then glide by kayak through the La Bocana mangrove estuary spotting roseate spoonbills, crocodiles, and howler monkeys.
What to expect
The experience opens at a certified sea-turtle sanctuary on Huatulco's protected coast, where conservation staff explain the Olive Ridley nesting programme before releasing a clutch of hatchlings that race instinctively toward the surf — a genuinely emotional, once-in-a-lifetime moment. From there, your group boards two-person kayaks and paddles silently into the La Bocana mangrove labyrinth, where a naturalist identifies over 30 bird species, resident American crocodiles, and the explosive calls of howler monkeys in the canopy above.
Good to know
Turtle releases are seasonal (July–January peak); confirm availability when booking. The full experience runs about 4 hours and returns to the pier well before all-aboard. Bring binoculars if you own them, though the guide carries a spotting scope. Wear neutral-coloured clothing to avoid startling wildlife.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Santa Cruz Huatulco — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Santa Cruz Huatulco
- Private Yacht Charter: Huatulco's Nine Bays at Your Pace
- Copalitilla Magic Waterfalls: Full-Day Jungle & Cascade Trek
- Huatulco National Park: Guided Snorkel & Marine Reserve Dive
- Archaeological Copalita: Zapotec Pyramids, Forest & Riverside Hike
- Huatulco Coffee & Flavors of Oaxaca: Farm-to-Table Cultural Immersion