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wildlife · Santa Cruz Huatulco

Baby Sea Turtle Release & Birdwatching at La Bocana Estuary

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.

Book it with
Shore Excursions Group — Huatulco Birdwatching Guided Exploration
From USD 79 per person (guided small-group wildlife tour)
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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.

Seabourn · Seabourn Quest
19 nights · calls at Santa Cruz Huatulco
from $8,998
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