Turtle Walks at
Sebastian Inlet State Park
Turtle walks at Sebastian Inlet State Park at Melbourne Beach begin at 9 pm during the months of June and July.
Reservations are made beginning May 1 through the Friends of Sebastian Inlet State Park website. Information is scarce until the last minute. Based on last year, the ranger guided turtle walks will be held two nights a week, on Thursday and Friday between June 1 and July 31. There is a donation of $15 per person that must be paid in advance. The regular park entry fee of $8 per vehicle may also apply.
Loggerhead covering her nest
The
program is conducted in almost all conditions, including
rain, unless lightning is present. With a 75% success record, the excursions may last as late as 1 am. Due to the late hour and the need to make a 3-mile roundtrip beach trek, there is a minimum age of 7. Group size is limited to 20.
The walk departs from the Sebastian Fishing Museum located on the south side of the Sebastian Inlet Bridge. To reach it, enter Sebastian Inlet State Park’s “south use area” after 8 pm. Let the toll collector know you are there for a turtle walk to avoid paying the entry fee.
The Sebastian Fishing Museum is connected to the entrance station, located 7 miles north of County Road 510 at 14251 North AlA, Vero Beach, FL, 32963. For any questions, call them at (772) 388-2750.
The turtle walk program begins with a presentation about sea turtles while the beach is scouted for a nesting turtle. If a nesting turtle is located, the group heads directly to the spot after the presentation.
If turtles are scarce, the group begins its beach trek (9 pm) and walks as much as 1.5 miles in a single direction. That means a total of 3 miles, the longest of any officially sanctioned sea turtle walk. There are no rest room facilities and bringing water is recommended. Once you start the trek, you must complete it. There is no transportation for those who get tired.
No flash photography is allowed and flashlights cannot be used on the beach. However, a small light can be helpful for crossing the dune traveling to and from the beach.
Insect repellent is a must. Long pants and long sleeves help to stave off mosquito bites. Bring water.
Sebastian
Inlet is
one of Florida's most popular state parks. It offers
fishing and camping. You might want to plan on spending the night,
More information: Sebastian Inlet State Park, 9700 S. State Road A1A, Melbourne Beach, Fl 32951; 321/984-4852.
The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Entrance fee $8 per carload. Campsites include water and electricity.
The Sebastian Fishing and McLarty Treasure Museums are open 7 days a week from 10-4.
Sebastian Inlet State Park events website offers turtle walk information only in spring and summer.
To Join a Sea Turtle Walk (Watch) Home
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