Turtle Nesting Season
Turtle Nesting Season The month of May heralds the…
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The Palm Beaches are known for world-famous hotels, boutiques and golf, but we are also home to stunning natural areas, protected wetlands and dive sites teeming with life. As the Sea Turtle Capital of Florida, our shores welcome thousands of nesting sea turtles each year—just one of the many reasons our coastal ecosystem is so extraordinary. From natural attractions such as Manatee Lagoon and the Loggerhead Marinelife Center to protected wildlife areas, there’s no better place than The Palm Beaches to experience the miracle of nature. So please birdwatch, hike, bike, and snorkel responsibly—it’s the best way to preserve our natural resources for future generations to enjoy.
Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center offers visitors an extraordinary opportunity to observe gentle manatees in their natural habitat while exploring interactive exhibits and educational programs. This premier waterfront destination provides an inspiring setting for field trips, special events and unforgettable family experiences where wildlife conservation comes alive, making it the perfect backdrop for both education and celebration.
On February 6, 2027, ManateeFest 2027 will be a joyous celebration marking Manatee Lagoon’s 11th anniversary! This FREE, family-friendly event offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of manatees, the Lake Worth Lagoon, and environmental conservation. Attendees can enjoy face painting, live music, photo opportunities with Mia the Manatee, a KidsFunZone and much more. Learn more at visitmanateelagoon.com/manateefest/.

By filling out this form, you pledge to do your part to protect The Palm Beaches by respecting wildlife, caring for our beaches and natural areas, reducing your impact, exploring responsibly, and encouraging others to do the same.
Leave No Trace.
When exploring our natural areas—pack it in, pack it out. Bring what you need for your trip with you, and make sure you leave nothing behind. Place all trash in designated receptacles or take it with you when you leave.
Be Prepared.
Our natural areas are subject to the elements and the wildlife that call them home. Please do your research ahead of time—wear proper attire and bring the right gear for your adventure.
Sea Turtle Safety.
Three species of threatened and endangered sea turtles nest annually in The Palm Beaches, and we need your help to keep them safe, both on shore and in the water. Sea turtles are federally protected by the Endangered Species Act, and so are their nests. You can help our original locals by keeping our beaches clean, flat, and dark during nesting season from March 1 to October 31. Please fill in any holes you dig, knock down sandcastles, and remove beach chairs & toys that could trap nesting turtles or hatchlings. During nesting season, leave lights off and do not disturb nesting turtles, nests, or hatchlings. When boating, wear polarized sunglasses and keep a lookout for sea turtles within one mile of shore, where they may be found closer to the surface during nesting season. If you spot a sea turtle in distress, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-888-404-FWCC.
Fishing Friends.
Always check for sensitive habitats before anchoring, either visually, from a nautical chart, or using the Southeast Florida Reefs Map. Vessels 35 feet or smaller can safely moor to one of our system of buoys to protect offshore reefs. Please retrieve all fishing line and nets from the water to ensure fish and birds don’t get caught up
Manatee Safety.
Manatees are protected by the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act and are federally protected by both the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act. Observe all no-wake zones and all boating signs to protect these gentle giants.
NOTE: You will not be cited if you accidentally collide with a manatee while obeying speed restrictions. Please take immediate action and call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
Adventure Awaits.
Join us as we explore the wild side of Palm Beach County at FREE naturalist-led events that provide one-of-a-kind experiences like guided hikes, paddles, bike rides, wildlife tracking, and more. Each event aims to inspire and help connect people with nature.
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