Barbados is one of the best destinations in the Caribbean to see sea turtles up close, offering incredible opportunities to swim alongside these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. The island is home to three main species of turtles: Hawksbill, Green, and Leatherback turtles. Whether you’re snorkelling, diving, or simply relaxing on the beach, Barbados provides some of the best spots for turtle encounters.

Top Places to See Turtles in Barbados

1. Carlisle Bay
   Located in Bridgetown, Carlisle Bay is a prime spot for snorkelling and swimming with turtles, and Harbour Lights Barbados offers one of the best experiences for visitors. With its calm, crystal-clear waters, this beachside haven is home to Hawksbill and Green turtles that glide effortlessly alongside snorkellers. Harbour Lights’ popular daytime beach packages provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy guided snorkelling excursions, where you can encounter these majestic creatures up close while also exploring nearby shipwrecks teeming with vibrant marine life. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach or diving into adventure, Harbour Lights ensures an unforgettable turtle experience in Carlisle Bay.

2. Paynes Bay
   Situated on the west coast of Barbados, Paynes Bay is another prime spot for turtle watching. The calm waters and coral reefs make it ideal for snorkelling, and turtles are frequently seen gliding gracefully through the water. Many catamaran tours stop here, giving visitors a chance to swim with these majestic creatures.

3. Holetown Beach
   Holetown Beach, located in St. James, is a popular spot for spotting turtles close to shore. Turtles often feed on seagrass in the shallow waters, providing a fantastic opportunity for snorkellers to observe them in their natural environment.

4. Folkestone Marine Park
   Folkestone Marine Park, just north of Holetown, offers a protected marine area perfect for turtle sightings. The park’s underwater trails and reefs attract a variety of sea life, including Green and Hawksbill turtles. Bring your snorkelling gear and enjoy a day exploring the park’s vibrant marine ecosystem.

5. Bottom Bay
   For a more secluded experience, Bottom Bay on the island's southeast coast offers a quieter turtle-spotting opportunity. Though less commercialised, the area still provides chances to see turtles in the wild, especially during nesting season.

Turtle Nesting Season in Barbados

Barbados is a critical nesting ground for Hawksbill and Leatherback turtles. Nesting season typically occurs between May and October, when female turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. During this time, you might witness hatchlings making their way to the sea—a truly unforgettable experience.

Responsible Turtle Watching

While seeing turtles is a magical experience, it’s essential to respect their natural habitat:

• Do not touch or chase the turtles.

• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.

• Observe nesting turtles quietly from a distance.

The Best Turtle Experience in Barbados

For the ultimate turtle encounter, book a snorkelling or catamaran tour that specialises in wildlife experiences. Many tours include stops at Carlisle Bay or Paynes Bay, where you can swim alongside these beautiful creatures in their natural environment.

Barbados offers an incredible opportunity to observe sea turtles up close, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Whether you’re swimming in Carlisle Bay or snorkelling off Paynes Bay, witnessing turtles in Barbados is a memory you’ll treasure forever.