Located just 20 minutes from Tangalle, Rekawa is a serene beach setting for couples who want to combine a beach outing with exploring Ussangoda, taking a birdwatching lagoon boat safari at Kalametiya Lagoon, and enjoying an immersive sea turtle conservation experience at the Rekawa Turtle Hatchery.
The beaches around Rekawa are the nesting grounds for five of the world’s seven sea turtle species. The experience allows visitors to join the project volunteers during the night tour and explore the beach area for the nesting turtles.
Enjoy a unique wildlife experience for visitors and be a part of a natural conservation effort; please remember that since this is wildlife, you must manage expectations while waiting for a turtle to come ashore and nest. The priority is always the turtle’s well-being, and as such, no flash photography is allowed. The volunteers use special red torches that do not disturb the turtles. Always remember to follow the guidelines of the local guides and volunteers, keeping the appropriate distance when observing the turtles.
The best time to witness nesting turtles is the high season, which is between April and July. Approximately 5-15 turtles come to hatch between sunset and sunrise. During October – January, the low season for egg laying, only 1-2 turtles usually come to nest on the beach.
Important Notes:
The night turtle nesting search starts from 8:00 pm onwards.
Remember to enjoy and engage responsibly, following the advice and guidelines of the local guides.
Flash Photography and white/yellow torches are prohibited while on the night crawl.
Be patient; there is no specific time or guarantee for the turtles’ arrival on the beach.
Only engage with locals if part of Turtle Watch for purchasing tickets or go on private tours.
Turtle Watch Rekawa
Rekawa Road (Near Buckingham Place Hotel)
Open: 5 PM-11 PM Daily with the Night Safari after 8:00 pm onwards
Tickets: LKR 1,500 per adult and LKR 500 per child (this is returned if no turtle safari takes place; prices are current as of September 2024)