Animals · Ocean · 2026

Sea turtle in the wild: where, when and on which trip

Updated September 8, 2026 · Plan your trip

Zeeschildpad zwemt onder water
Photo: Wexor Tmg via Unsplash

In short

Sea turtles stay around fixed seagrass beds and nesting beaches, so the odds stay high all year. In Malaysia April to September has the calmest, clearest water; in India January to April. Respect the 3-meter distance and never touch an animal.

Biome
Ocean
IUCN status
EN · Worldwide uncertain; the IUCN calls the trend declining
Sighting chance
high
Trip type
Snorkelling, diving or beach observation
Budget
900 to 2,000 euros per person for 7 to 10 days
Scientific name
Chelonia mydas

About the Sea turtle

The green sea turtle grazes seagrass meadows and is easy to find on many reefs. For Malaysia the Turtle Islands off Sabah and the reefs of Sipadan are the best-known spots; in India Lakshadweep and the Andamans are the best destinations. Snorkellers often see the animals already in shallow water.

Endangered. Plastic pollution, egg poaching and loss of nesting beaches are the biggest pressures.

Best countries for the Sea turtle

Malaysia (Borneo)

Parks: Turtle Islands Park (Sabah), Sipadan Island · best months April, May, June, July, August, September (April to September)

India

Parks: Lakshadweep, Andaman Islands · best months January, February, March, April, November, December (January to December)

Photo tip

Shoot into the light from above for a silhouette, or at eye level for the scales on the head. A blue-water filter helps at greater depth.

With children

Yes, excellently suited. Snorkelling on shallow seagrass beds is calm and the animals often swim a few meters away.

Combine

Combines with whale shark and reef diving in the same region. A beach observation at the Turtle Islands fits a family holiday.

Sources

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How to book this trip

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Frequently asked questions

Where can I see sea turtles in Asia?

The Turtle Islands off Sabah in Malaysia and the reefs around Sipadan give the highest odds, all year. Snorkelling at Sipadan is bookable as a day trip from Semporna.

What must I not do around sea turtles?

Do not touch, do not chase, do not ride them and use no flash. Keep at least 3 meters and let the animal decide where it swims.

When do sea turtles lay eggs?

It differs per population. In Malaysia nesting often peaks between May and September, in India between December and April. Beach observation always happens with a local guide.

Last updated: September 8, 2026. All sighting chances, months and prices are indications based on public sources, not travel advice and no guarantee. Always check your government’s current travel advisory before departure.