Information
Landmark: Old Hegg Turtle SanctuaryCity: Bequia
Country: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Continent: North America
Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, Bequia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, North America
Overview
Perched on the island of Bequia in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary is a rare haven for sea turtles, blending hands-on conservation with education and eco-tourism.The sanctuary was created to protect the endangered sea turtles that live along this stretch of coast, and it pours its energy into conservation, research, and teaching visitors why these creatures matter.Orton “Brother” King started this sanctuary, and over the years it’s grown into a favorite stop for eco-tourists-a place where you might watch a hatchling’s tiny flippers push through warm sand while learning about the threats sea turtles face in the wild.Main Features & Attractions - Sea Turtle Conservation: The sanctuary works to protect several species, from the sleek green turtle to the patterned hawksbill and the sturdy loggerhead.The sanctuary plays a vital role in protecting turtles, caring for the injured until they heal and guarding the sandy beaches where they nest.One of its most thrilling moments is the turtle release program-watching a healthy turtle slip into the waves and vanish beneath the surf.Visitors can watch these remarkable creatures slip back into the waves, tiny flippers pushing through wet sand.On guided tours, guests learn about the sea turtles’ life cycle, their coastal habitats, and dangers like poaching, floating plastic, and warming seas.The sanctuary also safeguards nests, making sure hatchlings reach the water unharmed.If you’re lucky, you might spot tiny turtle hatchlings pushing through warm sand and making their slow, determined crawl to the sea.At the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, the team works closely with locals, teaching why sea turtle conservation matters and inspiring pride in protecting marine life.During your visit, join a guided tour to see the rehabilitation work up close and hear firsthand how their efforts are helping these endangered creatures survive.At the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, you might watch a tiny hatchling scramble toward the surf or meet a rescued turtle recovering in its tank.Guests can chat with the staff, ask questions, and get hands-on with the conservation work.Along the way, you’ll learn how delicate the marine ecosystem is and why protecting sea turtles-and other wildlife-matters for the future.Before you leave, browse the eco-friendly shop for handcrafted turtle-themed keepsakes.Sales from the shop help fund the sanctuary’s ongoing conservation work.Visitors can snap close-up shots of turtles or catch the team in action protecting them.You’ll find the sanctuary in southern Bequia, just a quick drive or boat ride from Port Elizabeth.It’s usually open every day, though checking ahead for hours or special events-like a hatchling release-is a good idea.A small entry fee applies, and every bit goes straight back into caring for the turtles.Fees can change based on the tour or activity you pick.In the end, the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary is a spot you shouldn’t miss if you care about wildlife or want to watch sea turtles glide through clear, sunlit water.You might learn about the struggles these endangered species face or watch a turtle slip into the surf, but either way, the sanctuary gives you an experience that’s both unique and unforgettable.When you visit the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, you’ll learn fascinating facts, see turtles up close as their shells catch the sunlight, and help protect marine life in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, ensuring these majestic creatures have a future.
