Seven loggerhead sea turtles born in Benidorm last summer return to the sea
More than 70 pupils from three schools, along with a large number of members of the public, gathered today at Poniente Beach to witness the release of the Caretta caretta (loggerhead sea turtles)
Since hatching in August 2025, the turtles have been cared for at the Oceanogràfic facilities, where they have remained until today.
On the night of 7 August 2025, more than 30 loggerhead sea turtle eggs hatched on Benidorm’s Levante Beach. Just over a year later, this Thursday, seven hatchlings from that nest returned to the sea after completing their rearing programme at Valencia's Oceanogràfic.
More than 70 Year 3 primary school pupils from three schools in Benidorm, along with many members of the public, gathered at Poniente Beach to watch the release of the seven turtles. The event was organised by Benidorm City Council’s Department of the Environment and the Oceanogràfic, with support from Serra Gelada Natural Park, the Mundomar Foundation, the Local Police and RA Benidorm, the company responsible for managing the city’s beaches.
Mayor Toni Pérez and Councillors for the Environment and Education, Mónica Gómez and Maite Moreno, took part in releasing the Caretta caretta specimens. After their time at the Oceanogràfic, the turtles had reached a size comparable to that of approximately four-year-old individuals. As environmental educators explained during the release, their increased size and strength give them a better chance of survival in their natural habitat.
Toni Pérez highlighted that Benidorm has now hosted loggerhead sea turtle nesting and hatching for “two consecutive years”. He added that what took place at Poniente Beach was an “extraordinary moment”, allowing “around 75 children from three schools not only to enthusiastically enjoy the experience, but also to take part in a practical outdoor masterclass on protecting the environment, preserving biodiversity, looking after our beaches and safeguarding our sea”.
In this regard, the Mayor noted that “turtles are said to lay their eggs on the beach where they were born, and science tells us that the presence of a turtle nest indicates good-quality water and sand”.
“That is the case in Benidorm, as demonstrated by the certifications our beaches achieve year after year, reflecting our environmental sustainability. This commitment has also been recognised by the European Commission, which has designated our city as European Green Leaf 2028,” he added.
The Mayor also recalled that, on the night of 7 August, another 30 turtle hatchlings emerged from their eggs and were released immediately at nearby Cala del Tío Ximo.
The survival of all these hatchlings was made possible, he stressed, because “there were environmentally aware people who, when the turtles began hatching and making their way across the sand, immediately contacted the municipal and emergency services so that we could respond and activate the comprehensive protocols involving various public authorities and institutions”.
Therefore he emphasised the importance of “initiatives such as today’s, which help educate the public on how to respond in situations like this”.
What to do if you find a sea turtle nest
According to the Oceanogràfic, if you discover a sea turtle nest, you should immediately report it to the authorities by calling the emergency services number, 112.
Until the police and specialists arrive, keep your distance and observe the nest from afar to avoid disturbing the area or the animals. Avoid lights and loud noises, as these can disorient both nesting females and hatchlings. Do not touch the sand or attempt to uncover the eggs, as this could damage them.
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