Tulum Turtle Nesting Spree: A Nighttime Battle Against Beach Furniture

Sea turtle nesting in Tulum has reached a remarkable 6,000 nests this season, but the journey from egg to hatchling faces a significant obstacle: beach furniture left out overnight. As a long-time expat running a small dive shop in Tulum, I’ve witnessed firsthand the nightly exodus of sunbeds and umbrellas from the sand, a requirement mandated by the municipal rules. Despite this, the majority of beachfront businesses fail to comply, posing a serious threat to hatchling survival.

The turtle patrol at Punta Piedra, which covers a stretch from Punta Piedra to Playa Maya Tulum, has been diligently monitoring these nests. Green turtles lead the count, with loggerhead turtles following closely. However, the persistence of beach furniture means that hatchlings still have to navigate a path cleared by human intervention. The volunteers estimate that only 10 percent of beachfront businesses comply with the 7 p.m. removal deadline, leaving 90 percent of hotels in non-compliance.

This issue is not just about the ethics of sea turtle conservation; it’s a practical challenge for residents and visitors. If you own or manage a beachfront business, make sure to follow the regulations to avoid fines and contribute to the health of our local ecosystem. For everyone, consider supporting the volunteer efforts or even joining them to help clear the beach for the hatchlings.