Our Commitment
Each year from May through November, sea turtles return to the shores of Grand Cayman to nest along Seven Mile Beach. At Harbour Heights, we are proud to play a role in protecting these incredible animals and preserving the natural beauty they return to year after year.
Our beachfront location offers guests and residents the rare opportunity to witness one of nature’s most remarkable journeys, from nesting mothers arriving under the cover of night to hatchlings making their way toward the Caribbean Sea.
Turtle-Friendly Amber Lighting
At Harbour Heights, we’re committed to turtle conservation. Starting in April, all our outdoor lighting is switched to turtle-friendly amber lighting, helping keep our stretch of Seven Mile Beach safe for nesting and hatching turtles.
For instance, artificial beachfront lighting can disorient nesting turtles and hatchlings, drawing them away from the ocean and reducing their chances of survival. Through collaboration with the Cayman Islands Department of Environment (DoE), we’ve taken important steps toward creating a safer beachfront environment during nesting season.
Identifying Turtle Tracks & Nests
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Green
-
Loggerhead
Track Size
Green Sea Turtles
— 3 ft. —
Further Identification
- Approximately 3 feet wide.
- Flipper marks are aligned symmetrically.
- Movement resembles a breaststroke swimming motion.
- Edges of the centre track are relatively straight.
- Nests typically feature a large hole and mound of sand.
- Green turtles have smaller heads compared to loggerheads.
Track Size
Loggerhead Sea Turtles
— 2 ft. —
Further Identification
- Approximately 2 feet wide.
- Curved flipper marks that are not aligned symmetrically.
- Movement alternates between limbs.
- Center track edges appear more wavy.
- Nests are usually a smaller disturbed area of sand.
- Loggerheads are known for their noticeably larger heads.
History of Nests at Harbour Heights
In past seasons, residents, guests, and staff typically get to witness hatchlings emerging right on our beach every year. With guidance from the Department of Environment, a temporary barrier is carefully placed to help guide these hatchlings safely from the nest to the sea.
Our turtle nesting season at Harbour Heights usually brings in exclusively green sea turtles, but June 2026 brought in the exciting sight of a loggerhead nest, with hatchlings expected to emerge by the end of July… one of the many reasons we love calling Seven Mile Beach home.
Reporting Turtle Sightings
If you come across an adult turtle nesting, discover a nest, are lucky enough to witness hatchlings making their way to the sea, or notice anyone disturbing them in any way, please contact the Department of Environment.
Your help gives these creatures the best chance to survive.
Turtle Hotline: 938-NEST (938-6378)
Email: DoE@gov.ky
