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 See a Nesting Turtle
If you encounter a sea turtle laying her eggs, observe quietly from at least 30 feet (10 metres) away. Avoid using any lights, including flashlights or camera flashes, as light can disturb the nesting process.
If You See Hatchlings
Watching hatchlings make their way to the sea is a special experience. Please keep your distance, avoid all artificial light and flash photography, and allow them to reach the ocean without assistance.
If You Discover a Turtle Nest
If you notice a turtle nest or fresh turtle tracks, please leave the area exactly as you found it. Do not dig into the nest, cover the tracks, or disturb the surrounding sand. Most nests are monitored through the Department of Environment’s conservation programme, so they generally do not need to be reported.
When to Contact the Department of Environment
If a turtle, hatchling, or nest is at immediate risk or in danger, please call the DoE Turtle Hotline: 938-NEST (938-6378).
For non-urgent concerns or observations, send a WhatsApp message to the Turtle Hotline (938-6378) or email doe.turtles@gov.ky.
To report suspected poaching or other illegal activity involving sea turtles, contact the DoE Chief Conservation Officer at 916-4271 or call 911.
Thank you for helping protect Cayman Islands’ sea turtles. By respecting wildlife and following these guidelines, you play an important role in their conservation.
