Sea turtles face many threats, but we can all make small changes to help protect nesting and hatchling turtles on our beaches.
Protect nesting and hatchling turtles
The best thing you can do to help nesting and hatchling sea turtles is keep our beaches dark. Bright lights can prevent females from nesting and disorient both adult turtles and hatchlings.
Keep the beach safe for wildlife
Remove all furniture, toys and canopies from the beach each night. Fill in holes, flatten sandcastles, throw trash away in proper receptacles, and avoid leaving food that may attract predators.
Remove furniture, toys and canopies each night.
Fill in holes and flatten sandcastles before you leave.
Use proper receptacles and leave no litter behind.
Avoid leaving food on the beach where it may attract predators.
If you hook a turtle
If you accidentally hook a turtle while fishing, don't cut the line. Safely bring the turtle to shore and contact Marine Resources for assistance. If the turtle is hooked while you are on the Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier, contact the Pier Manager immediately.
Call Marine Resources: 850-281-5904Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!
Marine debris is a problem for all marine life, not just turtles. Choose sustainable products that reduce the need for single-use items. Reusable bags, straws and water bottles are easy, cost-effective ways to reduce plastic use.
More ways to help
Open a brochure to learn more about protecting the beach and sea turtle habitat.
Escambia County is proud to present two snorkeling reefs - Pensacola Beach Gulf Snorkel Reef and Pensacola Bay Snorkel Reef.
Snorkeling is a wonderful activity that can be enjoyed by almost anyone who has access to the ocean, a lake, river, pond or quarry. Snorkeling as an activity frequently lives in the shadow of scuba diving - another excellent pastime, but one that requires significantly more instruction, time and money. Most people who have snorkeled have done so only on group charters while on vacation, but snorkeling is an activity that can be enjoyed almost anytime, anywhere.
Important Snorkeling Reef Information
1. Florida Law requires the use of the "Divers-Down Flag"
When divers are out of the water, a dive flag may not be displayed
2. Snorkeling Reef is not patrolled by lifeguards; use at own risk. Be aware of boat traffic, dangerous marine life, strong wave surge and currents, etc.
3. Always dive with a buddy; never dive alone!
4. Use a personal flotation device, snorkeling vest or other buoyancy aid.
5. Snorkelers and divers should adhere to beach warning flags.
The mission of Escambia County government is to provide efficient, responsive services that enhance our quality of life, meet common needs and promote a safe and healthy community.
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