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Bombinhas, with its 39 paradisiacal beaches, is one of the best destinations in Brazil to observe sea turtles in their natural habitat. The highlight goes to Praia da Sepultura, where the crystal clear waters provide incredible encounters with these fascinating animals.
In this guide, you will find the best places, times and tips to see turtles in Bombinhas, as well as information about conservation projects and how to contribute to the conservation of these species.
Where to Find Turtles in Bombinhas
On the coast of Bombinhas, some beaches are especially known for the frequent presence of sea turtles. Discover the most suitable places for this unique experience.
1. Sepultura Beach – The Best Spot
Praia da Sepultura is the most famous place to see green turtles in Bombinhas. With calm waters and excellent visibility, it is one of the best spots for snorkeling and scuba diving. For those looking for the best diving experience in Bombinhas, Meet Bombinhas offers equipment rental, guided tours and the exclusive Flututour at Sepultura Beach.
What is Flututour?
The Flutuatour is a guided flotation experience ideal for those who have never dived before. With the use of the FULL FACE mask, which allows you to breathe through your nose and mouth, participants explore marine life in a safe and comfortable way.
With the help of floating vests and buoys, you will be led through shallow and crystal clear waters, where you can closely observe colorful fish, corals and, with luck, even sea turtles. Throughout the activity, expert instructors ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience.
- Best time: morning, when water visibility is highest
- Modalities: snorkeling and scuba diving at Ponta da Sepultura
- Marine life: green turtles, corals, and various species of fish
At Meet Bombinhas, you will find a guided tour perfect for beginners. With the support of floating vests and buoys, visitors are led through shallow and crystalline waters, having the opportunity to observe various marine species. In addition, experienced instructors accompany the entire route, ensuring safety and comfort. To make this experience even more special, the tour also offers photo and video packages. Book now and live this adventure!
2. Canto Grande Beach – Spawning Area
In addition to being a paradisiacal place, Canto Grande is a spawning area for the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta).
- Monitoring: Tartabinhas Project and FAMAB accompany the nests
- Spawning period: between November and March, with up to 120 eggs per nest
- Care: keep your distance and avoid artificial lights so as not to affect the puppies
3. Ribeiro Beach – Hidden Refuge
Located between Bombas and Bombinhas, Praia do Ribeiro is a true hidden gem. Little explored, it is ideal for those looking for a quieter environment.
- Access: through the Passarela do Ribeiro, 800 meters long
- Marine life: green turtles feed on rocky shores
Best time to see sea turtles in Bombinhas
High Season (December to March)
Summer is the ideal time to find turtles, as the sea gets warmer and they appear more frequently.
- Daily monitoring by volunteers
- Green turtles are the most common
- Possibility of witnessing loggerhead turtle spawning
Ideal Times for Sighting
The morning is the most recommended, as the waters are calmer and visibility is better. During the day, turtles can be seen:
- Feeding near the shores
- Resting in shallow water
- Swimming and rising to the surface to breathe
- The underwater monitoring carried out by the Tartabinhas Project records observations both during the day and at night, but tourist observation activities are concentrated during the day for safety and visibility reasons.
How to Observe Turtles Safely
To ensure a safe and responsible experience when observing sea turtles in Bombinhas, some fundamental precautions need to be followed.
Recommended Distance
- Keep a minimum distance of 10 meters when spotting a sea turtle
- Never block the turtle’s return path to the sea
- If you find puppies, keep at least 5 feet apart
Equipment Required
- Binoculars for distance observation
- Camera without flash
- Sunscreen and hat
- Light and comfortable clothes
Observation Rules
- Avoid any type of artificial lighting, especially at night
- Do not touch the animals or eggs to avoid contamination
- Keep quiet, as turtles are sensitive to noise
- Do not use flash in photos
- Avoid entering the water when there are hatchlings near the shore
If you find a turtle at risk or during the spawning process, immediately contact the Tartabinhas Project, which carries out constant monitoring and can guide visitors.
Learn more about the Tartabinhas Project
Local Conservation Projects
The Tartabinhas Institute was born from the passion for the preservation of sea turtles that inhabit the coast of Bombinhas. Through scientific research and environmental education, this pioneering project brings the community closer to these magnificent marine animals.
Tartabinhas Project
The Institute develops a unique work of underwater monitoring of sea turtles through photo-identification. This innovative methodology does not cause stress to the animals and allows them to investigate their residence patterns and movement between beaches.
The project also promotes sustainable initiatives such as:
- Returnable Bags Project
- Reciclamar Project
- Underwater monitoring with special wetsuits
How to Volunteer
The Tartabinhas Project offers volunteer programs lasting 6, 10 or 14 days.
Requirements:
- Minimum age of 18 years
- Ability to float on water
- Interest in marine conservation
The program offers:
- Qualified instructors
- Transportation within Bombinhas
- Certificate with theoretical and practical hours.
- Volunteers receive specific training and participate in weekly monitoring of the beaches of Quatro Ilhas, Mariscal and Canto Grande. During the summer, this monitoring takes place daily.
- Another way to help is through the Citizen Scientist Program, sending photos of turtles sighted during dives or on the beach. After analysis in the database, participants can even symbolically name a new turtle identified.
- The project also develops research on microplastics on beaches, involving students in practical collection and analysis activities.
Conclusion
Bombinhas is a true natural sanctuary for sea turtles. Its crystal clear waters rich in biodiversity provide a unique experience for visitors.
The preservation of these species depends on everyone’s commitment. Following safety guidelines and respecting the recommended distances are essential attitudes to ensure the survival of turtles.
The work of the Tartabinhas Project demonstrates how each person can make a difference. Whether as a volunteer, sharing photographic records or simply respecting the rules of observation, everyone can contribute to the conservation of these animals.
FAQs
What is the best beach to see turtles in Bombinhas? Where to find them?
A: Praia da Sepultura is considered the main turtle watching spot in Bombinhas. Its crystal clear waters offer ideal conditions for spotting these marine animals, whether through snorkeling or scuba diving.
What is the best month to see turtles in Bombinhas? Is it possible to see them in winter?
A: The peak season for turtle watching in Bombinhas is from December to March. During this period, monitoring activities are daily, increasing the chances of sightings.
How can I contribute to the preservation of sea turtles?
A: You can contribute by respecting the observation rules, participating as a volunteer in the Tartabinhas Project or sending photos of the turtles sighted through the Citizen Scientist Program.
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References
- Sea Turtles – Tartabinhas Institute
- Hidden Paradise in Bombinhas: Crystal Clear Waters and Preserved Nature – VipSocial
- Photos: Ribeiro Beach, Bombinhas Enchants with Natural Landscapes – ND More
- Ribeiro Beach: Discover the Natural Paradise in Bombinhas – Rocco Imob
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