Khao Lak Turtle Sanctuary
“Taking care of them is loving them”
Think about this:
You’re face-to-face with creatures that have survived on Earth longer than we can even imagine. This isn’t a fairy tale—it’s a place where nature takes the lead, and you walk away with a solid dose of knowledge (and maybe a few smiles).
Welcome to the Sea Turtle Conservation Center in Khao Lak.
Visit the Sea Turtle Sanctuary
Select your preferred way to experience nature
Rafting, Turtle Center & Elephant Bathing
A full nature experience: bamboo rafting through the jungle, swimming with elephants, and visiting the conservation center.
- Bamboo Rafting & Waterfall
- Elephant Bathing
- Thai Lunch included
Turtle Center & Elephant Bathing
Perfect for a half-day trip. Connect with elephants in a stream and visit the adorable hatchlings at the sanctuary.
- Elephant Interaction
- Turtle Sanctuary Tour
- Pickup Included
Full-Day: Turtles, Elephants & Temple
The most complete experience. Combine wildlife with culture by visiting a serene Buddhist temple.
- Elephants, Rafting & Turtles
- Buddhist Temple Visit
- Delicious Thai Lunch
What’s it like to visit?
1. A journey through stories
Your visit kicks off in an exhibition room designed to hook you from the very first moment. Forget boring school lectures—this is a space where you’ll learn where sea turtles come from, the challenges they face, and why they’re so crucial to our oceans.
Did you know some can live over 100 years?
2. Meet the stars of the show
Once you’ve soaked up some knowledge, it’s time to head to the aquarium. Here, the spotlight is all on the turtles: from tiny little ones that look like they stepped out of a movie to majestic adults who seem to say, “Yes, I know I’m amazing.” It’s like a beauty pageant, but way deeper.
3. The Nursery: Baby turtles in action
Now for the cutest part. Ever seen baby turtles eating and exploring? Here, they’re raised until they’re about 6 to 8 months old, just enough to take on the ocean with confidence. It’s basically a VIP daycare for turtles, and trust me, this is where your biggest “aww” moment will happen.
4. Relax by the sea
After connecting with these small and big swimmers, it’s time to unwind. The nearby beach is perfect for a deep breath of fresh air. Don’t forget to stop by the Sea Turtle Café for an iced coffee or smoothie. You’ve earned it!
Turtle Species in Thailand
Discover the 5 amazing species you might encounter
Hawksbill Turtle
Eretmochelys imbricata
💡 Its pointed beak resembles a hawk’s, inspiring its name.
- Size: Up to 100 cm and 120 kg
- Diet: Sponges and mollusks on coral reefs
- Habitat: Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea
Olive Ridley Turtle
Lepidochelys olivacea
💡 The smallest sea turtle, but it makes up for its size with tenacity.
- Size: 75–80 cm and ~80 kg
- Diet: Crabs, mollusks, and small fish
- Unique: Participates in mass nesting ‘arribada’
Loggerhead Turtle
Caretta caretta
💡 Its powerful jaw can crush mollusk shells with ease.
- Diet: Mollusks and crabs
- Status: No longer nests in Thailand, but spotted in waters
Green Sea Turtle
Chelonia mydas
💡 Known as ‘the ocean’s gardener’ for trimming seagrass beds.
- Size: Up to 150 cm and 200 kg
- Diet: Omnivorous (youth) / Herbivorous (adult)
- Habitat: Similan/Surin Islands, Gulf of Thailand
Leatherback Turtle
Dermochelys coriacea
💡 The largest sea turtle in the world. Shell covered by thick skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time should I spend at the turtle conservation center?
Usually, a couple of hours is enough, but it really depends on how curious you are. You can also take a stroll along the beach and enjoy a drink.
Are there baby turtles?
Yes, depending on the season, you might see newly hatched turtles in the sanctuary’s nursery areas.
Can children visit?
Absolutely! The sanctuary is perfect for the whole family. It’s an educational and fun experience that kids will love.
Can you swim with sea turtles in Khao Lak?
If you’d like to swim with turtles in their natural habitat, Khao Lak is a great base. The best spots for snorkeling are day trips to the Similan or Surin Islands.
When is nesting season?
Nesting season in the Andaman Sea runs from October to March, peaking between November and January.
Protection Laws
Sea turtles in Thailand are protected by several laws aimed at conserving wildlife and their habitats: