CLUB'S BLOG

Every year from July through November, one of Cabo’s most extraordinary natural wonders unfolds along its shores: turtle hatching season. Tiny hatchlings make their first journey toward the sea—a breathtaking sight that also carries a sobering reminder: most marine turtles are endangered. Among the species found in Cabo are the olive ridley, leatherback, black, and hawksbill turtles, each facing serious threats to their survival.

These species struggle against multiple dangers. Bycatch is one of the most common, as turtles often become trapped in fishing nets, leading to fatal injuries. Marine pollution—especially plastic waste—also poses a significant risk, since turtles can mistake plastic bags for jellyfish, a key food source. In addition, uncontrolled coastal development, vehicle traffic on beaches, and other human activities have destroyed or disrupted nesting areas, making it more difficult for turtles to lay their eggs. Sadly, poaching remains another threat, as some people illegally hunt turtles for their meat, eggs, and shells.

Despite these challenges, sea turtles play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. They help sustain seagrass beds and coral reefs, which provide habitats for countless marine species. Their nests supply nutrients to coastal vegetation, strengthening dunes and protecting beaches from erosion. Some turtle species also regulate jellyfish populations, contributing to ocean balance. Supporting their conservation is essential not only for ecological reasons but also for their cultural significance.

In Los Cabos, hotels and local organizations work together to protect turtle nests and host hatchling release events, allowing both tourists and locals to participate in conservation efforts. Palmilla is no exception—each year, multiple releases take place on our beach during hatching season. One of the most critical organizations in Los Cabos is ASUPMATOMA, in which biologists conduct night patrols to monitor the nesting process, protect nesting females, relocate their nests to protected incubation sites, and ensure that the most significant number of hatchlings reach the sea.

The South Californian Association for the Protection of the Environment and the Sea Turtle of Los Cabos, A.C. (ASUPMATOMA), is a small group of Los Cabos residents, both local and foreign, concerned about caring for and maintaining the incredible beauty and natural resources of Los Cabos, decided to join forces and form a group that would participate and take action to protect the environment in this area.

Starting Saturday, September 6th, the ASUPMATOMA agenda for turtle release will be opened at El Suspiro Beach in La Desaladora. You can also adopt a turtle nest, receiving a virtual kit with videos, photos, data on your adopted nest, and an adoption certificate with the name of a person, a friend, or a business. If you are interested in a turtle release event or in adopting a nest, please get in touch with our Member Services team.

Stay tuned for our upcoming turtle releases by Palmilla beach and join us in protecting one of Cabo’s most cherished natural treasures.