World Turtle Day: 8 best places to see turtles around the world

Tortuguero National Park is the largest Atlantic Green turtle nesting site in the Western Hemisphere. Between June to September, swathes of Atlantic Green and Leatherback turtles nest on the beaches in this national park. You'll also find Turtle Beach Lodge here, which has its own private beach and runs evening tours where you can watch the turtles navigating the sands.
 

While Tortuguero National Park is the best place to see turtles in Costa Rica, you may also spot Hawksbill and Olive Ridley turtles at the likes of the Osa Peninsula and Cahuita National Park.

Situated on the east coast of Central America, Belize is a haven for marine wildlife. Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, its stand-out destination is the Belize Barrier Reef. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters to admire the vibrant coral reef while Hawksbill, Green Sea and Loggerhead turtles glide past.
 

About a half an hour boat ride from Belize City lies St George's Caye. This area includes three protected areas, from mangrove to archaeology reserves, which provide important habitats for these endangered sea turtles

Between November to January, baby turtles hatch on the sands of El Salvador, such as on El Zonte, before they embark on their oceanic journey. You may also see Hawksbill turtles at Jiquilisco Bay, a biosphere reserve that plays an important role in turtle conservation. 
 

Take a boat trip with a local biologist through the mangrove canals of Jiquilisco Bay and monitor Hawksbill turtles. Playing a role in monitoring these tiny creatures undoubtedly leaves you with a heart-warming feeling of connection to the natural world.

This teardrop-shaped island sees numerous turtles traverse its surrounding waters and nest on its beaches. Kosgoda, in southern Sri Lanka, has a turtle hatchery where you can learn about these endangered sea turtles and their breeding process. Those lucky enough to see female turtles coming onto the beach to lay eggs later in the evening is bound to be the highlight of any visit to Sri Lanka. 
 

Green, Loggerhead, Olive Ridley, Leatherback and Hawksbill turtles can be spotted on the beaches of Rekawa, a fishing village on the south coast of Tangalle. With its spacious, sandy beach and little development, it's an ideal setting for these turtles to rest up.