Cleaning Costa Rica’s Beaches: How Local Action Protects Sea Turtles
When people imagine sea turtle conservation, they often picture hatchlings racing toward the ocean or scientists tagging turtles for research. But one of the most critical and impactful conservation activities happens long before nesting season begins—and it starts with a trash bag and a pair of gloves.
At Tortugas Costa Rica, we organize regular beach clean-up programs on the Central Pacific coast near Parrita, Jacó, and Quepos to combat one of the biggest threats to sea turtles today: plastic pollution.
Why Beach Cleanups Matter for Sea Turtle Conservation
Sea turtles are especially vulnerable to marine debris. Plastic bags resemble jellyfish—the favorite food of many turtle species—and can cause fatal blockages if ingested. Fishing nets and lines can entangle nesting females or trap hatchlings as they emerge from the sand. Even small pieces of microplastic in the sand can affect the health of the nesting environment.
That’s why clean beaches mean safe beaches for sea turtles.
Nesting females need clear, accessible terrain to reach safe nesting spots, and their hatchlings must navigate a debris-free path to the sea. By removing trash and man-made obstructions, we create a healthier, safer space for turtles and other coastal wildlife.
Community Beach Cleanups: Local Effort, Global Impact
Our beach clean-up events bring together local residents, students, businesses, and volunteers from around the world. With the support of local schools and community leaders, we turn cleanups into fun, educational experiences that make a real impact.
Participants not only remove debris—they also learn about ocean pollution, turtle nesting behavior, and the long-term effects of plastic on marine ecosystems. In many cases, families who live just minutes from these beaches have never participated in conservation before. Cleanups give them an accessible, hands-on way to protect the environment and take pride in their coastline.
These events also foster a strong sense of community involvement and stewardship. When people see the direct result of their work—bags of trash removed, turtles returning to nest, or hatchlings making it safely to the water—they begin to understand how small actions can add up to big change.
Volunteers and Conservation Tourists Are Key
International volunteers play an important role in our beach cleanup programs. Whether staying for a week or several months, these volunteers often join cleanups as part of their experience. It’s not just a service activity—it’s a chance to see the impact of conservation work up close.
We also invite eco-tourists and guided tour groups to participate in scheduled cleanups. This kind of voluntourism allows travelers to give back to the places they visit and leave with a deeper appreciation of Costa Rica’s natural beauty and fragility.
More Than Trash: Data Collection and Long-Term Change
During each cleanup, our team records data on the types and quantities of waste collected. This information helps us identify patterns—such as hotspots for fishing gear or specific tides that bring in plastic—and share findings with conservation partners and local authorities.
In the long run, this data contributes to regional waste management improvements, educational campaigns, and targeted efforts to reduce pollution at the source.
A Cleaner Beach is a Safer Nest
At Tortugas Costa Rica, we believe that a clean coastline is the foundation of successful sea turtle conservation. Through regular cleanups, education, and community collaboration, we’re helping to restore balance to our coastal ecosystem—one bag of trash at a time.
Whether you’re a local resident, a student, or a traveler looking to make a difference, there’s a role for you in our mission. Come join a beach cleanup and be part of a cleaner, safer future for sea turtles in Costa Rica.