Olive Ridley Sea Turtles in Morjim

Morjim Beach is one of the few places in Goa where endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Goan Cafe N Resort is located beside this protected nesting area, and many of our guests have been lucky enough to see baby turtles make their first journey to the sea.

About Olive Ridley turtles

Olive Ridleys are the smallest and most common sea turtles in the world, yet they are classed as vulnerable. Females return to the beaches where they hatched to lay around 100 eggs in a nest dug in the sand.

Nesting season at Morjim

Turtles usually nest on Morjim Beach between September/November and February. The eggs incubate in the warm sand for about 45–55 days before the hatchlings emerge, usually at night, and head for the sea.

How you can help

• Keep away from fenced nests and marked zones
• Avoid bright lights and torches on the beach at night
• Do not touch or pick up hatchlings
• Take all litter away with you
• Follow Forest Department staff instructions

Can I see the turtles?

Sightings are never guaranteed. If a hatching is expected, Forest Department staff sometimes allow people to watch quietly from a distance. Ask at our reception during the season.