Along the quiet stretches of beach near Bentota, a number of turtle conservation hatcheries work diligently to protect and nurture some of the world’s most endangered marine creatures. These hatcheries serve as both rescue centers and sanctuaries, providing a safe environment for injured turtles, rehabilitating them, and giving hatchlings a better chance at life by protecting their eggs until they’re ready to be released into the sea.

Species including the Green Turtle, Hawksbill, Loggerhead, and even the rare Leatherback Turtle nest along this coast. A visit to the hatchery allows visitors to observe baby turtles up close, understand the threats these animals face from pollution and poaching, and sometimes even participate in ethical, supervised releases of hatchlings into the ocean — a heartwarming and unforgettable experience.

These hatcheries not only contribute to global conservation efforts but also raise awareness among visitors, especially families and children, about the importance of protecting Sri Lanka’s fragile marine ecosystems.