If you visit Marco Island between late spring and early fall, you may share the beach with some of its most iconic residents. Turtles in Marco Island are part of what makes the island feel wild, protected, and special. You are more likely to see tracks than turtles themselves, but that quiet mystery is part of the experience.

This guide covers the three sea turtles you might encounter near Marco Island, how common they are, and how to enjoy turtle season responsibly while exploring the island.

Loggerhead Turtles: Marco Island’s Most Common Nester

Loggerhead sea turtles are the most frequent turtle species and the primary nesting species on local beaches. They are known for their large heads, strong jaws, and long history of returning to the same shoreline year after year.

Nesting season typically runs from late spring through summer, and hatchlings emerge later in the season. Most visitors never see the turtle itself, but you may notice nest markers or wide, looping tracks along the shoreline while walking Marco Island beaches.

Green Sea Turtles: Present but Less Common

Green sea turtles also live in the waters around Marco Island, though they nest less frequently than loggerheads. They are herbivores and are often associated with seagrass areas rather than open beaches.

You are more likely to encounter green sea turtles while boating, kayaking, or snorkeling near calmer coastal waters. If you are planning time on the water, our things to do on Marco Island guide highlights low-impact ways to explore wildlife habitats.

While nesting does occur in Southwest Florida, green turtle nests are still considered relatively uncommon locally. Their presence is a sign of improving coastal conditions and ongoing conservation efforts.

Leatherback Turtles: Rare but Remarkable

Leatherback sea turtles are the largest turtles on Earth and the rarest you could encounter near Marco Island. They spend most of their lives in deep, open water and only come ashore to nest.

Although sightings are rare, leatherbacks have been documented in Collier County. Their tracks are much wider than other turtles and unmistakable if you ever see them.

Why Turtle Season Makes Marco Island Special

Turtle season adds a quiet rhythm to life on Marco Island. It is not about spectacle. It is about awareness, timing, and respect for the natural world that surrounds the island.

Visitors who plan around turtle season (March to October) often discover a deeper side of Marco Island.