Watch turtles hatching in Malaysia

Catch the sight of turtles hatching, a once in a lifetime experience in Cherating

Turtles are a magnificent creature, with over 356 known species alive today though some are highly endangered. Known for their long lifespan, you can find four of the seven types of marine turtles in Malaysia: green, hawksbill, olive ridley and leatherback. These turtles seek sanctuary in the beaches of Sabah, Sarawak, Terengganu, Pahang and Perak as they are important nesting habitat for female turtles to lay eggs.

One of the best places to witness the sight of these rare creatures is in Cherating, Pahang. The white sandy beaches here is the perfect spot for sea turtles to come ashore to lay eggs. If you are lucky, you may even catch the sight of these eggs hatching and experience the magical experience of seeing the baby turtles saddle their way to the open sea!

There are several tours where you can catch the sight of turtles, and the famous Cherating Turtle Sanctuary is also a must visit for all visitors to Cherating. Even if you were just passing by Kuantan, Pahang, pay Cherating a visit as you can witness the sight of turtles hatching during the peak nesting season. This is the best activity to do in Cherating especially if you have children with you, as it is both exciting and educational as they learn about nature, the importance of conservation and take part in a magical experience!

1 - Cherating turtle sanctuary

Cherating turtle sanctuary

Established in 1972, this small charity-run sanctuary is set up as a turtle conservation effort, so visitors should be mindful to practice care around the turtles. Come during the peak nesting season between July and October to watch baby turtles hatch from their delicate shells and be released immediately back to the sea to prevent being eaten by predators.

The Cherating Turtle Sanctuary also has an exhibition are where you can learn more about turtles and their research programs for conservation. There is also a pond filled with newly-hatched baby turtles that are ready to be released, a souvenir shop as well as camping facilities for those who would like to experience the turtles hatching for themselves.

Admission to this sanctuary is free of charge, while donation is encouraged for the upkeep of the conservation programs. It is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 5.30pm, located right next to Club Med, Bukit Cherating, Pahang.

2 - Club Med excursions

Turtle watching

Guests at Club Med Cherating Beach can sign up for two types of excursions, one of which is a 3-hour long turtle watching experience. Watch in awe as these mother turtles make their way to the beach in Kemaman at night, dig holes into the sand and lay their eggs. You can also be part of the experience by helping to collect these delicate eggs so they are protected before they are ready to hatch! This excursion is suitable for everyone including children, and is available from May to September.

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Baby turtle release

The other excursion available is a shorter hour-long one, where you can take part in the important work of releasing newly-hatched baby turtles to the sea! There will be a short information session on turtles and the importance of conservation efforts to protect these highly-endangered species. Then you will get to hold and release these baby turtles right from the Club Med Beach. This excursion is suitable for everyone including children, and is available from June to October.

You can make a reservation to any of these excursions while booking your stay with Club Med Cherating Beach and rest assured, everything will be taken care of so you will have a hassle-free time in Cherating!