If you’re looking for a truly meaningful activity while visiting Huatulco, the Baby Turtle Release in Coyote Escobilla Beach offers an unforgettable experience. We haven’t personally done it, but from what travelers share, it’s a rare chance to see one of nature’s most incredible spectacles up close—helping baby turtles reach the ocean. The combination of a private guide, scenic drive, and the opportunity to participate in conservation feels special, especially for those who love nature and authentic encounters.
What really shines about this tour are the knowledgeable guides and the stunning beach setting. Many reviews highlight how guides like Oscar and Rosa bring the experience to life with their insights and patience. The beach itself, where thousands of turtles come to lay eggs each year, is a powerful backdrop. However, one consideration is the timing and travel duration, which can be a bit longer than expected—about an hour and 20 minutes drive rather than 45.
This tour is ideal if you’re interested in wildlife, conservation, and unique travel moments. Families who are comfortable with a 4-hour outing, and travelers seeking a deeper connection to the local environment, will find it particularly rewarding. It’s not a casual, quick stop, but a purposeful outing that leaves a lasting impression.
Key Points
- Unique Experience: Releasing baby turtles into the ocean is both exciting and educational.
- Personalized Service: Private transport and guides make for a tailored, immersive experience.
- Educational Value: Guides are knowledgeable and give context about sea turtles and their importance.
- Timing & Duration: About 4 hours total, including pickup, drive, and the release; expect some travel time.
- Cost & Value: At $85 per person, you’re paying for a meaningful, eco-friendly experience with bottled water included.
- Weather & Cancellation: The tour is weather-dependent, with full refunds if canceled due to poor conditions.
What Is the Baby Turtle Release Tour in Huatulco?

This tour offers a chance to witness a remarkable natural event—the release of baby turtles into the ocean—at Coyote Escobilla Beach, one of the most important turtle nesting sites worldwide. It’s designed to be an intimate experience, with a private guide leading your group, making it easy to ask questions and truly feel involved.
The experience begins with hotel pickup around 4:00 pm, followed by a scenic drive of about 1 hour and 25 minutes towards Puerto Escondido. The drive itself is part of the adventure, giving you a chance to learn about the region from your guide and soak in the landscapes. Once at the beach, your guide will explain the significance of the site, and you’ll witness the hatchlings’ journey to the sea—sometimes even helping them if needed.
The highlight is the actual release, which many reviews describe as moving and unforgettable. You’ll be able to stay for some time to appreciate the sunset views and observe the activity of the turtles arriving and laying eggs in the sand.
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Highlights of the Experience

The tour’s main draw is the opportunity to see turtle hatchlings reach the water, an event that combines awe with a sense of contributing to conservation efforts. The guides are praised for their knowledge and kindness, making sure everyone understands the importance of protecting these creatures. Many reviewers mention how touching and educational the whole experience feels, especially when you get to gently help the tiny turtles into the sea.
Beyond the release, the tour offers some downtime to enjoy the natural beauty of Coyote Escobilla Beach. The scenery is a major plus—long stretches of pristine sand, waves crashing quietly, and the chance to take some memorable photos. The sunset views are often highlighted as a bonus, adding a magical touch to the evening.
What’s Included and What’s Not
For $85 per person, the tour includes bottled water, which is appreciated after a warm day of travel. The private transfer means your group won’t be squeezed into a large bus, allowing a more relaxed and personal experience.
However, there are some additional costs to keep in mind. The entrance fee for the turtle releasing is 200 Mexican pesos (around $12), payable on-site. Alcoholic beverages and dinner are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to extend the experience or enjoy a drink afterward.
The Journey: Expectations and Realities

The pick-up is scheduled for 4:00 pm, with the actual release happening around 4:30 pm. The drive to Escobilla can be longer than expected—some reviews note about 1 hour and 20 minutes instead of 45—so a bit of patience is needed. The road is generally good, and the guides do their best to make the trip informative and engaging.
Once at the beach, the atmosphere is relaxed. Guides like Rosa and Saul are praised for their friendly demeanor and expert knowledge. They take their time to ensure guests understand the importance of conserving sea turtles, which makes the experience both fun and educational.
The actual turtle release is a coordinated effort—sometimes the hatchlings are already ready to go, and other times you might help guide them gently to the water. Many people find this part profoundly moving, especially when combined with a beautiful sunset. The return to your hotel is around 8:00 pm, making it a full but rewarding evening.
Authentic Feedback from Other Travelers
Reviewers highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude as major pluses. Curtis, for example, mentions Oscar as “a great tour guide” who was “very accommodating,” enhancing the whole experience. Karen notes how Rosa and Saul “gave us time to fully see the little ones reach the ocean and see mama turtles arrive,” which is exactly what makes this tour special.
On the flip side, one reviewer expressed disappointment when their guide didn’t show up, emphasizing the importance of confirming bookings and the variability that can occur. This serves as a reminder to communicate well and possibly check reviews before booking.
Practical Considerations
The tour is most suitable for travelers comfortable with a 4-hour outing and fine with a drive of over an hour. It’s an eco-tourism activity with an emphasis on conservation—if that appeals to you, you’ll probably find it worth the price. Ensure you’re prepared for the weather; the tour is dependent on good conditions, and cancellations due to weather are fully refundable.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a jacket for the evening, as coastal evenings can cool down. The tour’s private nature is a big plus for those wanting a more personalized experience. It’s not a particularly strenuous activity, but patience is key, especially during travel and waiting times.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts, conservation-minded travelers, and anyone who appreciates a meaningful connection with wildlife. It’s especially suited for those who want to learn about sea turtles from knowledgeable guides and enjoy a sunset in a serene environment. Families with older children who are interested in wildlife might also find this a profound outing, though very young kids should be prepared for a longer drive and evening activity.
If you’re seeking a unique, educational, and emotional moment during your trip, this tour definitely fits the bill. It’s not just about observing but actively participating in the lifecycle of these incredible animals.
The Sum Up

The Baby Turtle Release in Coyote Escobilla Beach is more than just a tour—it’s a chance to witness a vital conservation effort firsthand. The combination of expert guides, scenic views, and a meaningful activity makes it stand out among typical excursions. It’s a great pick for travelers who value authentic experiences and are interested in wildlife and environmental preservation.
While the travel time might be longer than some expect, the chance to see baby turtles reach the sea—and maybe even help them along—adds a special touch that’s hard to forget. If you’re looking for an evening activity that combines education, nature, and a bit of awe, this is worth considering. Just remember to confirm your booking and prepare for a relaxed but rewarding evening.
Baby Turtle Release in Coyote Escobilla Beach
“Oscar was a great tour guide. Very accommodating. Very knowledgeable. Would recommend him to everyone”
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, private pickup from your hotel in Huatulco is included, and you’ll be driven to Coyote Escobilla Beach.
How long does the tour take?
Approximately 4 hours, including pickup, drive, and the turtle release.
What is the cost of this tour?
$85.00 per person, with an additional entrance fee of 200 pesos (around $12) for the turtle release.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable, and the tour can be rescheduled or canceled free of charge if weather conditions aren’t suitable.
Is water provided?
Yes, bottled water is included during the trip.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a jacket for the evening as it gets cooler near the coast.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but consider the drive time and the evening activity if traveling with very young children.
What happens if the guide doesn’t show up?
One review noted a guide missing, so it’s good to confirm your booking and keep contact details handy.
Is the experience eco-friendly?
Yes, it supports conservation efforts by helping release hatchlings into the ocean.
What else can I expect at the beach?
Beyond the turtle release, enjoy the peaceful scenery and the sunset views, making it a visually memorable event.
If you’re after a blend of scenic beauty, wildlife appreciation, and meaningful involvement, this tour checks all those boxes. Just go with an open mind and a sense of wonder—those tiny turtles will thank you.
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