At Waters Edge Inn, we are proud to be your go-to stay on Folly Beach, especially during one of the most magical times of the year: sea turtle nesting season. From May through October, our shores transform into a nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles. In this blog, you will learn how these incredible creatures return to Folly, how the community helps protect them, and how you and your family can be part of it all (simply by staying at Waters Edge Inn).
During sea turtle nesting season, the turtles return to the same beaches where they were born to lay their eggs, often nesting three to six times in one season before waiting a few years to return. You may even see a nesting female on the beach during a late-night stroll from Waters Edge Inn. To protect these turtles and their hatchlings, Folly Beach enforces turtle-friendly practices like amber lighting near the beach and city ordinances that reduce light pollution. These efforts help guide hatchlings safely to the ocean, giving them a fighting chance at life.
In addition, the Folly Beach Turtle Watch (FBTW), in partnership with the SCDNR Marine Turtle Conservation Program, works tirelessly through the season to patrol the beach, mark and protect nests, and gather essential data. Thanks to their dedication (and community involvement), Folly Beach has seen an increase in nests, averaging around 86 annually. Our guests can join this mission, too. Whether volunteering with the patrol team or following the “Clean. Dark. Flat.” guidelines (remove beach gear, turn off lights, and fill in any holes), even small actions make a big difference. You and your family can also participate in beach cleanups and conservation events led by the Folly Beach Association of Business Litter Committee.
Sea turtle nesting season is more than just a seasonal event; it is a shared opportunity to protect an ancient, threatened species. When staying at Waters Edge Inn, we invite you to learn more, lend a hand, or donate to the Folly Beach Turtle Watch and the SCDNR Marine Turtle Conservation program. Your support helps keep their journey alive for generations ahead!
Visit FollyBeach.com/turtle or CityOfFollyBeach.com/news-updates to learn how you can get involved.