Marine turtles
Marine turtles are reptiles (cold-blooded vertebrate animals) that have lived in our oceans for over 100 million years.
They are well adapted for life in the ocean and use their streamlined body and strong flippers to swim and dig nests on the beach.
Nesting
Marine turtles nest on Gold Coast beaches between November and March. There are only a few large nesting populations of green, hawksbill, and loggerhead turtles left in the world, making every nesting season especially important.
Australia is home to some of the largest marine turtle nesting areas and is the only country where flatback turtles nest.
All six species of marine turtles found in Australian waters are protected under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). In Queensland, marine turtles and their habitat are further protected under the Nature Conservation Act (DCEEW 2025).
Status
Marine turtles are recognised internationally as species of conservation concern. The green turtle is listed as 'vulnerable' in Australia, meaning that it may become endangered if threats to its survival continue. The loggerhead turtle is 'endangered' in Australia, meaning it may become extinct.
Be turtle-friendly
Follow these simple steps to protect our wildlife:
- If you live near the beach, turn off or redirect lights, and use motion sensors, timers or red/warm LEDs. Artificial light can disorient turtles.
- Keep pets contained and always walk dogs on a leash.
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife - approaching too closely can alter their natural behaviour.
See turtle tracks or a nesting turtle? Help protect them by reporting your sighting to Turtle Watch on 07 2103 5796
Threats to turtles
Vehicles
Driving vehicles on the beach, particularly on the dunes, can destroy nests and cause sand compaction, making it difficult for turtle hatchlings to emerge from their nests. Deep tyre tracks in the sand can create a trap for the hatchlings, making them easy targets for predators and exposing them to high temperatures and dehydration.
Predators
Turtle nests and hatchlings are naturally preyed upon by lace monitors, crabs and birds. They are also put in danger when they cross paths with animals such as foxes, cats and dogs, which further decrease their chance of survival.
Offshore threats
Boat strikes, entanglement in nets and fishing lines and consumption of litter are a significant threats for marine animals worldwide. A number of deceased turtles have washed up on the beach at South Stradbroke Island.