All About Turtles on Hatteras Island

Discover the story behind one of the Outer Banks’ most famous visitors at this special free talk that will engage nature fans of all ages. Sponsored by the National Park Service and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the “All About Turtles” session is a fun way to take a break from exploring the beach, and to learn something new about these summertime vacationers that flock to the Outer Banks year after year.

Hundreds of endangered sea turtles arrive on the local beaches every summer to deposit their eggs along the shoreline. After weeks in the sand, dozens of baby sea turtles will inevitably hatch at every nest, and pop up out of the sand in what is known as a “boil,” before making a mad beeline to the ocean waters. There, they start a dangerous trek all the way to the Gulf Stream. The process from start to finish is inspiring and treacherous, and this journey is documented in detail during this special presentation. Held at the Hatteras Island Visitor Center Pavilion close to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, this quick 30-minute talk will shed new light on one of the most unique occurrences on the area beaches. As a result, visitors of all ages will learn something new that will inspire them to appreciate the local seashore for years to come.