Endangered Caretta-Caretta Sea Turtles in Kefalonia: Where to See Them & How to Help

If you’re dreaming of a holiday that blends nature, wildlife, and unforgettable coastal scenery, Kefalonia’s endangered Caretta-Caretta sea turtles are a must-see. These incredible creatures—also known as Loggerhead turtles—return every year to the island’s sandy shores to nest, making Kefalonia one of the most important turtle habitats in Greece.

What Makes Caretta-Caretta Turtles So Special?

The Caretta-Caretta turtle is the only sea turtle species that consistently nests in Greece. Recognisable by their large heads and reddish-brown shells, they are among the oldest surviving marine species on Earth. Adults can grow up to 1.2 metres long and live for more than 60 years.

Kefalonia’s warm climate, protected beaches, and clean waters make it a safe haven for these endangered reptiles—particularly during the nesting and hatching seasons

Turtle Nesting Season in Kefalonia: When to Visit

From May to October, female turtles return to Kefalonia’s beaches under the cover of night to dig nests in the sand and lay their eggs. Around 60–70 days later, the tiny hatchlings emerge and begin their journey to the sea—an incredible moment of nature you might be lucky enough to witness.

Top nesting beaches in Kefalonia include:

• Skala Beach
• Katelios Beach
• Mounda Beach near Ratzakli
• Parts of Avithos and Trapezaki

These areas are carefully monitored and protected, and some are managed by local wildlife groups and volunteers.

Where to Spot Adult Loggerhead Turtles in Argostoli

For a close-up turtle encounter, head to Argostoli’s Koutavos Lagoon and the De Bosset Bridge early in the morning. Here, adult Caretta-Caretta turtles often glide through the water near fishing boats, hoping for scraps. It’s a popular and unforgettable sight for families and nature lovers alike.

📸 Tip: Bring a camera—you may catch that perfect moment of a turtle surfacing for air just metres from the shore!

How You Can Help Protect Sea Turtles in Kefalonia

🐢 Volunteer or support local projects like Wildlife Sense, a conservation group based in Kefalonia that monitors and protects nesting sites.

🐢 Respect Turtle Nesting Areas: Avoid disturbing marked nests, use red torches at night, and never leave rubbish on the beach.

🐢 Educate and Share: The more visitors know about these endangered sea turtles, the more we can protect them for future generations.

Stay at Amari Villa: Your Base for Wildlife Adventures

Located just a short drive from Argostoli and Kefalonia’s best turtle-watching beaches, Amari Villa offers the perfect blend of luxury, seclusion, and access to nature. With panoramic sea views and plenty of space for families and groups, it’s the ideal base for those who want to explore the island and its incredible marine life.

👉 Book direct at amarivilla.projectupdates.co.uk/wp/ for best rates and local insights.