The warm, clear seas and beaches of Amami Oshima and Kagoshima’s southern islands are important nesting grounds for sea turtles, and witnessing their life cycle is a moving wildlife experience. From around May to August, female sea turtles — including loggerhead and green turtles — return to the beaches where they were born to come ashore at night, dig nests in the sand and lay their eggs, before returning to the sea. Weeks later, the tiny hatchlings emerge and scramble down the beach to the waves. The islands' clear waters are also home to turtles year-round, and swimmers and snorkellers may encounter them gliding over the reefs. Because turtles and their nests are protected and vulnerable, any turtle-watching must be done responsibly — with local conservation guides, following strict rules to avoid disturbing the animals. For nature lovers, a respectful glimpse of Amami’s sea turtles is a special and memorable experience.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Amami Oshima & islands, Kagoshima |
| Hours | Nesting at night (May–Aug) |
| Admission | Guided tours vary |
| Time needed | Evening/tour |
| Best time | Nesting May–Aug; turtles year-round |
What to See
- Sea turtles nesting on the beaches (May–Aug).
- Hatchlings emerging and heading to the sea.
- Turtles gliding over reefs while snorkelling.
- A respectful, guided wildlife encounter.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Amami Oshima island.
- Pair with diving and snorkelling offshore.
- Read our Kagoshima overview .
Getting There
- By ferry/air: to Amami Oshima, then guided tours.
- From conservation guides: responsible turtle-watching.
Tips
Come in the nesting season (roughly May to August) for the chance to see turtles nesting or hatchlings emerging, but only with a responsible local conservation guide who follows strict rules — never disturb turtles, nests or hatchlings, or use flash/lights. Turtles can also be seen while snorkelling year-round, so respect the wildlife and its fragile habitat at all times.
