Share the Beach
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Gopher Tortoise (look for claws) | Sea Turtle (look for flippers) |
Gopher Tortises and Sea Turtles are found on our beaches and often mistaken for each other. |
Check out our Share the Beach brochure (26MB). St. Johns County's guide to sharing and protecting the beaches.
Tips for Sharing the Beach
- Use designated walkovers. Please stay off dunes and vegetation.
- Limit driving time on the beach; exit beach at nearest beach ramp.
- Stay out of Conservation Zone, 15 feet seaward of the dune line.
- At the end of your visit fill any holes left by sand castles and tire tracks.
- Do not leave beach chairs or canopies on the beach overnight.
- Reduce litter and marine debris – dispose of trash properly. Pick up any fishing line and plastic that you see and participate in beach clean-ups.
- Never approach sea turtles emerging from or returning to the sea. Nesting females are vulnerable and timid, and can be easily frightened away.
- Please report all dead, injured, stranded turtles and hatchlings or anyone harassing sea turtles or their nests to 1-888-404-FWCC.
- Remember: Leave only your footprints in the sand.