Visiting the largest enclosed sea turtle hospital in the world located on South Padre Island, TX! This is Cowgirl, a beautiful Atlantic Green sea turtle resident.
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Sea Turtle Inc South Padre Island

4.7
·6k reviews·South Padre Island, United States

A dedicated non-profit rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sea turtles, while educating the public on conservation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
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Visiting the largest enclosed sea turtle hospital in the world located on South Padre Island, TX! This is Cowgirl, a beautiful Atlantic Green sea turtle resident.

Sea Turtle Inc South Padre Island

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A dedicated non-profit rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sea turtles, while educating the public on conservation.

4.7
(6k reviews)

"This place is amazing! Everyone should take the time to visit and learn about these beautiful endangered sea creatures."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your admission tickets in advance on their website.

⏰ Check Feeding Times

Enhance your visit by attending scheduled feeding times and educational talks.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 6,204 reviews

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rehabilitation Hospital

Rehabilitation Hospital

Hospital Wing

Witness firsthand the incredible work of rescuing and healing injured sea turtles. See patients like Cowgirl receiving care.

Educational Exhibits

Educational Exhibits

Main Exhibit Area

Learn about different sea turtle species, their challenges, and the conservation efforts underway. Interactive displays make learning fun.

Native Wildlife Walkway

Native Wildlife Walkway

Adjacent to Hospital

Spot native birds, crabs, and possibly even an alligator while strolling towards the hospital wing.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Sea Turtle Inc.

Book tickets online to save time, especially during peak season. Check their website for feeding times and educational talks to maximize your learning experience. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and get a more intimate view of the rehabilitation efforts.

Support Sea Turtle Conservation

Sea Turtle Inc. is a non-profit organization. Your admission fee and gift shop purchases directly support their vital work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sea turtles. Consider adopting a turtle or making a donation to further aid their mission.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon Educational Talks
Why
Engaging staff insights
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Benson, a patient here at The Turtle Hospital, had a big day! She got a nice cleaning and had barnacles removed! 😮🐢 #connectandprotect #compassioniscontagious #rescuerehabrelease #seaturtlerescue #turtle #turtlehospital #marathonturtlehospital #theturtlehospital #sea #seaturtle #seaturtles #Science #nature #turtletok #ocean #beach #seaturtlehospital #seaturtlerehab #wildlife #floridakeys #STEM #e...
@turtlehospital
2.6M likes • 48.2M views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your admission tickets in advance on their website. Instagram

⏰ Check Feeding Times

Enhance your visit by attending scheduled feeding times and educational talks. Reddit

don't touch the boat!! yall asked for this sound 😆 #seaturtle #nemo @Perdido Beach Resort
@gypzeee
270.1K likes • 921K views
🌊🐢 Part 1: Ila Loetscher – The Turtle Lady - Did you know the founder of Sea Turtle Inc. once appeared on Late Night with David Letterman back in 1985? Ila Loetscher, aviator turned conservationist, dedicated her life in South Padre Island to protecting sea turtles 🐢💚 Here’s the first half of her unforgettable interview, a little piece of RGV history on the national stage!
brownsvilletoday
5.3K likes • 76.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Walkway

Don't miss the walkway to the hospital for a chance to see local wildlife. Reddit

🛍️ Support with Purchases

Gift shop items directly fund turtle rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Reddit

Turtles are heading home! Sea Turtle Inc. released sea turtle patients back into the wild following the recent cold-stunning at South Padre Island, TX.
seaturtleinctx
482 likes • 126K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your admission tickets in advance on their website. Instagram

⏰ Check Feeding Times

Enhance your visit by attending scheduled feeding times and educational talks. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Walkway

Don't miss the walkway to the hospital for a chance to see local wildlife. Reddit

🛍️ Support with Purchases

Gift shop items directly fund turtle rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Reddit

🤝 Consider Donating

Your contributions are vital for the care of these endangered creatures. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Sea Turtle Inc. for its vital conservation work and educational impact. The facility is lauded for its transparency, allowing guests to see the rehabilitation process firsthand. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, a few visitors have noted occasional curt interactions with specific staff members.

"Unexpected amazing time!! This place makes you fall in love! Lily was so awesome and personable. She showed me around and taught me about what they do here. I appreciate the education. I love sea turtles! Thank you!"

Riley Rebong

"I visited Sea Turtle Inc in South Padre Island and absolutely loved it! It was amazing to see the rescued turtles up close and learn about their recovery. The work they do to protect and rehabilitate sea turtles is truly inspiring. It’s definitely a must-visit if you’re in the area!"

Anas Sayyad

"Every year when I visit South Padre Island, one of my favorite stops is always Sea Turtle Inc. It’s such a special place filled with heart, compassion, and dedication to protecting these incredible creatures. I’m amazed by how much they’ve grown and how deeply they continue to educate and inspire our community.
It is was bittersweet, when two of my favorite residents, Allison and Fred, are no longer with us. They touched so many lives and will be forever missed—but their legacy lives on in every turtle that Sea Turtle Inc. rescues and releases. Thank you to everyone there for the love and care you pour into your work. 🐢💚"

J. W.

What People Like

Incredible rescue work
Educational exhibits
Passionate staff

What People Dislike

Occasional grumpy staff

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sea Turtle Inc. is located at 6617 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is available. Many visitors also arrive via local shuttles or ride-sharing services. Instagram

While there isn't direct public bus service to the facility, local island trolleys or ride-sharing services can be a convenient option for getting around South Padre Island and reaching Sea Turtle Inc. Instagram

There is parking available at Sea Turtle Inc., though it can fill up quickly during peak times. Arriving early or considering alternative transport is recommended. Instagram

Yes, visitors without a car can utilize local taxis, ride-sharing services, or potentially island shuttles to reach Sea Turtle Inc. Instagram

Absolutely! Sea Turtle Inc. is a highly recommended stop for anyone visiting South Padre Island, offering a unique educational and conservation experience. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices are generally around $10 for adults, with discounts for seniors, military, and children aged 5-17. Children 4 and under are free. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing. Instagram

Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and guarantee entry, especially during busy periods. Instagram+1

Hours vary by season. During the off-season (Aug 13 - May 31), they are typically open daily from 10 am to 4 pm. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date hours. Instagram

Yes, discounts are often available for seniors and military personnel. Check their website or inquire at the ticket counter for details. Instagram

Yes, Sea Turtle Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to sea turtle rescue, rehabilitation, and education. Your admission and purchases directly support their mission. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see various sea turtle tanks, learn about their rehabilitation process in the hospital wing, walk along a native wildlife path, and visit the gift shop. Educational talks and feeding sessions are also offered. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Sea Turtle Inc. is very family-friendly, offering an educational and engaging experience for children of all ages. They can learn about marine life and conservation. Instagram+1

Yes, Sea Turtle Inc. often has scheduled feeding times for their resident turtles. Check their daily schedule upon arrival for specific times. Reddit

Ila Loetscher, the founder of Sea Turtle Inc., was known as 'The Turtle Lady' and even appeared on David Letterman in 1985 for her dedication to sea turtle conservation. Instagram

While direct interaction with the rehabilitation patients is limited to protect them, you can observe them closely in their tanks and learn about their stories from the knowledgeable staff. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Sea Turtle Inc. itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant. However, there are often snacks or drinks available for purchase, and many dining options are nearby on Padre Boulevard. Reddit

Nearby dining options on South Padre Island include places like Cafe on the Beach, Ceviche Ceviche, and Sunrise Bakery, offering a variety of cuisines. Reddit

It's generally best to check their specific policy, but often visitors can bring water bottles. For full meals, it's advisable to dine before or after your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed in most public areas of Sea Turtle Inc. However, always be mindful of signage and staff instructions, especially in sensitive rehabilitation areas. Instagram

The vibrant turtle tanks, the newly renovated hospital facilities, and the native wildlife walkway offer great photo opportunities. Capturing the passion of the staff is also rewarding. InstagramReddit

Release events are special occasions. If a release is scheduled during your visit, photography is usually permitted, but it's a rare and emotional event. Instagram

While generally permitted, avoid using flash photography directly at the turtles, as it can disturb them. Always respect the animals and the facility's guidelines. TikTok

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