Face to face with a sea turtle – on La Graciosa
There are moments you never forget. A sea turtle underwater, which looks at you briefly before gliding majestically on. On La Graciosa this is no coincidence – it’s the norm. The Reserva Marina del Archipiélago Chinijo covering 70,000 ha, has been protecting these waters for decades. The result: turtles that are no longer afraid of people.
The species and where to find them
Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)
| Loggerhead turtle La Graciosa | |
|---|---|
| Art | Loggerhead sea turtle – the most common species in the Chinijo Archipelago |
| Size | Approx. 80–110 cm in length · 80–140 kg |
| Conservation status | Endangered (IUCN) · EU Habitats Directive |
| Best time to spot them | All year round – particularly common in summer/autumn |
| Best spots | Playa de la Cocina, Playa Francesa, west coast |
Caretta caretta is the most common turtle species in the waters around La GraciosaThey feed mainly on jellyfish and squid – which is why they are often found in shallow coastal waters.
Where to find the turtles
Playa de la Cocinabest snorkelling spot, calm and windless, clear water – ideal turtle encounter zone. Playa Francesacalm waters, lava rocks providing a habitat. West coastdeeper waters, turtles often visible as they surface. Port of Caleta del Sebooccasionally turtles right by the harbour jetty.
How to behave correctly
The rules for encounters
Seeing a turtle is a privilege – not a right. Rules protect the animals and ensure the experience remains enjoyable for everyone:
| Rules of conduct when encountering turtles | |
|---|---|
| Keep your distance | At least 2 metres – do not touch, do not chase |
| Do not feed them | Sea turtles are wild animals – they do not eat human food |
| No flash | Underwater photography without a flash |
| Swim calmly | No sudden movements, no noise |
| Let them surface | If a turtle surfaces: make way |
| Chemical sun cream | Use mineral-based – chemical harms the marine ecosystem |
Tips for spotting turtles
- Playa de la Cocina in the morning: best chance of seeing turtles
- Bring your own snorkelling gear – none available for hire on site
- Stay calm and move slowly in the water: the turtles will then come closer
- Buceo La Graciosa: guided snorkelling tours focusing on turtles
Nature conservation – mandatory information
- Wild camping prohibited – without exception across the entire island
- Campfires prohibited – including on the beach
- Cycling permitted only on designated tracks
- Entry to Montaña Clara, Roque del Este and Roque del Oeste prohibited
- Archipiélago Chinijo Nature Park · Lanzarote UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1993
- Reserva Marina del Archipiélago Chinijo – 70,000 ha, Europe’s largest marine reserve
No guarantee – but the sighting rate on La Graciosa is exceptionally high. Playa de la Cocina and Playa Francesa are the most reliable spots.
No – touching them is prohibited and harms the animals. Keep your distance and watch them.
Conclusion
- Sea turtles on La Graciosa: all year round, frequent, unforgettable.
- Playa de la Cocina is the best spot – sheltered from the wind, clear waters, turtle-friendly.
- Keep your distance, do not touch them, use mineral-based sun cream.
This article is based on on-site research by the go-la-graciosa.com editorial team. Last updated: April 2026
