Nestled on the southwest coast of St. Croix, Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge protects nearly two miles of pristine beach that serve as a vital nesting site for leatherback, green, and hawksbill sea turtles. Established in 1984 and managed by the US Fish & Wildlife Service, the refuge is carefully maintained to support these endangered species while offering the public unique educational opportunities.
Turtles of Sandy Point 🐢
- Leatherback turtles arrive March–November and nest regularly on Sandy Point.
- Green turtles and hawksbills also nest here, particularly in numbers: recent seasons saw over 1,400 green nests, ~300 hawksbill nests, and dozens of leatherback nests annually.
The St. Croix Sea Turtle Project
Since 1977, the St. Croix Sea Turtle Project—supported by The Ocean Foundation and run in partnership with the US Fish & Wildlife Service—has monitored these nesting populations, collected scientific data, and supported local students and volunteers through training and conservation.
Their initiatives include:
- Nest counts and identification of nesting females.
- Hatchling success studies and excavations.
- Satellite tagging to track migration (e.g. Loggerback “Barb”).
- Education programs like Sunset Watch, Turtle Tracks & Shells, Sea Turtle Scientist, and beach cleanups at Sandy Point.
Why Sandy Point Matters
As a federally recognized National Wildlife Refuge, Sandy Point offers time-limited, guided access to observe nesting turtles in their natural habitat—a rare opportunity for researchers, students, and residents. The data collected here contributes to national and international conservation efforts, with findings published in peer-reviewed journals.
How You Can Help
- Report turtle sightings or strandings via the 24/7 STAR hotline: +1 (340) 690‑0474.
- Volunteer with beach patrols, nest monitoring, or outreach programs.
- Adopt a turtle or donate—the proceeds support student training, research, and free educational programming.
- Join public events like Refuge Week, Sea Turtle Week, art contests, and beach cleanups with STX Turtles at Sandy Point.
Protecting Our Ocean Ambassadors
By supporting the St. Croix Sea Turtle Project and respecting refuge regulations, you’re helping safeguard these ancient mariners and the ecosystem they rely on. To stay informed, follow STX Turtles on Facebook (@stxleatherbacks) and Instagram (#stxturtles).
Learn More & Get Involved
- Visit the St. Croix Sea Turtle Project website to explore nesting reports, track turtles, and access educational materials.
- Plan a weekend trip to Sandy Point Refuge (check access hours).
- Call the STAR hotline, +1 (340) 690‑0474, if you encounter a turtle in need—every report helps save lives.
Let’s join together to protect Sandy Point’s sea turtles—for St. Croix, the global community, and future generations.
