We Visited a Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda on Our Honeymoon

When we planned our honeymoon to Sri Lanka, we imagined palm-fringed beaches, spicy curries, and romantic sunsets — and we certainly got all of that. But one unexpected highlight turned out to be our visit to a turtle hatchery in Kosgoda, a small coastal village along the southwest shore of the island. It wasn’t just heartwarming — it was one of the most meaningful and memorable moments of our trip.

We arrived in Kosgoda on a warm afternoon, just in time to catch the golden hour glow along the beach. Our driver recommended we stop at one of the local turtle conservation projects, and we’re so glad we did. There are a few hatcheries along this stretch of coastline, all working toward protecting endangered sea turtles — and educating travelers like us about the challenges these gentle creatures face.

At the hatchery, we were greeted by a kind guide who gave us a personal tour. The facility was simple but full of care — rows of protected sand beds with tiny turtle eggs carefully marked and dated, and several shallow pools where hatchlings and injured turtles were being looked after.

We learned that Sri Lanka is home to five species of sea turtles, including the Green, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, Leatherback, and Olive Ridley turtles. Many of them return to these very shores to lay their eggs — often at night, digging deep holes in the sand to bury their clutch before slipping silently back into the ocean.

One of the most special parts of our visit was seeing the tiny hatchlings — no bigger than the palm of a hand — wriggling and flapping in their water tanks. They were only a day or two old, yet so full of energy and instinct. We were told they’d be released that evening, under the safety of nightfall, to give them the best chance of survival.

And here’s the best part — we got to help release a few ourselves.

As the sun dipped below the horizon and the sky turned shades of pink and gold, we stood barefoot on the beach holding a small coconut shell each, carrying baby turtles inside. With a gentle tilt, we let them slide onto the sand and watched as they instinctively made their way toward the waves. It was incredibly moving — knowing that only a few out of hundreds would survive, and yet each one still had a chance because of the care and protection provided by the hatchery.

It wasn’t your typical honeymoon activity, but it was perfect. Watching those little lives begin their journey, hand-in-hand on a quiet beach, made us feel more connected — not just to each other, but to something greater.

If you’re visiting Sri Lanka and want to do something beautiful and impactful, we highly recommend a stop at the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery. It’s a gentle reminder that even the smallest actions — like releasing a hatchling — can carry great meaning, especially when shared with someone you love.