New Signs, Shared Responsibility
New turtle conservation signs at Playa Linda highlight simple ways everyone can help protect nesting turtles. While we celebrate these efforts and the support of the Coast Guard, a recent night of heavy poaching reminds us how urgently we need volunteers and community support.
9/10/20252 min read
This month, Playa Linda received a meaningful gift: new turtle conservation signs, donated by an anonymous supporter. These signs are more than reminders on wood — they are tools for education, showing every visitor how simple choices can protect sea turtles.
What the New Signs Say
Mantén la playa limpia / Keep the beach clean
Trash left behind can harm both nesting mothers and hatchlings. A clean beach is safer for turtles and for people.Mantén la playa plana / Keep the beach flat
Holes and sand mounds create obstacles and traps. Hatchlings can fall in, and mothers may struggle to nest. Smooth the sand before leaving.Mantén la playa oscura / Keep the beach dark
Turtles use the moon and stars to navigate. Artificial lights, fires, and fireworks confuse them, sending hatchlings away from the ocean.Wildlife Conservation Law No. 7317
At the bottom of each sign is a reminder: poaching turtle eggs is illegal in Costa Rica. This law exists to protect endangered species and holds poachers accountable.
We also extend our thanks once again to the Coast Guard, whose presence on the beach continues to deter poachers. Their partnership, along with the dedication of our volunteers, is vital to protecting Playa Linda’s turtles. Providing meals for visiting officers has helped sustain this support, and we are hopeful to see more of them on patrol in the coming weeks.
But the work is not easy. Last week, we faced one of the most difficult nights of the season: 10 nests were poached in just a few hours by a man on a motorcycle, striking just after high tide and before our patrols reached the nests. It was a sickening reminder of how vulnerable the turtles remain and how urgently more help is needed.
How You Can Support Our Efforts
Volunteer: Extra patrol coverage on evening and morning shifts can save more nests.
Donate Supplies: Gloves, headlamps, buckets, chicken wire, and wood are always needed.
Contribute Funds: Support Coast Guard meals, hatchery expansion, or patrol gear. Email us directly, and we will provide the best way to give.
Every sign, every volunteer, and every act of support makes Playa Linda safer for sea turtles. Together, we can protect more nests and ensure hatchlings continue their journey to the sea. With the community’s help, a clean, flat, and dark beach is possible — and so is a brighter future for the turtles who depend on it.