Across some of the world’s most breathtaking coastlines, luxury travel experiences are increasingly being paired with meaningful conservation efforts. At resorts like The Brando, Trisara and Kokomo Private Island, protecting endangered sea turtles has become an important part of the guest experience.
With World Turtle Day approaching on May 23, these properties are spotlighting the critical work being done to protect vulnerable turtle populations through scientific research, habitat preservation and community engagement.
The Brando: Protecting Green Sea Turtles in French Polynesia
Each year between October and April, the beaches of Tetiaroa become an important nesting ground for green sea turtles.
Through partnerships with Te Mana o Te Moana and Tetiaroa Society, teams actively monitor nesting activity, identify female turtles, protect eggs and track hatchlings as they make their way to the ocean.
The long-term conservation program has produced impressive results. Since 2007, researchers have recorded more than 9,000 turtle tracks on Tetiaroa’s beaches, while recent seasons have seen more than 15,000 hatchlings successfully emerge.
These initiatives help preserve one of French Polynesia’s most important turtle habitats while giving guests a deeper understanding of the fragile marine ecosystems surrounding the island.
Trisara: Protecting Nesting Grounds in Thailand
Along Phuket’s northwest coastline, Trisara has played a significant role in protecting sea turtle nesting habitats since 2016.
The resort is part of the Mai Khao Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Declaration, an initiative focused on preserving nesting grounds along the Andaman coast.
Its efforts have already helped return more than 449 hatchlings to the Andaman Sea, while the resort’s beachfront continues to attract nesting green turtles year after year.
Trisara has also been recognized by Thailand’s Department of Marine and Coastal Resources for its commitment to marine conservation, with resort leadership receiving the “Rak Talay Ying Cheep” medal, which translates to “Saving the Sea.”
Looking ahead, the resort plans to expand its environmental initiatives even further with the opening of a new Marine Discovery Center in 2027, where guests will be able to participate in immersive educational experiences focused on ocean conservation.
Kokomo Private Island: Supporting Research and Local Communities
In Fiji, Kokomo Private Island is working closely with researchers to better understand and protect sea turtle populations throughout the region.
The resort partners with the University of the South Pacific and marine researcher Dr. Susanna Piovano to monitor nesting sites on nearby islands and identify key turtle habitats.
Their work includes protecting nesting grounds, collecting critical turtle data and educating local communities to ensure long-term conservation success.
As one of the earliest contributors of turtle data in Fiji’s Kadavu region, Kokomo has identified hawksbill nests and green sea turtles both on the island and throughout nearby reefs, where turtles can often be spotted year-round.
Travel That Supports Conservation
For travellers increasingly seeking meaningful experiences, these resorts demonstrate that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Whether it’s witnessing hatchlings make their first journey to the sea, learning from marine researchers or simply staying at properties that actively protect fragile ecosystems, guests at these destinations can enjoy unforgettable vacations while supporting important conservation work around the world.
