Every year, starting March 1, sea turtles return to our shores to nest, and they need our support. Hollywood Beach is a shining example of how a vibrant coastal city can also be a haven for these incredible creatures. However, artificial lighting poses a serious threat to nesting turtles and their hatchlings. According to Broward County’s monthly turtle lighting surveys, a staggering 25% of light reaching the beach comes from interior lighting alone.
How You Can Help Keep the Beach Dark for Turtles
Bright lights can disorient nesting turtles and their hatchlings, leading them away from the safety of the ocean. But small changes can make a big difference! Here’s how you can help:
✅ Turn off lights when leaving a room.
✅ Close curtains and blinds after sunset.
✅ Move lights away from windows and balcony doors.
✅ Use fixtures with shades to direct light downward.
✅ Install dimmer switches and opt for low-wattage, warm white bulbs.
✅ Tint windows and patio doors with 15% transmittance or less.
If you’re wondering what compliant tinting looks like, check out Sage Beach (2205 S Surf Rd, Hollywood), a property that met Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) standards in its final inspection.
Why This Matters
Broward County is home to three species of nesting sea turtles—leatherbacks, loggerheads, and green turtles—each playing a vital role in our ecosystem. Since 1981, the Broward County Sea Turtle Conservation Program has been monitoring these nests, and long-term data suggests encouraging increases in local turtle populations.
By making small adjustments to our lighting habits, we can help ensure that future generations of sea turtles continue to call our beaches home. Let’s work together to keep our coastline dark, safe, and welcoming for these amazing marine animals!