Our Mission
At Villa Star of the Sea, sea turtle preservation is a natural extension of our respect for the land, the ocean, and the
remarkable wildlife that shares this coastline with us. Playa de Coco is more than a beautiful beach—it is part of a
living coastal ecosystem where sea turtles have returned for generations to nest and begin the next stage of life.
Protecting that cycle matters deeply to us. By helping safeguard nests, supporting hatchlings, and treating each release
with care and reverence, we do our part to honor one of nature’s most extraordinary journeys. As the world population of
humanity grows,
Roughly 37% to 40% of the world’s population lives near ocean coastlines, and as coastal development expands, it increasingly
overlaps with the beaches and nearshore environments that sea turtles depend on for nesting, feeding, and safe passage. As
more land is built upon and more human activity moves closer to the shore, sea turtles face growing pressure from habitat
loss, disturbance, pollution, lighting, and other forms of encroachment, which is one of the reasons many sea turtle populations
remain threatened or endangered.
Sea Turtle preservation creates a deeper connection between people and place. When guests witness hatchlings making their way
to the sea, they are reminded that true beauty is not only something to admire, but also something to hehold and protect. Sea turtle
preservation at Villa Star of the Sea is about stewardship, education, and hope. It allows us to share the wonder of Playa de
Coco in a way that is meaningful, responsible, and lasting—for our visitors today, and for the generations of turtles still to come.
Nest Protection
In our sanctuary, sea turtle nests are carefully protected to improve the hatchlings’ chance of survival while preserving the natural
process as much as possible. To help guard against threats in the wild, we use protective enclosures with wire mesh walls and roofing,
which help shield the nests from predators such as domestic dogs, birds, crabs, and unintended human disturbance. Each nest is monitored
throughout the incubation period so that conditions can be observed and the hatchlings can emerge in a safer, more controlled
environment before continuing their journey to the sea.
Hatchling Releases
Hatchlings are released with great care and only when they are ready, in a way that reflects as closely as possible what would occur
in nature. Our goal is not to interfere, but to protect and support this fragile stage of life while allowing the turtles to make their
own journey to the sea. Visitors may at times have the privilege of quietly observing this remarkable moment as the hatchlings emerge,
orient themselves, and instinctively make their way across the sand toward the ocean—one of nature’s most moving and unforgettable sights.
Guest Education
Our site is designed to provide helpful information and resources about sea turtles, sea turtle conservation, coastal ecology, and respectful
viewing practices. By sharing knowledge about the life cycle of sea turtles, the importance of protecting nesting beaches, and the delicate
balance of coastal ecosystems, we hope to encourage greater understanding, appreciation, and care. We also believe that respectful viewing
is essential, allowing visitors to witness these extraordinary animals in a way that honors their natural behavior and helps protect their future.