Night of the Arribazón: Turtle Release at Playa Escobilla, Crucecita

CRUCECITA ECO TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Night of the Arribazón: Turtle Release at Playa Escobilla, Crucecita

A guided visit to Playa Escobilla to witness the seasonal arribazón of sea turtles—an eco‑tour that concentrates on watching turtles come ashore to spawn.

Night of the Arribazón: Turtle Release at Playa Escobilla, Crucecita.

Duration
5-6 hours
Location
Crucecita
Operator
WestCoast Huatulco DMC
Category
Eco Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Playa Escobilla, known locally as “Playa Tortuguera,” is a long sweep of fine white sand framed by blue‑green water and a pronounced swell. From June through September the beach is host to the arribazón, when thousands of sea turtles come ashore to spawn—most commonly the Golfinas and the Pacific Green, and occasionally the endangered Laud (leatherback).

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDSCAPE

White Sands, Blue‑Green Water

Playa Escobilla is a long beach of fine white sand whose color sets off the blue and green tones of the sea; the beach’s regular slope and strong swell give it a raw, coastal character.

THE PHENOMENON

Witness the Arribazón

Between June and September the beach plays host to the arribazón: mass landings of nesting sea turtles. The most commonly observed species here are the Golfinas and the Pacific Green; the Laud (leatherback), an endangered species, may also appear.

THE MOMENT

An Eco‑Tour Focused on Conservation

This guided experience centers on seeing turtles in their natural habitat during the seasonal spawning event and learning about the species that reproduce on this stretch of coast.

What the day feels like

What the Visit Feels Like

Over the course of a half‑day outing you move from a meeting point in Bahías de Huatulco to Playa Escobilla to watch the turtles come ashore and, when conditions allow, observe releases and nesting activity in situ. The setting is coastal and elemental—strong swell, long sand, and concentrated wildlife spectacle.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this outing is best suited for.

1
Active FamiliesSuitable for families—this is described as an activity for all ages and lasts about a half day, offering a memorable wildlife experience for children and adults alike.
2
Nature LoversIdeal for travelers focused on wildlife observation and coastal ecosystems, especially those keen to witness seasonal turtle nesting behavior.
3
BeachgoersGood for visitors who appreciate expansive, natural beaches; expect strong swell and a regular beach slope rather than sheltered swimming conditions.
4
Travelers with Limited MobilityMay be challenging for those with limited mobility because the site is a long beach with sand and surf; plan accordingly.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Season

The arribazón is a seasonal event that occurs from June through September; the outing runs approximately 5–6 hours.

What to Bring

Bring comfortable clothes and shoes; carry cash for souvenir purchases.

Logistics

The meeting point is at Blvd Gueleguetza S/N Mza. 10 Lote 4 Plaza el Rosario Loc. 10 Sector L, Bahías de Huatulco, Oaxaca, México 70989.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the outing?

The experience lasts about 5–6 hours.

Where is the meeting point?

Meeting is at Blvd Gueleguetza S/N Mza. 10 Lote 4 Plaza el Rosario Loc. 10 Sector L, Bahías de Huatulco, Oaxaca, México 70989.

When can I see the arribazón?

The arribazón occurs from June through September.

Which turtle species might I see?

The most reproduced species in this area are the Golfinas and the Pacific Green; the Laud (leatherback), an endangered species, can sometimes be encountered.

What should I bring on the tour?

Bring comfortable clothes and shoes, and cash for souvenir purchases.