Puerto Vallarta has one of the most successful sea turtle protection programs in the country.

The species that is most easily found in the region is the Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea), however, it is getting more common to see the Brown Tortoise (Chelonia agassizii), and sometimes the gigantic Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) and the Pacific Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) also visit the beaches of the destination.

The turtle release season runs from July to December, although in January and February the hatching of some nests is still common. The beaches in Puerto Vallarta where you can look for nests are: Garza Blanca, Conchas Chinas-Palmares, Camarones, Playa Los Muertos, Olas Altas, Malecón Centro, Flamingos, Holiday Inn and Playa de Oro.