If you’ve driven along the shoreline in Rincón, Puerto Rico after dark, you may have noticed something unusual—street lights glowing red instead of the typical bright white. They’re not for Halloween, and no, you’re not imagining things. They’re also not “that” kind of “red light district” – so no worries there!

These mysterious red lights actually have a beautiful and important purpose: protecting sea turtles.

🐢 Why Red Lights?

Rincón is home to several sea turtle nesting beaches, including Steps Beach, Maria’s, Los Almendros, and Indicators. During nesting season—typically from March to November—female sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, and weeks later, hundreds of tiny hatchlings emerge and make their way to the sea.

Turtles navigate using natural light cues like the moon reflecting off the ocean. Bright, white streetlights and beachfront lighting can disorient them, drawing them away from the water and putting them at risk. That’s where red lights come in.

🔴 The Science Behind the Glow

Red and amber-colored lighting has longer wavelengths, which are less visible to turtles. These lights help maintain safe conditions for nesting and hatching turtles without compromising visibility for drivers or pedestrians. It’s a subtle shift that makes a big impact—helping preserve a delicate piece of Rincón’s coastal ecosystem.

🌊 Where You’ll See These Lights

Most of these turtle-safe lights are installed near beaches and coastal roads, especially around:

🐢 Key Turtle Nesting Beaches in Rincón

Steps Beach (Tres Palmas Marine Reserve)
A renowned nesting site for hawksbill, leatherback, and green sea turtles. The area is protected and monitored, especially during nesting season from February to August.
Los Almendros Beach
Identified as critical habitat for endangered hawksbill and leatherback sea turtles. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect this vital nesting area.
Maria’s Beach
While popular among surfers, Maria’s Beach also serves as a nesting ground for sea turtles. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of nesting sites, especially during the nesting season.
Indicators Beach
Known for its surf breaks, Indicators Beach is another location where sea turtles are known to nest. Conservationists have raised concerns about developments that may impact this habitat.

These beaches are equipped with turtle-safe lighting, such as red or amber lights, to minimize disorientation for nesting turtles and hatchlings. If you’re visiting during nesting season, please be cautious: avoid using bright lights, keep a respectful distance from any turtles or nests, and refrain from disturbing marked nesting areas.

So if you’re staying near the water (like at Going Coastal Puerto Rico—just 30 feet from the ocean!), chances are you’ll see them at night.

🧳 What This Means for You as a Guest

You don’t need to do anything special—but if you’re the nature-loving type, it’s a cool thing to know. A few small tips to help keep Rincón turtle-friendly:

Use low lighting near the beach at night
Avoid flashlights or phone lights pointed at the sand during nesting season
Keep a respectful distance if you’re lucky enough to spot a turtle

Even if you’re not an eco-warrior, it’s pretty amazing to think you’re vacationing in a place where ancient sea turtles still return year after year.

🌴 Conservation, Caribbean Style

The red lights are just one example of how the Rincón community blends modern life with respect for nature. From surfing preserves to coral reef protection and wildlife-friendly development, this town’s got a low-key but strong commitment to keeping its coastline wild and wonderful.

So next time you’re walking back from a sunset dinner or beach visit and notice the red glow lighting your way—now you know. It’s not spooky. It’s not a power outage. It’s just Rincón taking care of its oldest visitors.

🌊 Help Keep Rincón Turtle-Friendly

If you’re visiting between March and November, you’re sharing the beach with nesting sea turtles.

🐢 Please avoid bright lights near the sand, don’t disturb marked nests, and let hatchlings make their journey to the ocean undisturbed.

Your stay helps protect one of Puerto Rico’s most incredible natural traditions.

Thank you for being part of it.

Book Your Dream Vacation

Escape to paradise at “Going Coastal” in Rincon, Puerto Rico! Enjoy breathtaking ocean views, modern amenities, and the perfect beachfront location. Relax in our 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo that sleeps 6, just steps from the water. Book your stay today and experience the ultimate Caribbean getaway!

Book Your Stay