Turtle Release in Lombok & the Gili Islands

A tiny turtle appears from the sand.
It pauses for just a second… then starts moving.

Straight toward the ocean.
It’s simple. It’s natural.
And somehow – it stays with you.

What Makes This Experience Special

This isn’t a show. It’s not staged.
It’s a real moment in nature – guided carefully by local conservation teams who make sure everything happens the right way.

Here’s what happens behind the scenes:

• Hatchlings are gently looked after right after they hatch
• They are protected during their most fragile first days

The goal is simple:
help them – without getting in the way.

Why We Don’t Rush the Release

In the wild, turtles would reach the sea almost immediately.
But in today’s world, things are a bit different.

To give them a better chance, hatchlings may be:

• Kept safe for a short period of time
• Allowed to gain a little strength
• Released as early as possible, when it’s safest

It’s a careful balance between protection and nature – and timing is everything.

One Important Rule |  Turtles Walk

No matter what:

Every turtle must walk to the ocean on its own.

Why?

Because this short journey helps them:

• Remember where they were born
• Find their way back years later
• Start life the way nature intended

That’s why you’ll never see turtles being placed directly into the water.

A More Personal Moment

At Bagno di Gili, hatchlings are released one by one in a quiet, guided setting.

This creates something rare:

• No crowds
• No rush
• Just one small turtle… and one meaningful moment

It’s calm, personal, and surprisingly emotional.

Do’s and Don’ts of Releasing Baby Sea Turtles

✔ Do

• Watch quietly
• Follow your guide
• Let the turtle lead
• Enjoy the moment

✖ Don’t

• Don’t touch (unless invited by staff)
• Don’t use flash
• Don’t rush or guide them
• Don’t place them in the water

Small actions make a big difference.

Part of a Bigger Story

This tiny moment is just the beginning.

→ Learn more about where it all starts:
Turtle Nesting in Lombok & Gili Islands
https://bagnodigililuxury.com/turtle-nesting-lombok-gili/

→ Discover the turtles you may meet again in the ocean:
Sea Turtle Species in Lombok & Gili
https://bagnodigililuxury.com/sea-turtle-species-lombok-gili/

One day, years from now, that same turtle may return to this very beach.

The Moment You Remember

As the turtle reaches the water and disappears, everything goes quiet.

No applause.
No big moment.

Just the feeling that you’ve witnessed something real.

A Different Kind of Luxury

Here, luxury isn’t loud.

It’s:

Being present

Slowing down

Experiencing something meaningful

Sometimes, the smallest moments stay the longest.

Plan Your Experience

Our concierge team would be delighted to arrange your private baby turtle release experience in Lombok and the Gili Islands—thoughtfully curated, naturally guided, and truly unforgettable.

Ibu Antje

I’m Anja Braeken, Co-Founder and Owner of The Lombok Lodge Hospitality® together with my husband, Ben. With over 15 years of experience in luxury hospitality, I am passionate about creating meaningful and bespoke travel experiences across the breathtaking island of Lombok and the Gili Islands in Indonesia. My passion for Lombok comes from the island’s breathtaking beauty, its rich traditions, and the warmth of its people. It inspires me every day to share this special place with others by creating meaningful and memorable experiences that allow guests to truly feel the spirit of Lombok and the Gili Islands. Follow my daily life in Lombok & Gili - and more things I adore - on Instagram @ibu.antje

Contact Ibu Antje