Sea Turtle Species of Lombok & the Gili Islands, Explained

Lombok, renowned for its pristine beaches and marine biodiversity, is home to a Turtle Sanctuary that serves as a vital habitat for several species of sea turtles. The island shelters two main types of turtles – the Hawksbill and the Leatherback. At our two Turtle Sanctuaries in Lombok, we play an important role in protecting these endangered species by providing a safe space for hatchlings and caring for injured turtles.
By learning about these turtles, you can better understand their importance and help support efforts to preserve Lombok’s beautiful marine environment.

The Leatherback Turtle | Nature’s Gentle Giant

#SIZE –

Leatherback Sea Turtles are the largest of all sea turtle species. Adults may reach up to 7 feet (2.1 meters) in length and weigh as much as 2,000 pounds (900 kilograms).

#SHELL –
Unlike other sea turtles, the Leatherback possesses a leathery, flexible shell covered in a tough, rubbery skin rather than a rigid, bony structure.

#DIET –
These turtles primarily feed on jellyfish. However, they also consume other soft-bodied marine organisms such as salps and tunicates. Their anatomy, including specialized jaws and throats, is perfectly suited for this gelatinous diet.

#THE IMPORTANCE OF CONSERVATION –
Leatherback Sea Turtles are currently classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Threats such as entanglement in fishing gear, ingestion of plastic, habitat destruction, pollution, and the effects of climate change on nesting sites put them at serious risk.

#NESTING PERIOD –
Nesting typically begins as early as December or January. Females instinctively return to the very beaches where they were born to lay their eggs.

#WHY THEIR PROTECTION MATTERS –
These majestic creatures play a vital role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems, particularly by controlling jellyfish populations. As a result, sustained conservation efforts and the protection of their natural habitats are crucial to ensuring their continued survival.

The Hawksbill Sea Turtle | A Jewel of the Ocean

#SIZE –

Compared to the Leatherback, Hawksbill Turtles are more modest in size. Adults typically measure around 1 meter in length and weigh between 45 to 68 kilograms.

#SHELL –
They possess a beautiful, hard shell with overlapping scutes in vibrant shades of brown, orange, and yellow, making them one of the most visually striking marine species.

#DIET –
Hawksbills primarily feed on sponges, but they also consume jellyfish, coral, sea anemones, and algae. Their narrow, pointed beak allows them to reach into coral crevices to find prey.

#A CRITICAL NEED FOR CONSERVATION –
THE IUCN classifies the Hawksbill Sea Turtle as Critically Endangered, indicating an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. Their population faces severe threats, including habitat destruction, climate change, fishing net entanglement, and illegal shell trade.

#NESTING PERIOD –
Turles in Lombok and in particular Hawksbills usually nest every two to three years, with peak nesting seasons occurring from May to October. Like their Leatherback cousins, they return to their birthplace to lay eggs, typically under the cover of night.

#URGENCY OF PROTECTION –
If current threats are not effectively addressed, there is a real danger that these magnificent turtles may disappear from our oceans. Consequently, supporting ongoing conservation efforts becomes not only a responsibility but also a profound privilege.

Turtle Encounters on Lombok & Gili

BAGNO DI GILI SANTUARY

Escape to Bagno Di Gili, meet with our Lombok Turtles and discover a beach experience unlike any other. Here, the allure of sun, sand, and sea is enhanced by the graceful presence of resident sea turtles. This captivating encounter adds a sense of wonder to your tropical retreat. Available for Non-Resident Guest by Bagno Di Gili Day-Pass Experience. Day Pass >

GONDANG SANCTUARY

A visit our Gondang Sanctuary is not just an encounter with these majestic creatures but also a meaningful contribution to Lombok’s marine conservation efforts, blending eco-tourism with a sense of environmental responsibility. Exclusively available for resident guests of The Lombok Lodge Hospitality®

Embrace Nature While in Indonesia

Visitors frequently encounter both Leatherback and Hawksbill Sea Turtles. Moreover, through curated experiences such as educational talks, guided snorkeling tours, and interactive activities led by our expert team, guests gain invaluable insights into marine conservation. As a result, by promoting responsible tourism, we strive to protect these species and ensure the preservation of their natural habitats for generations to come.