What happens and when
Olive ridley turtles nest on Los Cabos beaches from about June or July, and volunteers move the eggs to protected hatcheries. When the hatchlings emerge, they're released at sunset so they can reach the water in the dark. Public releases mostly run from September into mid-December, which puts October and November, our favorite months for a Médano stay, right in the middle of it.
Nature sets the schedule. A nest can hatch a day late or not at all on your evening, and good programs tell you that up front. Keep a backup night free. Our sea turtle release page lists the groups and how to reach them.
Who runs releases
ASUPMATOMA, a Los Cabos non-profit working since 1995, invites the public to releases by reservation from September to December. Cabo Trek sells a small-group release (up to eight people) from September 1 to December 15 with transport from its office near the marina, listed at US$99 per adult and US$69 per child. Several Corridor resorts run programs for their own guests. Up in Todos Santos, Tortugueros Las Playitas works with leatherbacks on a different calendar, with releases into the winter, and it pairs well with a Todos Santos day trip.
Tips for families
Kids love this, and it's calm and short. Visitors don't handle the hatchlings, stay a couple of meters behind them, and use no flash or white light. Bring bug spray and a light layer. Afterward, it's an easy evening: head back toward the marina for dinner at Solomon's Landing or pick something from our Cabo with kids guide.
Getting there from Médano
Most release sites are outside town, on the Pacific side or along the Corridor, so you'll need a ride. Tours with pickup near the marina are the easiest option from Villa 1, which is a short walk away along the beach. If you're driving yourself, leave by mid-afternoon: releases happen right around sunset and the programs won't hold the hatchlings for latecomers. Allow 20 to 40 minutes depending on the beach, and use the time after for an early dinner back in town.