Attraction Guide: Pulau Selingan (Turtle Island), Sandakan, Malaysia

Pulau Selingan (Turtle Island) Guide

Witness the Miracle of Life: Turtle Island National Park Guide

Pulau Selingan, also known as Turtle Island, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Part of the Turtle Islands National Park, this island offers a unique opportunity to witness the incredible spectacle of sea turtles nesting and hatching. It's an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the wonders of nature. Turtle Islands National Park was established to protect the endangered green and hawksbill turtles that nest on its shores. Pulau Selingan is one of the three islands within the park open to visitors. The park's conservation efforts play a vital role in ensuring the survival of these magnificent creatures. The island's pristine beaches and clear waters provide an ideal habitat for turtles to lay their eggs, and the park rangers work tirelessly to protect the nests from predators and poachers. The main activity on Pulau Selingan is observing the turtles nesting and hatching. Visitors can witness the female turtles coming ashore at night to lay their eggs, and watch as the park rangers carefully collect the eggs and rebury them in a protected hatchery. Later in the evening, you can witness the release of baby turtles into the sea, a truly heartwarming and inspiring sight. Accommodation is available on the island, and all visits must be arranged through Sabah Parks. There are no specific culinary traditions on the island itself, as it's primarily focused on conservation. Meals are provided as part of the accommodation package.

Transportation

Access to Pulau Selingan is only possible by boat from Sandakan. You must book a tour package through Sabah Parks, which includes boat transportation to and from the island. The boat journey takes approximately 1 hour.