Seeing a sea turtle glide effortlessly through the water is a magical, almost spiritual experience. It’s a moment that stays with you forever. In Tenerife, one of the best places in the world to have this encounter is the tranquil, protected bay of Abades. But how you snorkel with these gentle creatures matters enormously — both for the turtles and for the quality of your experience.
This is your ultimate guide to snorkeling with turtles in Tenerife, focusing on the unique ecosystem of Abades Bay and how to ensure your adventure is respectful, safe, and truly unforgettable.
Why Abades Bay is a Turtle Paradise
Abades isn’t just a beautiful beach — it’s a designated Marine Protected Area. This status has allowed a rich ecosystem to flourish, centered around a vital field of seagrass (sebadal). This seagrass is the primary food source for the resident population of Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas), making sightings incredibly reliable throughout the year.
Unlike other spots where turtle sightings are a matter of pure luck, the turtles of Abades are here for a reason: to feed. They spend their days munching on the seagrass, often in surprisingly shallow water, making it a perfect spot for snorkelers of all levels. Some locals have even started calling Abades the «Turtle Village».
The Golden Rules: How to Snorkel with Turtles Respectfully
Turtles are wild animals and must be treated with the utmost respect. An irresponsible encounter can stress the animal, disrupt its feeding, and damage its habitat. Follow these six golden rules to be a responsible turtle-spotter:
- Keep Your Distance. Never get closer than 3–4 meters. Use your camera’s zoom instead of your fins to get a closer look.
- Do Not Touch. Touching a turtle transfers harmful bacteria and causes the animal immense stress. Admire from afar.
- Approach from the Side. Never swim directly at a turtle or from above. Approach slowly from the side so it can see you and doesn’t feel cornered.
- Don’t Chase. If a turtle swims away, let it go. Chasing exhausts the animal and ruins the experience for everyone.
- Stay off the Seagrass. The seagrass is their food source. Do not stand on it or kick it with your fins. Float calmly on the surface.
- Be Quiet. Avoid splashing and loud noises. A calm demeanor will lead to a much more natural and prolonged encounter.
What Other Marine Life Will You See in Abades?
While turtles are the undisputed stars of the show, Abades is a bustling metropolis of marine life. As you float and wait for a turtle to appear, keep your eyes open for these incredible species:
- Parrotfish
- Ornate Wrasse
- Octopus
- Cuttlefish
- Damselfish
- Trumpetfish
- Common Rays
- Lizardfish
- Flounder
Fascinating Facts About Green Sea Turtles
- The Green Sea Turtle is the only aquatic turtle species that is herbivorous when fully grown, feeding primarily on seagrass and algae.
- They are listed as Endangered by the IUCN and are protected from exploitation in most countries.
- Green turtles are incredibly long-lived and can survive for at least 70 years or more.
- Female green turtles reach maturity at 25 to 35 years and return to nest on the same beach where they were born.
- Their name comes not from their external color, but from the greenish color of their fat, which comes from the algae they eat.
The Best Way to Experience Abades
While you can snorkel in Abades independently, joining a guided tour offers significant advantages that can transform a good experience into an extraordinary one. An experienced guide knows the turtles’ favorite feeding spots and can help you locate them far more efficiently than searching on your own.
More importantly, a guide ensures that all interactions with the turtles are safe and respectful, protecting the very animals you’ve come to see. At Snorkel Tenerife Excursions, our guides have an intimate knowledge of Abades Bay built over 15+ years of daily exploration. We provide all the necessary high-quality equipment and a comprehensive safety briefing, so all you have to do is float, watch, and be amazed.
► Ready for a Magical Turtle Encounter?
Join our guided snorkel tour in Abades Bay and meet our resident green sea turtles. All equipment included, all levels welcome.
[ Book Your Tour from €38 → snorkeltenerifeexcursions.com ]
