Hotel y Restaurante La Tortuga Verde

Disappointing and Heartbreaking Experience at La Tortuga Verde. As someone with a deep respect for sea turtle conservation, I was appalled by the so-called “sanctuary” experience at La Tortuga Verde. The entire event felt like a staged production for tourists, completely disregarding the well-being of the baby turtles and the principles of ethical conservation. First, the owner didn’t even acknowledge the guests or provide any meaningful education about sea turtle conservation. Instead, the experience revolved around a scripted production, complete with five camera operators and bright, invasive lights—which, as I’ve learned, are highly stressful for baby sea turtles. These bright lights disorient the turtles and can negatively impact their survival instincts. Before the staged release, the baby turtles were kept in a tub, exposed to heat and unnecessary stress. Baby turtles are supposed to make their way to the ocean immediately after hatching to imprint on the sand. This crucial step allows them to recognize their birth beach when they return to lay eggs as adults. Unfortunately, these turtles were denied that natural process, leaving them at risk of never finding their way back. Adding to the distress, guests were encouraged to handle the turtles for photos—a completely irresponsible practice. I witnessed multiple people dropping the turtles on the ground, further stressing these vulnerable animals. Even worse, during the release, a girl dropped her turtle into the water, and instead of letting it recover, a staff member picked it up and handed it back to her. This poor turtle had already expended its energy trying to swim and was forced to start all over again. The release itself was done improperly. The turtles were placed directly into the water, which is not how it should be done. They should walk across the sand to the ocean on their own to build the imprint they need to return safely. To make matters worse, the person releasing them walked through the water as a wave approached, disrupting the turtles further. I’ve also read that legitimate sea turtle conservation efforts require proper certification and partnerships with recognized organizations. Based on what I witnessed, I seriously doubt that La Tortuga Verde adheres to any such standards. It is heartbreaking to see this establishment claim to be a sanctuary while engaging in practices that prioritize tourist entertainment over the welfare of the turtles. Conservation is not a show—it’s a responsibility. Sadly, this operation felt more like a “Tiger King” of turtles than a true sanctuary. I strongly urge anyone who cares about sea turtles to avoid supporting this business. Look for organizations that are genuinely committed to conservation and follow proper, ethical protocols. The turtles deserve better.

A super beach complex literally yards away from the Pacific Ocean. There is nothing in this world like laying in a hammock watching the waves roll in with a cold beer in hand - tick, tick, tick. The rooms are large with separate three piece bathrooms that are basic but comfortable & clean. Air-conditioning is available in part of each room. The bar and restaurant deliver freshly prepared meals with a soundtrack fitting of the beach location. Loved it.

Good food, the ceviche and margaritas were tasty. 2 of 3 kids loved the burgers, the little one didn’t like the “pickles” or green stuff in them. They loved the resident pelican and the sand. Decent family atmosphere, lots of games and stuff to do.

Great location and food but my accommodation was dreadful. Hard bed and pillows and my bathroom stank of sewerage. Ants had taken over the bathroom too but I didn’t mind that. Very disappointing. Food was excellent and happy hour helped. Cocktails were yummy. They do a great job hatching turtles and rehabilitating injured birds.

I was part of the Central America Intrepid group that stayed at this resort. It’s basic, rustic, and love the beach vibe. $10 extra for aircon per night & it’s worth it. Disregard some of the bad reviews because we came with an expectation that this is a Central America resort. Yes, there will be some ants, bugs due to the beach. Staff was friendly & restaurant food delicious. Give it some time for the food to arrive as they prepare each dish fresh, the Latin American way. Shower is basic with no shampoo but has soap. Each room has a mini porch with 1-2 hammocks and a day bed. It’s hammock heaven & I love the decor and rustic feel of this place!

La Tortuga Verde The humidity enveloped is as we got off the bus, sweat immediately dripping down our backs. We were tired and ready for respite but the hotel didn’t look that flash from the front. Was this going to be an okay place to stay? Don’t let first impressions deter you. Using the room key, we opened the door to find a pleasant space with a double and single bed. Plus I asked for an air conditioner which cost us an extra $10 USA per night for the two of us. And it was the right decision. There was also a fan in the room, so we’d alternate between the two during the night to just the fan. Coming back from the beach after a swim, hot temperatures - the A/C gave immediate relief. The room is part or a rectangular block that has around 8 rooms. Each has a fly screen enclosed entrance with hammock, two chairs and a daybed. Plus plenty or places to hand wet clothes. A broom is located outside your front door for that little bit of sand removal on your feet. Inside. Apart from the beds and fan, we had a bedside table and lamp and hooks on wall for bags. The bathroom was simple. No hot water but you didn’t need it as it was two tepid anyway. Outside there is a pool with an abundance of deck chairs. Then around 6 undercover areas with hammocks hanging under them. The breakfast area is on the left and the bar is on the right. There’s not much touristy stuff around La Torgu Gaverde but plenty of activities. We went body surfing both in the morning and afternoon. The beach has black sand so you’ll probably bring that to your room as a memento. Opportunity to go fishing, surfing, walking to other resorts, beach games or my favourite, walking to the end of the beach to find some very cool outdoor eateries. See pics. Fresh bottled water available in foyer and near bar. Food prices are reasonable. Staff, so helpful and although English not great, they made the conversation fun with their animated smiles. To finish off our stay a spectacular storm came through. See videos and pics. @latortugaverde1 @intrepidtravel #intrepidtravel #bestofcentralamerica #playaelesterón #elsalvadorhotels #bestthunderstormever