First manatees and sea turtles seen in SC waters this year. Where they were spotted

It might seem a bit early to see manatees and sea turtles in South Carolina’s waters, but South Carolina Department of Natural Resources received its first sightings of the beloved creatures this month.

The manatee sightings took place in the northern part of the SC coast, and the sea turtles were seen along the southern part of the state, according to SCDNR Wildlife Biologist Kelly Lambert. SCDNR does not release exact locations of the sightings to further protect the animals, but wanted to alert the public to keep an eye out for them.

Members of the public are encouraged to report their sightings of the animals to help SCDNR and other state partners to study their migratory patterns and changes.

“We would definitely try to solicit those sightings from the public,” Lambert said. “That way they can have a part of the data, part of the science, and help us keep an eye on them.”

Clear photos can help identify tagged animals that may have specific markings on them. SCDNR has accessible reporting forms for both manatees and sea turtles.

Manatees and six sea turtle species are protected under the Endangered Species Act, and it is illegal to touch or interact with them.

Where can manatees be spotted?

Manatees migrate from Florida and as far north as Massachusetts, Lambert said though it’s rare for them to make that full trip.

They are most commonly seen in tidal creeks and estuaries, but can be seen from the shore swimming in the ocean. They can survive in both salt and fresh water sources. Residents and visitors can expect to see them in SC waters from late spring into the fall of each year.

They typically prefer waters of 68 degrees or warmer, which is why this time of year seems a bit early to see them. Lambert said they could be attracted to a warm water outfall, or they could just be early birds.

“You can’t always predict what wildlife will do exactly,” she said.

Last year, SCDNR received 289 manatee sightings, an uptick from recent years, Lambert said.

What about sea turtles?

Sea turtles are more present in the state since they nest along all South Carolina beaches, but they are also frequently seen swimming off the coast.

Sea turtle nesting season begins May 1 and can last through October. Every morning during these months, volunteers search the beaches at sunrise to look for signs of a turtle crawl.

According to SCDNR’s website, loggerhead turtles comprise the majority of nests in the state, but the beaches welcome Kemp’s ridley, leatherback and green sea turtles, too.

It is more common to see a stranded sea turtle than a manatee, Lambert said, with about 100-200 strandings a year.

What to do if you see a stranded marine animal

Lambert said it is never a good idea to help a marine animal back in the water since it was likely stranded for a reason.

SCDNR has a wildlife stranding hotline to report an injured, dead or stuck animal at 1-800-922-5431. A crew of volunteers spread across the coastline is available to assess these situations.

Lambert said there is important data to gather during these instances, and that often gets lost when animals are sent back into the water before being investigated.

It is important not to touch, feed, chase or harass the animals, Lambert said. They spend a lot of energy migrating, mating and nesting, and every bit of energy counts.

“If you get to see one it’s really special,” she said. “Take the time to observe them, take photos if possible, but never approach them.”

This article was updated March 30, 2026, at 11:22 a.m., to clarify the species protected under the Endangered Species Act.

This story was originally published March 28, 2026 at 5:00 AM.