Turtle Crawl International and Sprint Triathlons

It’s time again for one of Jekyll Island’s great traditions, the Turtle Crawl Triathlon and NestFest, which help launch the annual sea turtle nesting season in Georgia’s Golden Isles. The spring event on this beautiful barrier island celebrates athleticism and ecology and is the perfect place for a fun, family “racecation”!

Known as one of the most-scenic triathlons on the East Coast, the Turtle Crawl Triathlon on Jekyll Island is sanctioned by USA Triathlon. Jekyll Island’s magnificent Great Dunes Park is the start-finish area for the three Turtle Crawl races that together accommodate every skill level, from elite, world-class athletes to novices: an International Distance Triathlon, a Sprint Distance Triathlon, and a traditional 10K / 5K Run on Sunday.

These heart-healthy races along Jekyll Island’s picturesque shoreline and forests do more than get your blood pumping; they also aid endangered sea turtle research and rehabilitation, benefiting the island’s renowned Georgia Sea Turtle Center through the Jekyll Island Foundation.

Families with children of all ages are invited to participate in the educational NestFest activities that will take place near the Turtle Crawl finish line and then to join Georgia Sea Turtle Center staff on the beach for the release of a rehabilitated sea turtle.

The NestFest events accompanying the races are free to the public (with the $6 Jekyll Island parking fee). More information about the NestFest activities and Turtle Crawl can be found on the Special Events page of georgiaseaturtlecenter.org.

First have a run, then discover some natural fun!

* Event fees are non-refundable.

Event details and schedule
International Distance Triathlon
1500m swim, 29 mile bike, 10k run
Start at 7am
Sprint Distance Triathlon
600m swim, 14.5 mile bike, 5k run
Start at 7:30am
5K / 10K - Sunday
Start at 8:00am