Israel’s Nature and Parks Authority has officially opened the doors of the National Sea Turtle Rescue Center at Nahal Alexander National Park to the general public for the very first time. Built with an investment of approximately NIS 30 million, this cutting-edge facility serves as both an active sea turtle hospital and a state-of-the-art visitor center. The site features an operating room, an X-ray suite, rehabilitation pools, and the world's only breeding nucleus for the critically endangered green sea turtle.
For the first time, visitors can step behind the scenes of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. Guests can follow a sea turtle’s entire journey - from the moment it is rescued to its ultimate release back into the wild - while gaining insight into the critical threats facing marine populations, such as marine debris, entangling fishing gear, and habitat destruction.
The immersive experience includes a short documentary detailing the rescue story of an injured turtle, direct views into the active hospital and breeding nucleus, and a firsthand look at the dedicated work of the professionals and volunteers who work year-round to save turtles, locate nesting sites, and protect them. Beyond direct care and rehabilitation, the center spearheads ongoing research, collaborates with international conservation organizations, and actively works to rebuild sea turtle populations across the Eastern Mediterranean.
Opening this state-of-the-art center to the public marks a major milestone in the Nature and Parks Authority's conservation strategy by pulling back the curtain on operations that were previously hidden from view. By combining hands-on education with direct exposure to ecological challenges, the center seeks to raise public awareness and inspire visitors to recognize how their daily choices impact marine conservation in Israel.
Dr. Yaniv Levy, Director of the National Sea Turtle Rescue Center at the Nature and Parks Authority, shares: "The new center allows us to reveal to the public what has mostly happened behind the scenes until now: The daily rescue, rehabilitation, and research conducted for sea turtles. The connection between visitors, the animals, and the care team fosters a deeper understanding of the challenges facing the marine environment and our shared responsibility to protect it."
Visiting information
Due to high demand, visitors are advised to book weekday visits for a better experience. All entries require advance ticket purchases through the official Nature and Parks Authority website.