By Alexa Hawkins, Director of Marketing & Communications
On April 25, 2026, Jekyll Island hosted its highly anticipated annual Turtle Crawl, bringing together a passionate community of runners, walkers, and wildlife advocates. This beloved tradition serves as a critical community event, the second largest foot race in Glynn County, combining physical fitness with a profound mission to amplify sea turtle conservation on the Georgia coast. Participants gathered for the annual 5K, 10K, and 1-Mile Fun Run under the historic live oaks of Jekyll Island and crossed the finish line directly outside of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center where their fundraising contributions are witnessed first-hand.
The 2026 event marked an extraordinary milestone, officially becoming the most successful Turtle Crawl fundraiser in its 19-year history. More than 1,500 race participants laced up their running shoes to support the cause. Through registrations, sponsorships, and direct donations, the event raised more than $60,000 for the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on behalf of the Jekyll Island Foundation.
As Georgia’s only sea turtle rehabilitation hospital, funds generated from the race directly support life-saving rehabilitation, research, and education for sick and injured sea turtles. These contributions provide essential resources for veterinary care, specialized medical equipment, and daily dietary needs of the patients. The enduring legacy of this event is clear, as more than 3,000 sea turtle patients have successfully undergone care at the center since the Turtle Crawl first began nearly two decades ago.
Looking ahead, excitement is already building for next year’s milestone celebration and registration is now live for the 2027 Turtle Crawl, taking place May 1, 2027. The popular island race will once again serve as the official kick-off event for Georgia’s sea turtle season, in addition to celebrating what will be the 20th anniversary of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.
Race participants can secure the early bird rate (and guarantee their t-shirt!) by registering online for the 2027 Turtle Crawl. For those who wish to extend their impact beyond race day and support the Center’s mission year-round, donations can be made directly to the Jekyll Island Foundation.
