Digging holes in the sand

Question

If you feel the need to dig holes in the sand - please fill them in before you leave the beach for the day. Many people have been injured falling into or driving into these holes. They are also dangerous for the sea turtles that are endangered and use our beaches to nest on this time of year. If a turtle falls into a hole it will not be able to get out. We have many people doing their job to set up beach chairs or volunteers looking for turtle nests....etc. This morning before the sun was up I just barely escaped driving into a hole that was at least 4 feet deep. There were at least 4 holes dug in this area. Please!!!! FILL in your HOLES before leaving the beach. Also please leave nothing behind on the beach when you go in for the day. I see many empty cans, shoes, and toys etc left on the beach and if we get a storm it could all end up in the gulf. LEAVE NO TRACE!!!!

Answer

The reminder you’re sharing is incredibly important, and it’s an issue that comes up every year across the Florida Panhandle—especially during peak sea turtle nesting season. Large holes dug in the sand may seem harmless fun for the moment, but they can create serious hazards for wildlife, beach workers, and other visitors long after the people who dug them have gone home.

Sea turtles, which are protected and in many cases endangered, nest on Panhandle beaches from early spring through late summer. Both nesting females and newly hatched turtles can fall into deep holes and become trapped. A female turtle can exhaust herself trying to climb out, eventually failing to nest. Hatchlings can get stuck and never reach the water. These are small actions that make a huge difference for conservation.

Beyond wildlife, deep sand holes are a real risk for people too. Beach service workers who drive ATVs or utility vehicles before sunrise often can’t see the holes in low light. Visitors walking at night or early morning can fall in and get injured. Several beaches in the Panhandle report accidents every year because of this.

Deep holes are dangerous for sea turtles – Both nesting mothers and hatchlings can get trapped.
They pose risks to beach workers – ATV and service vehicle drivers often work before daylight.
They can injure other beachgoers – Especially families walking in dim light or after storms.

That’s why many Panhandle communities promote strong “Leave No Trace” rules. While enforcement varies by location, the general principle is the same everywhere: whatever you brought or altered on the beach should be restored before you leave. That means filing in holes, removing tent stakes, taking all toys and trash, and ensuring nothing is left behind that could wash into the Gulf.

There are simple steps every visitor can take to help:

Always fill in any hole you dig – Even if you think it’s small. Use your feet or a shovel to pack it flat.
Remove all beach gear each day – Chairs, toys, tents, coolers, shoes, and beach umbrellas.
Avoid nighttime disturbance near dunes – It helps protect nesting areas.

Your message is a great reminder of how shared responsibility keeps Florida’s beaches safe and beautiful. Most visitors simply don’t realize the impact that digging holes or leaving gear behind can have, so spreading awareness helps tremendously.

Thank you for helping promote safe and responsible beach behavior—these small actions truly protect wildlife, prevent injuries, and keep the Panhandle’s beaches enjoyable for everyone.