Answer
Newly emerged sea turtles navigate toward the brightest horizon—naturally the ocean surf. Boardwalk glow, balcony floods, and flashlights on the sand can send hatchlings inland where they dehydrate or are crushed. Use red-filter flashlights only when authorized and close curtains on oceanfront rooms during hatch windows.
Sources: Town of Ocean City · Maryland DNR · Ocean City Beach Patrol
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
