Early morning and low tide are your best bets for wildlife.

Yes, you will see birds, fish, and turtles — if you time it right.

Seabirds like pelicans, terns, and gulls are almost guaranteed around any island, especially near fishing boats or rocky shorelines. Sea turtles (usually greens or hawksbills) pop up in shallow bays or near reefs, especially around mid-morning when they come up for air. Fish are everywhere, but you’ll spot them best in clear, calm water — think tide pools, mangroves, or sandy flats.

Viewing tips that actually work: go out at low tide, when birds and turtles feed closer to shore. Wear polarized sunglasses to cut the glare and see into the water. Move slow and stay quiet — wildlife spooks easily. Binoculars help for birds, but you don’t need anything fancy. And please keep your distance, especially from nesting turtles.

The best view is always the one you weren’t trying to get.