TCP was established in 1993 as a Sri Lankan non-governmental organization. The vision of the TCP is “Sustainable level for sea turtle populations in Sri Lanka” while its mission is to "conduct research, surveys, education and awareness programmes as well as community based conservation and management programmes to achieve a sustainable level of sea turtle populations in Sri Lanka". In doing so, it works closely with the Department of Wildlife Conservation, Sri Lanka Tourist Board, Coast Conservation Department etc providing valuable information helping them in prudent decision making, policy development and strategic planning.
TCP employs ex turtle egg poachers as turtle nest protectors at the Rekawa and Kosgoda beaches where community based in-situ turtle nest protection and research programmes are run. TCP organizes nocturnal Turtle Watches for tourists providing employment for ex poachers as tourist guides. In addition, TCP engages in improvement of livelihood and infrastructure development programmes to support local communities.