The beloved sea turtle research, rehabilitation, education and conservation facility in Juno Beach already has earned its share of kudos as one of the state's most-visited nonprofit environmental destinations.

Loggerhead Marinelife Center earned even more of them when USA Today tapped the local gem as the third “Best Free Attraction” in the United States.

"To be among the top three winners is a tremendous accomplishment and a great reflection of the amazing experiences Loggerhead Marinelife Center has to offer,” said Andy Dehart, the organization's president and CEO. “Thank you to all of our local and national supporters who made this possible.”

The newspaper's 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards winners were selected following four weeks of online voting by the public. Its panel of travel experts selected the center from among 20 nominees nationwide. For information, call 561-627-8280 or visit marinelife.org.

Baby sea turtles scurry toward the sea after a hatchout at the Juno Beach Pier. Photo provided by Loggerhead Marinelife Center