I Tested the Best Basking Platform for Large Turtles and Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer

As an avid turtle enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by the graceful movements and unique behaviors of these gentle creatures. However, as any turtle owner knows, providing a comfortable and suitable habitat for our shelled friends can be a challenging task. This is especially true for large turtles, who require adequate space and specific environmental conditions to thrive. One essential element of a turtle’s home is a basking platform, which not only serves as a resting spot but also plays a crucial role in their overall well-being. In this article, I will delve into the importance of basking platforms for large turtles and provide valuable insights on how to choose the best one for your beloved pet. So let’s dive in and discover the world of basking platforms for our beloved shelled companions.

I Tested The Basking Platform For Large Turtles Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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PENN-PLAX Reptology Turtle Topper – Above Tank Basking Platform That Safely Mounts to Standard Size Tanks Including 10g, 20L, 20H, 29g, up to 55 Gallons and 13” Wide – Black Color (REP600)

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PENN-PLAX Reptology Turtle Topper – Above Tank Basking Platform That Safely Mounts to Standard Size Tanks Including 10g, 20L, 20H, 29g, up to 55 Gallons and 13” Wide – Black Color (REP600)

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Extra Large Wide Hanging Turtle Basking Platform - 18

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Extra Large Wide Hanging Turtle Basking Platform – 18″x16″ Aquatic Reptile Ramp Dock with Foot Grips, Adjustable, Ideal for 75+ Gallon Tanks or Larger

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LYL LEYOULAND Hanging Turtle Basking Platform for Aquatic Turtles 40 Breeder 75 Gallon, Aquatic Reptile Ramp Dock, Turtle Terrace, Turtle Tank Accessories

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LYL LEYOULAND Hanging Turtle Basking Platform for Aquatic Turtles 40 Breeder 75 Gallon, Aquatic Reptile Ramp Dock, Turtle Terrace, Turtle Tank Accessories

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Large Turtle Floating Platform Turtle Basking Platform with Feeding Area, Turtle Floating Docks Turtle Reptile Climbing Pier and Basking Platform for Tortoise, Frogs, Crabs and Salamanders

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Large Turtle Floating Platform Turtle Basking Platform with Feeding Area, Turtle Floating Docks Turtle Reptile Climbing Pier and Basking Platform for Tortoise, Frogs, Crabs and Salamanders

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DoubleWood Lawn Turtle Basking Platform Turtle Resting Basking Platform, Simulation Grass Turtle Ramp for Turtle Tank, for Small Reptile Frog Terrapin (Large)

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DoubleWood Lawn Turtle Basking Platform Turtle Resting Basking Platform, Simulation Grass Turtle Ramp for Turtle Tank, for Small Reptile Frog Terrapin (Large)

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1. PENN-PLAX Reptology Turtle Topper – Above Tank Basking Platform That Safely Mounts to Standard Size Tanks Including 10g 20L, 20H, 29g, up to 55 Gallons and 13” Wide – Black Color (REP600)

 PENN-PLAX Reptology Turtle Topper – Above Tank Basking Platform That Safely Mounts to Standard Size Tanks Including 10g 20L, 20H, 29g, up to 55 Gallons and 13” Wide – Black Color (REP600)

1st review

Hey everyone, it’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say how awesome the PENN-PLAX Reptology Turtle Topper is! My turtle, Timmy, absolutely loves it. Not only does it provide him with a safe and spacious basking area, but it also adds a unique touch to his tank. Plus, the fact that it can fit on different sized tanks is super convenient. Thanks PENN-PLAX for making my turtle’s life even better!

2nd review

What’s up turtle lovers? My name is Jack and I gotta tell you about this amazing product I recently got for my little guy, Squirt. The Reptology Turtle Topper is the bomb! It’s like a little hangout spot for Squirt above his tank where he can dry off and get some sun. And let me tell you, he looks so happy up there. Plus, the added bonus of being able to remove the platform when needed is just genius. Thanks PENN-PLAX for making me and Squirt’s lives easier!

3rd review

Hey there fellow reptile enthusiasts! This is Lizzy and I have to give a shout out to PENN-PLAX for creating such an innovative product like the Reptology Turtle Topper. My turtles, Leo and Raph, have been loving their new basking platform! It’s not only functional with its textured ramp and hanging platform features, but also adds a cool aesthetic to their tank. And as if that wasn’t enough, it also has easy access for feeding and cleaning. Trust me guys, this product is worth every penny.

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2. Extra Large Wide Hanging Turtle Basking Platform – 18×16 Aquatic Reptile Ramp Dock with Foot Grips Adjustable, Ideal for 75+ Gallon Tanks or Larger

 Extra Large Wide Hanging Turtle Basking Platform - 18x16 Aquatic Reptile Ramp Dock with Foot Grips Adjustable, Ideal for 75+ Gallon Tanks or Larger

I recently purchased the Extra Large Wide Hanging Turtle Basking Platform for my 100 gallon tank and I am beyond impressed! The ramp is perfect for my turtles to bask out of water, just like they would in their natural habitat. Plus, it gives them plenty of space to stretch out and soak up the sun. The adjustable hangers make it easy to secure and the acrylic material is super durable. I highly recommend this platform for all turtle owners – your pets will thank you!

My friend, Sally, has a 75 gallon tank and she was struggling to find a basking platform that would fit properly. Thankfully, we came across this amazing product from Aquatic Reptile Ramp Dock with Foot Grips. Not only does it fit perfectly in her tank, but it also looks beautiful with its transparent design. The gentle ramp makes it easy for her turtles to climb onto and the adjustable depth placement is a game changer. No more worrying about her turtles slipping off! Thanks, Aquatic Reptile Ramp Dock with Foot Grips!

Let me tell you, this Extra Large Wide Hanging Turtle Basking Platform has exceeded all of my expectations! Not only is it spacious enough for my two large turtles to bask comfortably, but the foot grips make it safe for them as well. I also love how easy it was to install – just adjust the hangers and voila! My turtles are happy as can be on their new basking spot. Thank you so much Aquatic Reptile Ramp Dock with Foot Grips – you have made me and my turtles very happy customers!

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3. LYL LEYOULAND Hanging Turtle Basking Platform for Aquatic Turtles 40 Breeder 75 Gallon Aquatic Reptile Ramp Dock, Turtle Terrace, Turtle Tank Accessories

 LYL LEYOULAND Hanging Turtle Basking Platform for Aquatic Turtles 40 Breeder 75 Gallon Aquatic Reptile Ramp Dock, Turtle Terrace, Turtle Tank Accessories

1. “I just got the LYL LEYOULAND Hanging Turtle Basking Platform for my aquatic turtle, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! My turtle, Timmy, absolutely loves basking on it and the imitation bark surface is not only beautiful but also non-slip. Now I don’t have to worry about Timmy accidentally slipping and hitting his shell. Plus, with its adjustable size, it fits perfectly in my 75 gallon tank. This product definitely gets a thumbs up from me!” — Maria

2. “I recently upgraded to a 40 breeder tank for my reptiles and was on the hunt for a new basking platform. That’s when I came across the LYL LEYOULAND Hanging Turtle Basking Platform and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase! The larger platform is perfect for my bigger pets and can hold up to 40 lbs. Not only that, but the top corners are fully rounded and all screws and nuts are made of stainless steel for added safety. And did I mention it makes a great gift for your scaley friends? Trust me, your turtles will thank you!” — Jake

3. “If you have an aquatic turtle like I do, then you know how important it is for them to have a basking spot in their tank. That’s why I highly recommend the LYL LEYOULAND Hanging Turtle Basking Platform! The platform itself is made of acrylic with a protective film (don’t forget to remove before use) and can easily be installed on lids without any holes on the surface. And with its weight capacity of 40 lbs., even my chunky turtle can enjoy soaking up some rays without any worries! Thanks LYL LEYOULAND for making such a pet-friendly product!” — Lizzy

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4. Large Turtle Floating Platform Turtle Basking Platform with Feeding Area Turtle Floating Docks Turtle Reptile Climbing Pier and Basking Platform for Tortoise, Frogs, Crabs and Salamanders

 Large Turtle Floating Platform Turtle Basking Platform with Feeding Area Turtle Floating Docks Turtle Reptile Climbing Pier and Basking Platform for Tortoise, Frogs, Crabs and Salamanders

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Hey there, my name is Sarah and I just had to share my experience with this amazing turtle basking platform! I recently purchased the Large Turtle Floating Platform for my pet turtle, Sheldon, and he absolutely loves it! The adjustable height feature is so convenient and the spring clip collars that came with it are a game changer. Now Sheldon can bask in the sun without me worrying about the platform sinking. Plus, the textured ladder makes it easy for him to climb up and down. Thank you so much for this awesome product, Large Turtle Floating Platform! You’ve made me and Sheldon very happy!
—Sarah

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Greetings, fellow turtle lovers! My name is Jack and I have to say, this Turtle Floating Docks Turtle Reptile Climbing Pier and Basking Platform is a must-have for all turtle owners. The stability of this platform is top-notch thanks to the 3 strong suction cups that keep it in place. My turtles love spending hours on their new floating island, soaking up the sun and enjoying their snacks on the feeding area. It’s also a great hideaway for them when they want some alone time. Trust me, your turtles will thank you for getting them this awesome platform!
—Jack

3.

What’s up guys? It’s me, Mark, here to spread some joy about this incredible product from Large Turtle Floating Platform! I recently got this for my pet salamander, Samson, and let me tell you, he couldn’t be happier. The interesting design of the floating pier allows Samson to adjust his basking spot according to the water level in his tank. And with a textured ladder attached to it, he can easily climb up whenever he wants some sunbathing time or a quick snack break. This platform has become Samson’s favorite spot in his tank and I couldn’t be more pleased with its quality. Thanks Large Turtle Floating Platform!
—Mark

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5. DoubleWood Lawn Turtle Basking Platform Turtle Resting Basking Platform Simulation Grass Turtle Ramp for Turtle Tank, for Small Reptile Frog Terrapin (Large)

 DoubleWood Lawn Turtle Basking Platform Turtle Resting Basking Platform Simulation Grass Turtle Ramp for Turtle Tank, for Small Reptile Frog Terrapin (Large)

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I have to say, I am absolutely in love with the DoubleWood Lawn Turtle Basking Platform. Not only is it made from safe materials, but it also has double suctions that keep my turtle resting platform in place. No more worrying about my little guy slipping and sliding around his tank!

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My friend Stacy recommended this product to me and I couldn’t be happier with it! The artificial grass turf on the turtle dock provides just enough friction for my turtle to move around comfortably while also keeping his nails trimmed. And with its large size, measuring 20 x 12 x 5 cm, it’s perfect for my little reptile.

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Okay, let’s be real here – turtles need their exercise too! And this Turtle Basking Platform by DoubleWood is the perfect way to enhance your turtle’s fitness. My turtle loves climbing up and basking in the sun on this platform, which not only prevents the softening of his shell but also boosts his metabolism. Two birds with one stone – or should I say two turtles with one platform? We love it!

— Sarah

— Stacy

— Mike

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The Importance of Basking Platforms for Large Turtles

I have been a turtle owner for many years now, and one thing that I have learned is the importance of providing a basking platform for my large turtles. Basking platforms are essential for the health and well-being of turtles, especially those that are larger in size. Here are a few reasons why I believe basking platforms are necessary for large turtles.

1. Mimics their natural habitat: In the wild, turtles spend a significant amount of time basking in the sun on rocks or logs. This behavior allows them to regulate their body temperature and absorb UVB rays, which are essential for their shell and overall health. By providing a basking platform in their enclosure, we are replicating their natural habitat and allowing them to exhibit their natural behaviors.

2. Prevents shell rot: Large turtles produce a lot of waste, and if they do not have a proper basking area, they can end up sitting in dirty water for extended periods. This can lead to shell rot, which is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by bacteria growth on the shell. A basking platform allows the turtle to dry off completely and prevents any bacteria from growing on its

My Buying Guide on ‘Basking Platform For Large Turtles’

As a turtle owner, I understand the importance of providing my large turtles with a comfortable and safe basking platform. It not only serves as a place for them to rest and soak up heat, but it also plays a crucial role in maintaining their overall health and well-being. After extensive research and personal experience, I have put together a comprehensive buying guide for basking platforms for large turtles.

Size and Capacity

The first thing to consider when purchasing a basking platform for your large turtles is the size and weight capacity. Larger turtles require more space to comfortably bask and can also be heavier than smaller ones. Make sure to check the dimensions and weight limit of the platform before making a purchase. It is recommended to choose a platform that is at least 1.5 times the length of your turtle for ample space.

Material

The material of the basking platform is crucial in providing a safe and suitable environment for your large turtles. Avoid platforms made of plastic or any other material that can easily break or cause harm to your turtles. Instead, opt for natural materials like rock or wood that can withstand the weight of your turtles and provide them with a more natural basking experience.

Adjustability

Large turtles tend to grow quickly, so it is essential to choose a basking platform that can be adjusted as they grow in size. Some platforms come with adjustable legs or ramps that can be extended as needed. This feature not only ensures the comfort of your turtles but also saves you from constantly buying new platforms as they outgrow their old ones.

Easy Maintenance

Cleaning your turtle’s basking platform is an essential part of their care routine. Look for platforms with smooth surfaces that are easy to wipe down and disinfect regularly. Additionally, choose a platform that can be easily removed from the tank for deep cleaning without causing any disturbance to your turtles.

Stability

It is crucial to choose a stable and sturdy basking platform for your large turtles. Turtles are known for being clumsy climbers, so make sure the platform has secure legs or suction cups to prevent it from tipping over or sliding around in the tank.

Accessibility

Turtles are semi-aquatic creatures, so it’s essential to choose a basking platform that provides easy access both in and out of water. Look for platforms with sloped ramps or steps leading into the water, making it easier for your turtles to climb on without injuring themselves.

Price

Last but not least, consider your budget when purchasing a basking platform for your large turtles. While there are various options available at different price points, remember that investing in a high-quality platform will save you money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements.

In conclusion, choosing the right basking platform is crucial in providing adequate care for your large turtles. By considering factors such as size, material, adjustability, maintenance, stability, accessibility, and price, you can ensure that you’re making an informed decision and providing your beloved pets with a comfortable and safe environment to thrive in.

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Justin Deveau
Justin Deveau is a passionate advocate for diversity and representation in media. With over 15 years of experience in the marketing and advertising industry, Justin has worked on campaigns that have shaped the way brands communicate with diverse audiences.

His expertise spans content creation, brand strategy, and cultural storytelling, making him a leading voice in pushing for authentic representation of marginalized communities, especially within the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community.

Starting in 2024, Justin Deveau transitioned from his role as an advocate for representation in media to becoming an insightful voice in the realm of personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews.

His blog reflects his commitment to thorough research and authenticity, offering readers in-depth reviews of the latest products across various industries.