Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. On land you’ll see incredible flora and fauna in wet and dry tropical rainforests, majestic mountain ranges, raging rivers and flowing waterfalls. You’ll see sloths, monkeys, tropical birds and thousands of insect and reptile species. And Costa Rica’s biodiversity doesn’t end on land. Off of the 800 miles of coastline you’ll find diverse marine life swimming around enchanting coral reefs. This means that Costa Rica if full of great snorkeling opportunities.
Snorkeling is a can’t miss activity during your Costa Rica vacation. Snorkeling in Costa Rica means swimming among sea turtles, whales, dolphins, manta rays, moray eels, sharks and brightly colored schools of tropical fish. There are over 7000 marine species around Costa Rica. Some of the tropical fish include Butterflyfish, Parrotfish, Puffers, and Barracudas. The clear, blue and calm waters provide the perfect conditions for snorkeling. If you’re traveling with kids, you’re in luck! Snorkeling is a perfect activity for families. Many hotels also offer snorkeling gear or even a snorkeling tour.Most of the snorkeling spots in Costa Rica are also perfect for scuba diving. Divers can find beginner-advanced dives, but remember you must be certified to go scuba diving!
Most snorkeling tours last 3-4 hours and the gear is included. Make sure to grab a fitted mask– one that is comfortable and won’t fog up when in the water. A dry snorkel is always good to have; snorkels can come with either an open top or have a special valve that closes when fully immersed in the water. Also, it’s very important to have fins that fit, if too tight they can leave your feet sore and swollen, and too big they potentially could fall off. You should also come prepared with water, snacks, sunscreen and an underwater camera.
Keep reading to learn more about where to snorkel in Costa Rica!
Caño Island contains a great abundance of marine wildlife offering the perfect location for your next snorkeling adventure. Explore the waters and spot moray eels, tuna, parrotfish, puffers, and many more colorful creatures! Perhaps you will even get to see sea turtles, rays and dolphins! Combine watching aquatic wildlife with a touch of history and dive to the pre-Colombian artifacts offering a glimpse of Costa Rica’s indigenous past.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, and equipment
Recommended Ages: 10+
Tour Duration (approximately): 4 hours
What to bring: Sunscreen, swimsuit, change of clothes, towel
You seek to experience Manuel Antonio from above and below the surface? Then this tour will be your perfect choice! You will navigate your kayak past islands where you can observe uncountable marine birds and their nesting grounds. From Pelicans to flying fish, you will also be able to spot parrotfish, starfish, angelfish and if you are lucky a sea turtle too! After this exciting adventure regain strength with a delicious meal! Previous experience is not required as sea kayaking is much easier than river kayaking.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, drinks, lunch OR dinner
Recommended Ages: 8+ (minimum age to share a kayak with an adult)
Tour Duration (approximately): 4 hours
What to bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, towel, camera
You will observe the many unique marine and terrestrial ecosystems of Cahuita National Park. In a glass fiber boat, plus Capitan and guide, you will be able to appreciate 35 different coral species such as the fire coral, Elkhorn and the Smooth brain coral, 123 different species of tropical fish such as the Queen Angelfish and the Blue Parrotfish, 44 species of crustaceans, 140 shellfish and 128 identified algae. Other species living in the turquoise waters are sea urchins, sea cucumbers, lobsters, sponges, hawksbill turtles and green turtles. After your snorkeling adventure, you will return to Cahuita Point, where you can swim in the peaceful and warm Caribbean Sea or just have a refreshment of tropical fruits.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, equipment, fruits and water
Recommended Ages: 5+
Tour Duration (approximately): 2 – 3 hours
What to bring: Sunscreen, swimsuit, long sleeve shirt to cover your back, camera (ideally water proof), change of clothes, towel, cash for the entrance fee
This tour sets sail in the afternoon and returns as the sun sets across the bay! Spot marine life while sailing to a tranquil bay where the catamaran will anchor and you will have the opportunity to go on a little snorkeling adventure! Observe dolphins, flying fish or sea turtles. Enjoy a delicious lunch and sail back enjoying the sunset with an ice cold drink!
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, snorkel gear, lunch and an open bar
Recommended Ages: All ages
Tour Duration (approximately): 4 hours
What to bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable clothes, swimsuit, towel, camera, hat
Explore the aquatic wonders of Cahuita National Park. The glass fiber boat led by an expert captain and guide will introduce you to 35 different coral species such as the fire coral, Elkhorn and the Smooth brain coral, 123 different species of tropical fish such as the Queen Angelfish and the Blue Parrotfish, 44 species of crustaceans, 140 shellfish and 128 identified algae. Other species living in the turquoise waters are sea urchins, sea cucumbers, lobsters, sponges, hawksbill turtles and green turtles. After your snorkeling adventure, you will return to Cahuita Point, where you can swim in the peaceful and warm Caribbean Sea or just have a refreshment of tropical fruits.
Whats Included: Transportation, guide, equipment, fruits and water
Recommended Ages: 5+
Tour Duration (approximately): 2 – 3 hours
What to bring: Sunscreen, swimsuit, long sleeve shirt to cover your back, camera (ideally water proof), change of clothes, towel, cash for the entrance fee
Follow Us