Best places to snorkel costa rica
When you’re planning your next Costa Rica vacation, it’s easy to focus on the activities that are most familiar to you. But don’t forget about snorkeling!
If you’re looking to really get up close and personal with some of the most beautiful marine life in the world, then snorkeling is an activity worth considering. There are lots of places where you can snorkel in Costa Rica.
Read on to get more information on Best places to snorkel costa rica , Costa Rica snorkeling from shore, Snorkeling in Costa Rica prices, Snorkeling Costa Rica Manuel Antonio, and Snorkeling Papagayo, Costa Rica.
Costa Rica snorkeling from shore
Costa Rica might be small in size but it’s huge in personality! Boasting two very different coastlines, the Pacific and the Caribbean, Costa Rica offers one of the most amazing marine ecosystems in the world. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a roundup of our best snorkelling spots worth checking out including Cahuita, isla Chora, isla Ballena and Isla del Caño.
Snorkelling is a great way to explore Costa Rica’s underwater world and can be done from many places around the country. Whether you’re looking for a calm beach with shallow waters or a snorkel tour on a catamaran, there are plenty of options available to suit all levels of experience.
Caribbean coastline
Cahuita National Park
The Caribbean coast has a very different feel to the Pacific and its laid-back atmosphere and delicious cuisine make for a fun and relaxing experience. It also rains more, so tends to be quieter. We love Cahuita’s National Park for its amazing coral reefs, home to over 400 fish species –including French angelfish, rock beauty and blue parrotfish. It’s also a great destination for surfing and swimming. A great snorkelling spot is just off the beach, so really easy to access.
If you want to explore further away from the coast, we recommend heading up into the mountains where you can find some spectacular waterfalls. One of our favourites is San Rafael Waterfall in Turrialba Volcano National Park – it’s just an hour’s drive from San Jose but feels like a world away!
Pacific coastline
Samara Beach
Samara offers a relaxing environment filled with palm trees and a calm sea that slopes gently from the sand. At night you can hear the hundreds of sounds of the jungle and the roar of the sea.
We recommend staying at Samara village one night and then head off to Isla Chora for some snorkelling. An uninhabited white sand beach, Isla Chora can only be accessed by kayak and it’s perfect for snorkelling. Weather permitting, you’ll be able to spot the multi-coloured tropical fish darting past your mask and breath-taking deep red, blue and pink corals.
Tortuga Beach
Not many tourists venture this far down the Pacific coast, which makes Tortuga the perfect destination to escape the crowds. Take a boat ride to Isla Ballena, the only underwater national park in Costa Rica where you’ll be able to snorkel. If you’re lucky dolphins will swim right up close to the boat. If you’re visiting in August to October, you’ll have the chance to spot humpback whales coming from the North and from December to March you’ll still catch whales coming from the North.
Corcovado National Park
Corcovado is one of the most special places in the country. The isolation of its rainforest makes it a perfect escape if you’re after off the beaten track experiences. Walk along the marked trail through the forest and spot brightly coloured toucans and large blue butterflies.
The best snorkelling spot is located around Isla del Caño (regarded by many as the best snorkelling spot in the country!). The waters are teeming with a wonderful variety of marine life to spot below the surface. Spot parrotfish, surgeon fish, barber fish, eels, snappers, barracudas and manta rays. Further offshore, whales and dolphins can occasionally be seen.
Best places to snorkel costa rica
Costa Rica is a beautiful and diverse country, with so much to see and do. It’s no wonder that it has become a popular tourist destination.
One of the best things to do in Costa Rica is snorkeling. There are many places to go snorkeling in Costa Rica. Here are some of the best places:
Cahuita National Park | Southern Caribbean Coast
Cahuita National Park on the Southern Caribbean Coast has one of the largest living coral reefs (with over 35 species of coral) off the coast of Costa Rica. The coastal park backs up to a 5.6-mile trail along the shoreline. Make the trek about 2.35 miles where you’ll reach Punta Cahuita, one of the best snorkeling spots in the park. It can be rainy on this side of the country. If you have any flexibility, plan a visit in the drier months of September and October, specifically during the colorful reggae-style festival of Carnival.
Caño Island Biological Reserve | Osa Peninsula
The Osa Peninsula is one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica. The clear waters of the Pacific Ocean provide a stunningly unobstructed view of the vast variety of marine life that can be seen below the surface.
There are many locations around the Osa Peninsula at which scuba divers—both novices and seasoned veterans—go beneath the surface to experience an entirely foreign world. The Pacific Ocean’s clear waters offer visibility of anywhere from 30 to 100 ft year-round, ensuring visitors to Costa Rica’s underwater world always get an unobstructed view of the vast variety of marine life they’re swimming with. However, no other place has the amount of unique scuba diving spots that Caño Island Biological Reserve boasts. Be on the lookout for white-tip and bull sharks. Spotted dolphins are always curious and may play in the boats wake. You’ll see more fish than you can handle – visitors often encounter schools numbering in the hundreds. Because of Cano Island’s status as a biological reserve, there are five designated diving locations and only ten divers can be in the water at a time. Below are the five designated diving locations within Caño Island Biological Reserve:
El Bajo del Diablo
Depth: 20 to 80 feet
The premier diving spot surrounding Caño Island, El Bajo del Diablo (or “Devil’s Rock”) lies a little over a mile off the island’s shore where huge rock pinnacles reach from the ocean floor to create an incredible underwater landscape of peaks and valleys. Giant manta rays sporting wingspans of up to 20 feet have been spotted here, as well as the jumping Mobula ray. A number of shark species can be seen here as well, including bull sharks, nurse sharks, and if you’re lucky, the elusive whale shark. More reliably, a host of smaller, tropical fish can be observed around the jutting rocks.
Cueva del Tiburon
Depth: 50 feet
This is a dive accessible to scuba divers of all experience levels and, depending on your luck, can end up being one of the most incredible dives you will ever endeavor. The “Shark Cave” is home to several white tip sharks, and divers can usually see around 6 or 7 of these sleeping from the mouth of the cave. Because of park regulations, divers do not enter the cave. Nevertheless, just watching the dormant sharks lurking within the rock is spectacular to behold. Besides the actual cave, this dive traverses many underwater rock formations and hard coral where you will see many tropical fish—pufferfish, boxfish, goatfish, sea turtles, and even some large rays from time to time. If the sun is hitting the coral just right, divers can also experience beautifully colorful coral reflections that are infinitely memorable.
The Coral Gardens
Depth: 15 to 40 feet
This is definitely the number one spot for enjoying spectacular coral reefs, and the different species that call this habitat their home. This particular dive is a shallow one with a maximum depth of 40 ft. At this depth, scuba divers can swim with the damselfish, the parrotfish, the butterflyfish, the porcupine fish, the goby, and perhaps even an octopus! The range of colors these animals display is absolutely stunning, like an underwater rainbow.
Paraíso
Depth: 65 to 70 feet
Spanish for “Paradise,” this diving location is aptly named—if you were a fish, you’d want to live here too! The volcanic lava formation is home to thousands and thousands of blue and gold snappers. These fish congregate in schools, and swimming through one of these groups is like diving through a living tunnel. There are also large groups of barracuda that circle the schools of horse-eye jacks, waiting for the right time to strike. The drama is real, and you get a front seat to watch it unfold! Don’t miss Paraiso on your next visit to Caño Island.
Marenco Rock
Depth: 50 to 60 feet
This area is covered in swaying black corals, where grunts and snappers swim and lobsters crawl back and forth looking for their next meal. The area is also home to large amounts of plankton, attracting schools of several species of larger fish to feed at Marenco Rock.
Catalina Islands for Diving or Snorkeling | Guanacaste
In the Pacific Ocean beyond Flamingo Bay, Guanacaste, the Catalina Islands draw divers and snorkelers alike. This protruding volcanic rock formation is home to a variety of marine life like sea turtles, octopus, eagle rays, moray eels, eagle rays, seahorses, white tip reef sharks, and more. Half-day diving and snorkeling tours to Catalina Islands are available from the Guanacaste region.
Gulf of Papagayo for Snorkeling | Guanacaste
Culebra Bay (within the Gulf of Papagayo) snorkeling from the Andaz Resort
In the northwest province of Guanacaste, off the Papagayo Peninsula, the Gulf of Papagayo is a wonderful snorkeling destination for its calm and protected inlets and bays. Despite being an up-and-coming resort area, the Papagayo Peninsula retains its natural integrity with its lush tropical landscape and over 400 species of wildlife.
Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge | Southern Caribbean Coast
The Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is considered by many to be the best spot for snorkeling and diving on the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica. The coral reef, little bays, inlets, and islands are the perfect recipe for attracting marine life. Sea turtles (nesting from March to July), manatees, crocodiles, and dolphins are just some of the animals that call Gandoca Manzanillo home.
Gulfo Dulce for Snorkeling | Osa Peninsula
The Gulfo Dulce on the Osa Peninsula has both unique marine and terrestrial ecosystems making it the perfect destination for those who love wildlife on both land and sea. Its also home to a significant population of spinner dolphins, so you might catch an impromptu circus performance during your snorkeling adventure! The spinner dolphins can gather in super-pods and they’re a delight to watch from the boat or from up close below the surface. The reefs off the coast contain more creatures than can be seen in any single outing, so don’t be surprised if you’re soon itching to go back.
Snorkeling in Costa Rica prices
The best part of most snorkeling trips in Costa Rica is that you can arrange them yourself. You don’t need much to enjoy the beautiful nature and tropical fish. All you need is a mask, snorkel and fins.
Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities in Costa Rica because it is so easy. You don’t need to be an expert swimmer or have any special training to enjoy this activity. Just put on your gear and jump in!
You can see some of the most amazing marine life on snorkeling trips along the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. The waters off this coast are warm and clear, making it perfect for exploring underwater life with just a mask, snorkel and fins!
The best time to go snorkeling in Costa Rica is during the dry season between November and April when there are fewer clouds overhead blocking out sunlight than during rainy months between May through October when rainforest covers much of the country’s land mass making it hard to see wildlife unless they come close enough for us humans into their territory like monkeys do at Manuel Antonio Park where they come down from trees onto beachfront property where people like myself sit watching them play games together.
Most of the places I have described are accessible from the mainland and do not require transport by boat. All you have to do is pack the necessary equipment, drinking water and sunscreen and you can go on your first swimming with mask and snorkel in Costa Rica.
However, if you are thinking of visiting such beautiful places as Isla del Cano, then you will have to hire a boat to take you there. The cost of such a trip can vary depending on the time of year, where you depart from and the standard of the trip.
Using our example, I can tell you that a snorkeling trip to Isla del Cano is a great way to spend a day. The trip starts around 7am and lasts until early afternoon. Depending on where you want to depart from, you will have up to two hours on the boat.
The price includes admission to the national park, snorkeling equipment, lunch and drinks and of course the care of a guide. The cost of such a trip starts at $139 per person.
Cost of snorkeling in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of the most beautiful places on earth. The country has a wide range of landscapes, from mangrove forests to rainforests and mountains. It also has some of the best snorkeling in the world, with coral reefs and tropical fish that are far from being seen anywhere else in the world. If you are planning a trip to Costa Rica and want to try out some snorkeling while you’re there, then read on!
The price for snorkeling in Costa Rica will vary depending on where you go. Most tours will cost between $75-$100 per person for a half day tour or $125-$150 for an all-day tour, but prices can range from around $35-$45 up to $250+. You also need to factor in transportation costs if you want to travel by boat as well as any other gear like wetsuits or fins that might be needed (some tours include these things while others don’t).
Snorkeling Papagayo, Costa Rica
The best snorkeling spot in Costa Rica is a small beach called Playa del Coco. This is the perfect place for families to experience the beauty of the ocean. There are many activities to do around this area, including hiking and zip lining.
Snorkeling at Papagayo is one of the most incredible experiences you’ll have in Costa Rica. There are so many wonderful things about snorkeling at this location, and we’ve tried to capture them all here:
-You’ll see colorful fish, crabs, and other sea creatures galore! The water is so clear that you can see for miles—there’s no other experience quite like it.
-The water is warm and inviting; you won’t want to leave once you’re in! But don’t worry—it’s not too hot or cold either way.
-The beach is absolutely stunning. It’s nice and sandy with a beautiful blue sky overhead—what more could you ask for?
Swimming through the calm and clear waters of Costa Rica’s Papagayo Bay is like swimming through a dream. The water is so clear, you can see all of the colorful fish and coral below you, and if you look up, the sky above you is just as bright and vivid.
The best way to experience this amazing place is by snorkeling. It allows you to get close enough to see the details of the fish and coral without disturbing them or hurting yourself on sharp rocks or corals. If you’re not a strong swimmer or are afraid of deep water, don’t worry: there are plenty of shallow areas that are perfect for snorkeling!
There are plenty of spots around Papagayo Bay that offer guided tours and lessons from experienced guides who will make sure everyone has fun while staying safe. If this sounds like something you would enjoy, check out TripAdvisor for reviews from other travelers who have been there before (and maybe even got some great tips!).
Playa Buena is a hidden gem located between Playa Hermosa and Playa Panamá, on the Pacific side of Costa Rica. The rock and coral areas found at both ends of the beach are home to dense sea life, including colorful reef fish, several species of rays, and hawksbill sea turtles. If you are staying in the area, don’t hesitate to pay a visit to this wild, yet untouched bay.
How to get to Playa Buena snorkeling spot?
Playa Buena is located between Playa Hermosa and Playa Panamá, just a few kilometers drive from these two beaches. You’ll find off-road parking (not guarded) before you reach the entrance to the Occidental Papagayo all-inclusive hotel. As ever leave no valuables in your car.
To access the beach, follow “Playa Access” signs approx 750 feet down the paved path to the beach. This spot is Occidental Papagayo all-inclusive hotel’s house reef.
Snorkeling Costa Rica Manuel Antonio
Snorkeling Costa Rica is one of the most popular activities in the area. It’s also an activity that can be done by anyone, regardless of their age or fitness level. There are many snorkel tours available, but if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, then consider renting your own gear and heading out on your own.
There are several great spots to snorkel within Manuel Antonio National Park. The most popular spot is Playa Espadilla Sur, which is located near a large rock formation called La Piedra de la Virgen (The Virgin Stone). This beach is ideal for beginners because it has calm waters and shallow depths that allow you to see plenty of marine life without having to dive deep into the water. In addition, there are small caves along the shore that provide shelter from the sun while you relax on shore.
This beach has been named as a Blue Flag Beach due to its cleanliness and safety standards – making it one of the most pristine beaches in Costa Rica!
How to get to Playa Manuel Antonio?
Manuel Antonio National Park is located close to the city of Quepos, on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, about 170 km from its capital, San Jose. Driving from San Jose to the Park takes about 2.5 hours.
There are several options for a visit: paying the single entrance fee (USD16/CRC1600) or having a guided tour (from USD50pp.). Be careful, as the number of visitors is limited to 600 per weekday and 800 during weekends. You will need to arrive early to ensure you can get in (opening hours: 7h-17h, closed on Mondays).
Manuel Antonio beach is the most accessible and frequented in the Park. Walking there from the entrance will take you about 20 minutes.
Entering the water to snorkel Playa Manuel Antonio
We advise you to walk over to the end of the beach and settle close to the rocks emerging in the bay: this is the best area for snorkeling. Be careful if you leave your belongings on the beach, raccoons here are famous for stealing in bags left unattended.
If you have time, go for a longer walk around this part of Fire Island. You’ll find some charming houses as well as a few restaurants at the end of each path (which can be reached with a ferry).
The best places to snorkel in Costa Rica are the ones that have an abundance of life, a variety of corals and fish, and are easy to access. With these criteria in mind, here are our top picks for the best places to snorkel in Costa Rica:
- Manuel Antonio National Park
- Isla del Coco
- Isla Murcielago
We hope this guide has been helpful in helping you choose the best place to snorkel in Costa Rica.
We encourage you to continue your research and find out more about each location, including the best time of year to go and the type of gear you’ll need. We also recommend checking out our other guides on Costa Rica!