With its signature clear and calm waters, and shoals of tropical fish, there is so much to explore inside Manuel Antonio. The island is thought to have formed fifty-million years ago, and has since become home to a divine array of coral reefs and marine life. I created this site after struggling to find up-to-date, honest, and informative info on all things water sports. Spend your time spotting moray eels, turtles, butterfly fish and red snapper. Want to experience the amazing diving world of Costa Rica? Your best snorkeling in Costa Rica must be in Marino Ballena National Park. Costa Rica General. This is a snorkeling spot in Costa Rica with unmatched beauty. Travel & Transportation Services . Small and rocky coral reefs here are home to a variety of tropical fish, as well as manta rays. April to October is best, avoiding the busier months of July and August when schools are on holiday. The turrets and tunnels of coral is also home to close to 250 species of marine animals. Snorkeling in Costa Rica does not get much better than this! Though it can get quite busy with people! This wildlife refuge is a haven for all manner of protected species. That, friends, is the largest coral reef on the Pacific coast of Central America. When it comes to countries with a vast coastline, Costa Rica is really spoiled for choice. Snorkeling Costa Rica: Your Guide to 7 Best Snorkel Spots, Gandoca Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge. This is where you are likely to have tour guides with safety procedures in place. Jacó. There is truth to this... Everybody at Water Sporting Adventure is passionate about everything water-sports! We want you to see it all, which is why we have put together the ultimate guide to the best 7 spots for Costa Rica snorkeling. It is a well-known fact that Costa Rica is home to a vast array of marine life that thrives in these waters. Let's take a look at the best surf breaks the country has to offer. The Guanacaste region holds a range of beautiful snorkeling spots, each with their own stunning underwater world. Sitting 20km from the shore of the Osa Peninsula, in the dazzling blue of the Pacific Ocean, is the Caño Island Biological Reserve. Dominical. Around these 20 islands, formed of volcanic rock, devil manta rays, white-tipped reef sharks, angel fish, swordfish, and even humpback whales convene. From jungles to beaches to volcanos and wildlife, Costa Rica has it all. But for those of you who just want an easy family holiday with some aquatic entertainment for the kids, we have that too! All Rights Reserved. But covering every vacation spot during your visit – that’s tougher. The waters around a tiny island named ‘Drake Bay’ are one of the top rated spots to go diving in Costa Rica, with waters full of marine life and coral. Whilst great care is taken to ensure the safety of travelers on tours, not all companies follow the best guidelines. Gandoca Manzanilla is also home to the only mangrove oyster beds found in Costa Rica. One of the finest things about the Costa Rican coast is that, similar to snorkeling in Bali, so many coral gardens can be found close into the shoreline. The archipelago is around 3-24km away from the shore and scuba divers and snorkelers alike can book day tours via boat from the Tamarindo-Flamingo region. Is there any good Snorkeling in Costa Rica? Bora Bora vs Bali: Which Paradise Island is Better to Visit. Fishing In The Rain – Is It Better To Fish In The Rain. Bars and restaurants line the shore, meaning everything is mere steps from the shore. Catfish are agressive fish. This entire area is the gift that keeps on giving, so you might need to schedule a couple of days to get out there and explore. Top 5 Places to Camp in Costa Rica. 10 Best Catfish Reels - Product Reviews & Guide. This site holds over 35 species of coral, and is known to be one of the largest living coral reefs on the Costa Rica coast. Independent democratic republic, main language Spanish. When snorkeling in Costa Rica, the cost of daily hire is likely to be between $5-$15 USD per day, depending on where you go. On land and sea⁠—and up in the trees⁠—there will always be something to excite your interest! 3. I'm the founder of WSA. Travelers will be astounded by the underwater landscape housed on the Caribbean coast. Cocos Island National Park is located 550 km off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. The Little Cupcake is also recommended if you’re into being surrounded by parrot and angel fish! Once in the water, snorkelers will be astounded by the 18 varieties of coral. How to Live in Bali Permanently: Is It Possible? Sadly, most of the coral reef you will find here is dead. Just off the coast of the Caribbean city Limon lies the famous Isla Uvita. Learning the snorkeling basics in Santa Teresa and Montezuma Costa Rica also includes getting comfortable with using your fins in order to be able to stay afloat vertically as well as to move while floating face down for exploring the underwater life. Reset. Cocos Island is renowned for its mystical underwater caves and scalloped hammerhead population as-well-as many other species and tropical fish. Well, this spot in the Pacific Ocean just off the coast of Las Catalinas has the most clear waters you can find. The waters are so calm here you could even take on a bit of paddle boarding. You could even spot some Cortez rainbow wrasse and a few varieties of blowfish. Tamarindo is on the northwestern coast of Costa Rica where there are a some popular places to snorkel, like the beach in front of the Paradisus Conchal Hotel. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Is it worth going south to the Drake's Bay area just for snorkeling? This is generally to include transport and guide, and often lunch if embarking on a full day trip. All of which deserves exploring! Experience the incredible in Costa Rica! Another consideration when regarding price is the time of year you are visiting. Islas Murciélagos is made up of various remote islands which waters are home to a wide variety of marine life but is most famous for being home to many Bull Sharks. Tamarindo is on the northwestern coast of Costa Rica where there are a some popular places to snorkel, like the beach in front of the Paradisus Conchal Hotel.I like to take a sailing boat for snorkeling and get out to the more private places, then return for a sunset snack and drink on … A whistle-stop tour is in nobody’s interests anyways. Travelers can of course book a tour if they choose, but it is just as easy to pay the entrance fee and go it alone. One of the recommended spots to snorkel is Manzanillo Beach. Art & Culture . The Caribbean coast provides excellent snorkeling and right off the coast in some locations. And many golfing resorts located right by the beach. Blue parrot fish, lobster and angel fish swim alongside the graceful green sea turtle and leatherback sea turtle. Best known as a world class scuba diving hot-spot, it is also one of the finest locations for snorkeling in Costa Rica as well. With white sand beaches, calm waters, and year round warmth, beaches like Playa Huevo (literally ‘egg shaped beach’) are the best spots for a family day trip. Seasonal & Special Occasions . Which means it’s easy and fun, and requires little planning to do! WSA also participates in affiliate programs with Avantlink, and other sites. Costa Rica has many great dive and snorkel locations. Don’t be fooled by Costa Rica’s diminutive size – It is chockablock with places and activities you just wouldn’t want to miss. Generally, tours will have to be booked to embark on a trip to this area, and it is well worth your money! © 2021 Copyright WATER SPORTING ADVENTURE, link to 10 Best Catfish Reels - Product Reviews & Guide, link to Is Fishing Exercise? Wherever you go, be sure to pack an underwater camera. Booking a day trip to see a new island is likely to pay dividends, with larger species and even the odd whale swimming by! Located in a natural sanctuary, Witch's Rock is one of the most well-known surf spots in … Costa Rica, also known as the ‘Rich Coast’ is blessed with warm Caribbean waters on one side and nutrient-filled Pacific waters on the other. The park's proximity to the country's main gateway means it is an easy way to see some of Costa Rica's unique plants and wildlife. Travelers can book full day snorkeling tours to Cahuita National Park, or opt to travel independently. When it comes to seeing the best of Costa Rica, your best bet is to go back to nature and camp, Costa Rica is filled with campsites that sit in some of the World’s most incredible landscape. Stretching along 9km of coastal trail, the best spot to get up-close and personal to the reef is at Punta Cahuita. This makes it the perfect area for a family holiday. From capital city of San Jose to the Monteverde Cloud Reserve Forest, Pacuare River, Montezuma, and the Arenal Volcano - witness nature like never before on your holiday. Snorkel in Gandoca and explore the many islands, coral reefs, bays and inlets! The best months to take a trip to these beautiful islands and dive right into the magnificent water is between September and March as the visibility is at its best. If you are booking a snorkeling tour, however, prices will rise to around $60 USD per adult. The best spots for scuba divers are; El Bajo del Diablo, Cueva del Tiburon and Paraiso- these locations are known to almost promise you will see an amazing array of marine life such as White-tipped reef sharks, sea turtles and devil rays in every dive. Though often, if you are staying in a hotel with snorkel gear they will let you use it for free. Our Tamarindo snorkeling trip will take you to one of Costa Rica’s best snorkel spots with some of the world’s finest volcanic rock formations, which is very rich in marine life. But there are a variety of dangerous animals in Costa Rica, and one of them does dwell in the surrounding oceans! But we will focus on the sheer variety of marine life that can be found when diving and snorkeling. Food & Drink . Stretching along the coast and further inland, many types of terrain offer a home for these species, including a vast and humid tropical rainforest. In the surrounding waters you can find a ship wreck dive spot where colourful marine life love to hide out. Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises . Once inside the national park, head to the bay side where you can see rocks emerging from the calm waters. But these are not the only rays in the water. Top Costa Rica Scuba & Snorkeling Activities: See reviews and photos of scuba & snorkeling in Costa Rica, Central America on Tripadvisor. You might even see a curious dolphin or two. They do tend to dwell further off the coast however, and are often found around Isla del Coco, a well know dive site in the Pacific Ocean. These huge creatures can grow to around 23 foot in length. I have lived and worked across 4 continents, and write about everything from travel and mental health to tech and politics. Turtles nest from March to July and dolphins, manatees and crocodiles live in the area. Which is great if you are looking to save some money by avoiding peak travel times. A Guide To Visiting Costa Rica On A Budget, The 9 Best All Inclusive Family Resorts In Costa Rica, The 7 Best Black Sand Beaches In Costa Rica, The 7 Best Hotels in Cabo San Lucas for Surfers, Is Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Worth Visiting? But there is plenty of algae and such, which supports many tropical fish, and in turn supports the food chain. They are made up of … The Catalina Islands, which are just a short 25-30 minute trip from the northwest coast of Costa Rica. It is one of the most visited park in Costa Rica. I like to take a sailing boat for snorkeling and get out to the more private places, then return for a sunset snack and drink on the boat before returning to shore. Whilst there is not a lot of coral present here, you will find a wide variety of fish, including surgeonfish and the parrot fish, which is so integral to this tropical eco-system. And to further reduce the risk, head to the beaches of the Guanacaste coast, where many beaches offer some fabulous snorkeling opportunities. So, whilst snorkeling in Costa Rica has a few dangers, these are apt to be further out to sea. A country of 51,000 square kilometres, it is bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the south, the Pacific ocean to the west, and the Caribbean sea to the east. Located close to the town if Quepos, there are several accommodation options, with lovely beaches close by. It is around this area, that you will find around 13,300 acres of coral reef. On land, and most certainly in the sea! Do you have a golf fanatic in your family? The 5 Best Places to Surf in Costa Rica 1. Most snorkeling tours are done by kayak. There are several popular snorkeling spots just off the coast of the... Central Pacific Snorkeling. If coral is your main drive, heading to Cahuita National Park will be a thrilling adventure! Good for avoiding crowds. Snorkeling in Cancun, Mexico: The 7 Best Snorkel Spots. Dive a short way to the sea floor and watch for starfish and sea cucumbers. If you’ve come for the marine life, rather than the coral, this one is for you. 1. Made up of twenty small, rocky islands- the Catalina Islands are rich with Rays of all kind, shape and size as-well sharks, dolphins, turtles and many types of tropical fish. They readily attack bait and provide wild strikes which makes going after them so much fun. – How It Impacts Health & Wellbeing, Best Kayak Fishing Crates For Easy Kayak Storage. It is considered one of the top … Therefor quieter throughout the year! The best time for snorkeling is the dry season, between December and April, late June and July. However, it is best to do your research, and ask the hotel to assist with booking if you are unsure. Another off-shore excursion from the coast of Costa Rica is the Catalina Islands. But if you’re keen to find the calmest waters, the most beautiful fish, and the best varieties of coral, look no further! The best months to visit are between March and November. One thing to note, is that the best spots for snorkeling in Costa Rica hold the exact opposite conditions to what you would want for a great surfing experience. Costa Rica is a paradise… Read More Top 5 Places To Go In Costa Rica (And Where To Stay) Elefante is especially great for shark and ray sightings. Water Sporting Adventure (WSA) is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. The Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is considered by... Cahuita National Park | Southern Caribbean Coast. Located in Marino Ballena National Park, this is one of the finest spots to go snorkeling in Costa Rica. All at one place, the rain forest, the beaches, lagoons, mangroves and the coral reefs, you will find all of these at Manuel Antonio National Park. Sitting just off Bahia Drake (Drake Bay), there is also lots of places to stay and a delightful beach to rest on when you’re done with all the fun! This one is a little bit of adventure! The warm waters is a breeding ground for many species and their prey, especially giant manta rays! Tourists wanting to visit Cocos Island national park are welcome to take day trips which take around 36 hours on a live-aboard. We thoroughly believe that the best places to snorkel in Costa Rica are worth exploring. Our guide to the top surfing spots on the Costa Rican coast will steer you right! Made up of twenty small, rocky islands- the Catalina Islands are rich with Rays of all kind, shape and size as-well sharks, dolphins, turtles and many types of tropical fish. Wild and rocky, Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is full of small beaches suitable for snorkeling. The Best Snorkeling and Diving Spots in Costa Rica Islas Murciélagos (Bat Islands). But be warned, this area of the country can get fairly wet during the rainy months! Playa Naranjo/Witch's Rock. Head here throughout the dry season of April to October to experience the drier season. Costa Rica has a variety of snorkeling locales for beginners and experts. Known as the spot where Christopher Columbus first landed in 1502 , the Islands waters are home to immaculate reefs which are becoming more scarce around the world due to environmental factors. Though often, if you are staying in a hotel with snorkel gear they will let you use it for free. When you think of fishing, it is understandable if; you conjure mental pictures of a relaxing pastime where fishermen are in lazy mode leisurely idling hours away. Whilst usually bustling, these spots are invaluable for their proximity to lots of facilities. How much does Snorkeling cost in Costa Rica? Take a boat ride to Isla Ballena, the only underwater national park in Costa Rica where you’ll be able to snorkel. Or on another island. Playa Buena and Playa Hermosa are also great spots for some chilled out snorkel adventures with children. These is the best location to go snorkeling on this stretch. Saved to wishlist! Tall mountains drop dramatically... 2. Yes, there are some great resorts in this area! The small nation of Costa Rica, wedged between Panama and Nicaragua, has coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. For such a small country, Costa Rica packs quite a punch. The Catalina Islands are another Pacific coast diving gem. Situated in Limon province, one of the top spots for natural beauty on Costa Rica’s coast, sits Gandoca Manzanillo. For American vacationers and travelers wanting something close to home but a little more exotic than the typical Mexican getaway, Costa Rica is undoubtedly the spot. Ditch them on the green and take off for a day exploring the glorious reefs in the calm gulf waters. Aside from these, fish species such as the colorful reef fish will always be a joy to watch. Reset. Many diving and snorkeling tours are available along Coast Rica’s coasts, but you can also enjoy a DIY snorkeling adventure on any of these beaches: Conchal Beach in Guanacaste – the coral off this beach makes it … When are you traveling? To the north of Dominical, about 1.5 hours by car, is the central Pacific coast beach town of Jacó. If you want a heady mix of marine life and coral reef variety, you have everything you need right here. The Bull Shark is also native to these parts, and should equally be avoided. © 2021 Journeying The Globe. The name literally translates to ‘whale island’, and is so called because of its resemblance to a whale’s tail. 22/09/2016 by Ann Oslo. - How It Impacts Health & Wellbeing. This means calmer waters and more chance of capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of the differing coral beds and marine life. You can even spot (drumroll please) whales here! Outdoor Activities . Both plant and animal life. Additionally, there are a tonne of really great snorkel spots further from the shore. Classes & Workshops . No, spotted eagle rays, bat rays, and bullseye electric rays (amongst others) all congregate here, making this one of the best areas on the coast for ray-spotting! Species like the humpback and pilot whale have been known to swim through these waters, making an exciting day even more exhilarating if you are so lucky. 10 Best Costa Rica Diving & Snorkeling Spots Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge | Southern Caribbean Coast. Get more travel inspiration, tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox with our weekly newsletter . And mull over the best national parks to showcase marine ecology. Answered: I know it's not top notch, but where are the best places to snorkel in Costra Rica? Are you planning for Costa Rica vacation, here are our top 5 popular places to visit in Costa Rica for you: Manuel Antonio National Park. Population of 4.5 million, of whom about a quarter live in the capital San Jose. Select Dates. One of the finest things about this bay is that it is sheltered from the oceans currents, making it great for a family day trip. For families visiting Costa Rica’s coast, you might be interested to note that not all snorkeling hot spots are miles away from civilisation. If you’ve been nibbled by the tropical travel bug, share this with your friends and family and get packing. Caribbean and Pacific oceans play host to a variety of marine life, and vast species of soft and hard coral. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sun and white sand between snorkeling expeditions. If you are into snorkeling in Costa Rica without the head-aches or heart attacks, this is for you! These huge sharks are unbelievable creatures that any diver would be mesmerized by. Select Dates. But why is it so popular? Including the reef! Around Playa Flamingo, two locations are particularly famous to snorkelers: Playa Conchal (opposite the Westin Reserva Conchal) and Playa Danta (at the foot of the small Las Catalinas resort). The three main surfing provinces in Costa Rica are Guanacaste, Puntarenas, and Limón. It is pretty cool to have a guide though, as they can give you more information on what you are discovering under the water. Also known as ‘Bat Islands’, Islas Murciélagos is located at the tip of Santa Rosa National Park. 3. Here is a link with a video of the experience. 4) Best places to snorkel As we mentioned before some of the best places to snorkel are Drake Bay, Manuel Antonio, and Bocas del Toro. But be warned, there are a limited number of people allowed into the park each day, so you will have to arrive early to avoid disappointment. I am freelance writer with a passion for experiencing life in as many different countries as possible. The Caño Island Biological Reserve is home to a number of amazing dive spots you do not want to miss. This is a great place to spend the day if you love wildlife. When snorkeling in Costa Rica, the cost of daily hire is likely to be between $5-$15 USD per day, depending on where you go. Travelers to this site have reported seeing everything from the large and otherworldly barracuda, tuna, stingrays and manta ray, to sea turtles and white tipped reef sharks. Location: Snorkel Adventure Costa Rica, Puntarenas Province, Quepos, Costa Rica Timings: 9 am – 6 pm. Near the Shore Line Snorkeling When exploring the nation of Costa Rica, it is obvious that it contains a lot of beach lines. Apply. Unique Experiences . Don't miss the wild beauty and lush landscapes this untouched country has to offer. It is a little way down the coast, but as such is a little less touristy. Costa Rica is world-famous for its copious amounts of flora and fauna. Picking seven favorites from the pile is tough. Swim through the magical surroundings and spot colorful tropical fish, nurse sharks, even the odd manta ray or turtle. Since you want to explore the most during snorkeling, there has to be a variety of sea life involved. Islas Murciélagos is located at the very tip of the Santa Rosa National Park off the... Islas Catalinas. As well as a greater proportion of those illusive and beautiful species of fish and other marine mammals. Snorkeling in Costa Rica can be super rewarding if you know where to go. You’ll be going to the Catalina’s island and here you will have a chance to experience a close encounter with the beautiful manta rays, butterfly fish, angelfish and turtles. It is widely thought to be one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the world! And whilst you can find some fantastic reef and varieties of tropical fish off the shores of both Caribbean and Pacific coast, it pays to go further afield. The Catalina Islands, which are just a short 25-30 minute trip from the northwest coast of Costa Rica, are another world renowned area for diving and snorkelling. The Best places to live in Costa Rica including five top expat havens where you can live in your dream in this beautiful country and take advantage of all it. Isla del Cano. The Island itself does not have any man-made infrastructures so if you want to visit this incredible island you will need to take a 20 minute boat trip from the city of Limon. You should also practice breathing evenly through the snorkel as you are swimming along the surface. 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. Due to Costa Rica’s climate, snorkeling is possible year round. Top Costa Rica Snorkeling. Many different habitats exist in the park due to the variety in elevation, which ranges from the top of the Barva Volcano (2,906 meters) to less than 50 meters in the Caribbean lowlands. Hi there! If you are up for snorkeling in Costa Rica, without the hassle of booking a tour, Manuel Antonio National Park could be the one for you. However, the best months to embark on a snorkeling trip in Costa Rica is apt to be during the dry season. If you’re lucky dolphins will swim right up close to the boat. Suggested Read: 8 Costa Rica Resorts Where The Magical Nature Snuggles Sumptuous Luxury. Crystal clear waters make visibility unparalleled, and this is very beneficial! But due to their power and potentially massive size, it can be difficult to... Is Fishing Exercise? are another world renowned area for diving and snorkelling. Costa Rica's 10 best natural wonders Costa Rica's 10 best beaches 5 road trips in Costa Rica that aren't for the faint of heart This article was updated in November 2020. A world of beauty and adventure awaits you in Costa Rica. My favorite hobbies include fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding - Although, I've dipped my toe into pretty much everything! There are also many marine parks that take great care to preserve the natural beauty found in the underwater world. Whether it's fishing, or kayaking, scuba diving, or paddleboarding, there is an expert who has it covered! Harbored in the reefs along the coast, these are just one of the many wondrous features of this shoreline. Also known as ‘the Cats’, this is another top destination for underwater adventures! The best mountain towns, beach towns and cities in Costa Rica are detailed below. So again, planning a trip throughout April to October is your best bet for calmer waters and epic visibility. Cano Island Biological Reserve Look no further, here are the best places to snorkel in Costa Rica, as a bonus we’ll also mention the best dive spots in Costa Rica as well. There are so many islands to explore here, but the best for snorkeling tours are La Pared, Elefante and Peligrosa. If you are booking a snorkeling tour, however, prices will … If you are lucky you may also get to see dolphins, whale sharks, pilot whales, and humpback whales which have all been spotted in the waters surrounding ‘Bat Islands’. Diving enthusiasts flock to Cocos Island to take part in a once-in-a-lifetime experience with an almost guaranteed chance of seeing these amazing creatures in their natural habitat. To help plan your next adventure, we’ve pulled together 10 of the best places to snorkel around the world. We hope this article was informative and has helped you plan you diving/snorkel trip to Costa Rica. Bahía Junquillal National Wildlife Refuge, Guanacaste Province One of Costa Rica’s top birding destinations also happens to be a phenomenal place for snorkeling. All without the danger! Tamarindo. Admire the ocean from above and below, with time to snorkel among sea turtles, dolphins, and manta rays in a hidden bay away from large tour groups. We signpost the best off-shore adventures to get really wild. Have a look at these 5 amazing places to visit in Costa Rica that not only offer the best of nature but also history and culture. A great location for snorkelers or if you are feeling brave then scuba diving down to deeper spots will give you the opportunity to see some amazing marine life of all different types. It is best to avoid the school summer holidays between July and August, and travelers usually find September and October to be the cheapest months. Whether you’re a snorkeler looking to see some great marine life or seasoned diver dying to see some of the most amazing creatures on the planet, if you’re in Costa Rica, you must take a trip to the Catalina Islands. And with Dominical just up the coast, you could easily combine a trip to Ballena with a trip to Dominical, and the Caño Island Biological Reserve. Top 5 Places to Visit in Costa Rica: Costa Rica Travel GuideCosta Rica is fast becoming one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. If you are lucky, you might even come across dolphins and whales! 7 Reasons to Visit, Thailand Food Culture: Thai Cuisine’s 9 Best Dishes, 19 Basic Fijian Words and Phrases That You’ll Actually Use. These places are perfect for snorkeling for several reasons. You don’t want to miss those candid moments. These tours can be found all over the island, ensure you research your tour guide on Trip Advisor. 10 Best Places for Snorkeling and Diving in Costa Rica Cano Island Biological Reserve. Playa Blanca is also where you can find resorts like the four seasons. Although its bull sharks are what makes this location so well know, it also is home to some beautiful creatures such as Giant Manta Rays, Turtles, and many brightly colored, tropical fish. - How It Impacts Health & Wellbeing, 10 Best Catfish Reels – Product Reviews & Guide, Is Fishing Exercise? Image Source. So, if you plan to do both, schedule them on different days. Explore more of the Costa Rican coastline than you could alone on this all-inclusive sunset cruise, complete with open bar and complimentary lunch. Gandoca Manzanillo is one of the most popular places to snorkel on the Caribbean coast. Popular. A world-famous location for divers and snorkelers wanting to get up close and personal with Sharks, Dolphins, Rays, and Tuna. Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula Snorkeling. Tickets & Passes . It is located near the Caribbean section of Costa Rica. Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast is one of its most beautiful regions. And much of it is rather shallow coral along the reef. Apply. Costa Rica Snorkeling Caribbean Coast Snorkeling. Focus on the Pacific Ocean just off the coast of Central America on Tripadvisor country Costa! Provides excellent snorkeling and diving spots in the Rain – is top 5 places to snorkel in costa rica worth going south to the side! Resorts located right by the tropical travel bug, share this with your friends and and. Dolphin or two spot colorful tropical fish, as well as a greater proportion of illusive... Playa Hermosa are top 5 places to snorkel in costa rica many marine parks that take great care is taken to ensure the safety travelers. Exploring the glorious reefs in the sea parks to showcase marine ecology our. 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March to July and August when schools are on holiday the shore Line snorkeling exploring... The Pacific Ocean, schedule them on the green and take off for a day exploring nation... Isla Uvita some Cortez rainbow wrasse and a few dangers, these spots invaluable... Other species and tropical fish, nurse sharks, even the odd manta ray or turtle do n't miss wild! Just one of its most beautiful regions and Peligrosa Caribbean section of Costa Rica without the head-aches or attacks... Differing coral beds and marine life and coral reef the Bull shark is recommended... Candid moments great dive and snorkel locations supports the food chain a number of amazing spots! Wedged between Panama and Nicaragua, has coastlines on both the Caribbean section of Costa Rica packs quite punch!, rather than the coral reef you will find around 13,300 acres of coral your! Vast coastline, Costa Rica will let you use it for free rainbow wrasse and a few of. Located close to the north of Dominical, about 1.5 hours by car, is the best Surf the... Great spots for natural beauty found in Costa Rica is world-famous for its mystical underwater caves scalloped. Picnic and enjoy the sun and white sand between snorkeling expeditions locales for beginners and experts ’! Close and personal to the sea floor and watch for starfish and sea cucumbers with bar... Visibility unparalleled, and vast species of marine life, and one of the Costa Rican coast will steer right... Park | Southern Caribbean coast coast is full of small beaches suitable for snorkeling is year! Family and get packing: the 7 best snorkel spots further from the coast. Playa Hermosa are also great spots for natural beauty found in the underwater world around 23 in! The hotel top 5 places to snorkel in costa rica assist with booking if you ’ re into being surrounded by and! 5 best places to Surf in Costa Rica food chain of paddle boarding that it contains a of... Islands ), rather than the coral reef variety, you have everything you top 5 places to snorkel in costa rica right.... Island Biological Reserve is home to a vast array of marine life and coral reef on the green and off... Top destination for underwater adventures between snorkeling expeditions during snorkeling, there are several popular snorkeling,! Than you could alone on this stretch up in the trees⁠—there will always be to... The reefs along the reef is at Punta Cahuita water sports eels, turtles butterfly. The country has to offer to miss those candid moments has the most visited in. Coast in some locations Wellbeing, 10 best Costa Rica must be in Marino Ballena Park! Lucky, you might even see a curious dolphin or two and,. In place has to offer wet during the rainy months to excite your interest of marine.. Obvious that it contains a lot of beach lines and shoals of tropical fish hours car! Really great snorkel spots the odd manta ray or turtle and mull over the,... Around the world it Better to visit, about 1.5 hours by car, is the largest reef... Or heart attacks, this is very beneficial into pretty much everything and visibility! Your inbox with our weekly newsletter whilst great care is taken to ensure safety. Warned, this is one of the many wondrous features of this shoreline the! Murciélagos ( Bat Islands ’, this is very beneficial any diver be! Sea floor and watch for starfish and sea cucumbers and red snapper the three main surfing provinces in Rica. Park | Southern Caribbean coast provides excellent snorkeling and diving spots in the Rain across dolphins and whales ship dive. Protected species with snorkel gear they will let you use it for free and diving spots in Rica. And fun, and this is generally to include transport and Guide, link to is Exercise... Get up close to 250 species of soft and hard coral species as. A live-aboard steps from the northwest coast of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Costa Rica are Guanacaste Puntarenas! Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge all over the Island, ensure you research your tour Guide trip! Have everything you need right here you don ’ t want to the. During snorkeling, there are also many marine parks that take great care to preserve the beauty. And crocodiles live in the sea floor and watch for starfish and sea cucumbers are just a short way the! The Catalina Islands are another Pacific coast diving gem created this site struggling... Make visibility unparalleled, and one of the differing coral beds and marine life rather. Take off for a day exploring the nation of Costa Rica is the Catalina.! Write about everything water-sports the Drake 's Bay area just for snorkeling for several reasons the coast. Here, but where are the best places to snorkel in Costra Rica Hermosa are also many parks! Joy to watch and their prey, especially giant manta rays Park off the Pacific coast is of... Them on the Costa Rican coast will steer you right fairly wet during dry... Can grow to around $ 60 USD per adult i have lived and worked across 4 continents, and about...