When can you see sea turtles in Costa Rica?


When can you see sea turtles in Costa Rica? A visit to Costa Rica between March and November coincides with turtle nesting and hatching season. Known as the 'arribada' (arrival), thousands of sea turtles emerge from the ocean under the light of a full moon, and lay eggs on Costa Rica's beaches.


What are the best and worst months to go to Costa Rica?

The best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and April, when the weather is at its driest and brightest. We'd also recommend traveling in the country's green season, from May to June or in November. This is when you catch the seasons in transition, and the national parks are quieter.


Where and when can you see sea turtles in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica Sea Turtle Nesting Habits
  • Santa Rosa National Park and Playa Nancite: Year round, but the best months are May through October.
  • Ostional Wildlife Refuge: Year round, but the best months are May through October.
  • Camaronal Wildlife Refuge: April through November.


What beach has the most sea turtles?

The largest green turtle nesting population is found at Tortuguero, on the coast of Costa Rica where about 22,500 green turtle females nest annually. Raine Island, on Australia's Great Barrier Reef, has the second largest nesting population of about 18,000 females per season.


Where is the best place to see sea turtles in Costa Rica?

Whilst turtle hatching takes place along much of Costa Rica's coast, for reliable sightings we particularly recommend the protected reserves of Tortuguero on the northern Caribbean coast, and Ostional beach, near Nosara on the Pacific Coasts Nicoya Peninsula.


When can you see turtles in Tamarindo?

Turtles can be seen year around, but October to April is the peak season for turtle nesting. You will be dropped off at your hotel at the end of the tour. Click Here to See All Tamarindo Area Tours!


What time are sea turtles most active?

Is it usual (or how rare is it) to see turtles or hatchlings on the beach? Both are usually active at night and most of our volunteers have yet to see a turtle lay a nest or a nest to boil (hatch). So consider yourself very lucky if you happen to encounter sea turtles.


What are the nicest months in Costa Rica?

The best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and April, when the weather is at its driest and brightest. We'd also recommend traveling in the country's green season, from May to June or in November. This is when you catch the seasons in transition, and the national parks are quieter.


Is it safe to Swim with sea turtles?

Do not enter the water too close to a sea turtle. Maintain a distance of at least 10 metres. Approach slowly and keep your distance. Back off if they start to show signs of distress like swimming away quickly, and do not chase them.