Description
Tortuga Island is the tropical postcard you pictured before you ever reached Costa Rica: powder-white sand, palms leaning over jade-green water and a forest that runs right down to the shore. Set in the Gulf of Nicoya off the southern tip of the peninsula, it is one of the most beloved boat trips on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, and this full-day outing takes you there with every detail handled.
After pickup in Jaco, we head to the pier, where a spacious shaded catamaran awaits with easygoing music and a light breakfast on board. The crossing is a show in itself: uninhabited islets, forest-covered cliffs and, quite often, dolphins riding the bow wake. Along the way we pass an island that is home to spider monkeys, so keep your binoculars handy.
Once ashore, the island is yours. Beach chairs, umbrellas and hammocks wait beneath the trees, along with three included activities: snorkeling over the reefs just off the beach, where parrotfish and sergeant majors dart through the shallows; a laugh-filled banana boat ride; and an eco-hike through the island's forest to a scenic lookout. Want more? Kayaks, paddleboards and jet skis are available for rent.
A buffet lunch is served steps from the sand, with fish, chicken, salads and tropical fruit, accompanied by rum punch, margaritas, soft drinks and water. In the afternoon, the sail back often coincides with the golden light of late day. It is a day of sun, sea and pure vida, perfect for families, couples and friends who simply want to slow down and enjoy the Pacific.
