Pacific Coast Ocean Wildlife Tours (2)

Costa Rica’s Pacific coast is not only home to nesting beaches for endangered sea turtles—it’s also a vibrant marine world filled with life just offshore. From humpback whales breaching the surface to schools of tropical fish gliding through coral reefs, the ocean offers an unforgettable wildlife experience that complements our conservation efforts on land.

See Sea Turtles, Whales , Dolphins in the Wild

Our ocean tours from Jacó, Parrita, and Quepos invite you to explore these waters with local guides who know where to find sea turtles, dolphins, whales, and more—all in their natural habitat. Whether you’re a volunteer, eco-traveler, or family looking for a meaningful adventure, these tours are the perfect way to connect with Costa Rica’s marine life while supporting conservation.

Discover Costa Rica’s Marine Wildlife

Our coastline is part of the Pacific Marine Corridor, one of the richest areas for biodiversity in the Americas. Here’s what you might encounter on one of our ocean tours:

• 🐢 Sea turtles swimming gracefully just offshore—especially olive ridleys and green turtles

• 🐋 Humpback whales (seasonal), famous for their spectacular breaches and songs

• 🐬 Bottlenose and spinner dolphins, often seen racing alongside the boat

• 🐠 Tropical reef fish, rays, and sometimes even sea snakes

• 🐦 Seabirds like frigatebirds, pelicans, and boobies

Every trip is different, but the Pacific always delivers something amazing.

When to See Marine Wildlife

• Sea turtles can often be seen year-round, especially near nesting beaches like Palo Seco and Playa Hermosa.

• Whale watching peaks from July to October (southern humpbacks) and December to March (northern humpbacks).

• Dolphins are frequent residents and can often be seen no matter the season.

Our team keeps track of local sightings so your tour has the best chance of wildlife encounters—without disturbing the animals or their habitats.

Small-Group, Eco-Friendly Boat Tours

Our ocean tours are designed to minimize impact while maximizing the experience. We only partner with licensed, conservation-minded boat operators who follow strict guidelines for approaching marine wildlife.

You'll enjoy:

• Comfortable small boats or catamarans

• Bilingual, knowledgeable guides

• Safety equipment and eco-conscious practices

• Optional snorkeling (in season) to observe fish and reefs up close

• Insight into how marine and coastal ecosystems are connected

Whether you're cruising along the coast of Manuel Antonio, exploring offshore islets near Jacó, or heading out from the mouth of the Parrita River, you’ll experience the raw beauty of the Pacific.

A Natural Extension of Our Conservation Work

At Tortugas Costa Rica, our primary mission is sea turtle protection, but we recognize that ocean health is essential to everything we do. By participating in an ocean tour, you’re helping us:

• Raise awareness about marine conservation

• Fund educational outreach and habitat restoration

• Provide local jobs in sustainable tourism

• Support ocean-friendly policies and practices

Plus, every tour includes a brief introduction to our sea turtle project—and how your experience contributes to protecting marine life long after the boat returns.

Perfect for Volunteers and Visitors

If you're volunteering with us, an ocean tour is the perfect weekend activity to experience the broader marine world you're helping to protect. For visitors passing through the Pacific coast, it’s a must-do that goes beyond the beach and into the living blue heart of Costa Rica.

From watching a turtle surface for air to hearing a whale song echo underwater, these moments stay with you forever—and remind us why protecting our oceans matters.

Book Your Ocean Wildlife Tour Near Jacó, Quepos, or Parrita

Whether you're dreaming of seeing whales breach, dolphins play, or sea turtles glide through the surf, our ocean tours in Costa Rica offer an unforgettable experience. Departing from several coastal locations near our conservation project, these trips combine excitement, education, and purpose.

Join us—and dive into Costa Rica’s wild blue paradise.