Costa Rica is known for its lush rainforests, volcanoes, and wildlife-rich national parks—but hidden among its many natural treasures lies a small island that feels like pure paradise. Isla Tortuga, located in the calm and shimmering waters of the Gulf of Nicoya, is one of the country’s most beloved day-trip destinations. With its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and vibrant marine life, Isla Tortuga offers the perfect combination of relaxation, exploration, and tropical beauty.
Whether you’re seeking adventure on the ocean, a peaceful day by the shore, or a family-friendly island escape, Isla Tortuga is a must-visit destination on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
Where Is Isla Tortuga?
Isla Tortuga is located off the Nicoya Peninsula, accessible from coastal towns such as Puntarenas, Jaco, Montezuma, and Tamarindo. Despite its name, Isla Tortuga (Turtle Island) isn’t known for sea turtles—but rather for its shell-shaped coastline and crystal-clear water that resembles Caribbean-style beaches.
The island is part of a protected biological reserve, ensuring its forests and coral reefs remain healthy and undisturbed.
Why Isla Tortuga Is So Popular
🏖️ Stunning White-Sand Beaches
Most beaches in Costa Rica are volcanic and darker in color, but Isla Tortuga’s sands are uniquely soft, white, and powdery—a rare treat that makes the island feel luxurious and exotic.
🌊 Clear, Calm, Turquoise Water
Thanks to its protected cove, the water around Isla Tortuga is calm and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and underwater activities. The visibility is excellent, making it a favorite spot for marine enthusiasts.
🐠Colorful Marine Life
Snorkeling around Isla Tortuga reveals a world full of tropical fish, coral formations, manta rays, and occasionally dolphins or harmless reef sharks. Because the island is part of a protected area, its underwater ecosystems thrive.
⛰️ Hiking and Nature Trails
The island has gentle walking trails that offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, tropical forests, and nearby islets.
🍹 A True Island Experience
With palm trees swaying overhead, beachside BBQ lunches, music, and crystal-clear waters, the island feels like a remote tropical getaway—without requiring long travel.
What to Do on Isla Tortuga
- Snorkeling
Isla Tortuga is one of the top snorkeling spots in Costa Rica. Professional guides lead you to reef locations where you can encounter:
- Angelfish
- Parrotfish
- Pufferfish
- Rays
- Starfish
- Colorful corals
The waters are warm and calm, making it ideal for beginners and kids.
- Subwinging (Unique to Certain Tour Operators)
This thrilling activity lets you glide underwater while being gently pulled by a boat. It feels like flying beneath the surface and offers a new way to explore marine life.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Explore the coastline at your own pace. The calm waters around Isla Tortuga are perfect for paddling, and the views from the water are breathtaking.
- Hiking to Viewpoints
The short trails around the island lead to scenic viewpoints where you can enjoy panoramic ocean views and lush forest landscapes.
- Relaxing on the Beach
If you prefer a slower pace, simply enjoy the beauty around you. The island’s serene atmosphere makes it perfect for sunbathing, reading, and unwinding.
- Banana Boat Rides
Fun for groups and families, banana boat rides add a splash of excitement to your island adventure.
- Beach Volleyball & Games
Most tours provide equipment for beach activities, adding to the fun and energy of the day.
A Day Trip to Isla Tortuga – What It’s Like
While every tour company has its own itinerary, most Isla Tortuga tours follow a similar flow:
🌅 Morning Departure
You’ll board a boat from a nearby beach or marina. During the scenic ride, you may spot dolphins, sea birds, and dramatic coastal cliffs.
🤿 Snorkeling Stop
Before reaching the island, boats often stop at a reef for a guided snorkeling session.
🏝️ Arrival at Isla Tortuga
You’ll be welcomed by soft sand, clear water, and swaying palm trees.
🥥 Beach Time & Activities
Enjoy swimming, relaxing, hiking, or participating in water sports.
🍽️ Delicious Island Lunch
Most tours include a fresh-cooked meal—typically fish, chicken, salad, local sides, and tropical fruit.
🎶 Afternoon Chill & Fun
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the island’s beauty before heading back to the mainland.
🌅 Return Journey
The ride back offers more stunning views, often accompanied by music and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit Isla Tortuga
Isla Tortuga is beautiful year-round, but the dry season (December–April) offers the clearest skies and calmest waters.
The green season (May–November) provides cooler temperatures, lush scenery, and fewer crowds—just expect occasional light rain.
Tips for Visiting Isla Tortuga
- Bring sunscreen (eco-friendly preferred)
- Wear a swimsuit and light clothing
- Bring a towel and waterproof bag
- Stay hydrated—bring a reusable water bottle
- Water shoes are helpful for rocky areas
- Book in advance during high season
Why Isla Tortuga Should Be on Your Costa Rica Bucket List
Isla Tortuga is not just another beach—it’s a complete island escape. The combination of clear water, pristine sand, marine life, and easy accessibility makes it one of the best day tours in Costa Rica. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, the island offers something magical for everyone.
From snorkeling vibrant reefs to relaxing under tropical palms, every moment on Isla Tortuga feels like a postcard brought to life.
Costa Rica is known for its lush rainforests, volcanoes, and wildlife-rich national parks—but hidden among its many natural treasures lies a small island that feels like pure paradise. Isla Tortuga, located in the calm and shimmering waters of the Gulf of Nicoya, is one of the country’s most beloved day-trip destinations. With its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and vibrant marine life, Isla Tortuga offers the perfect combination of relaxation, exploration, and tropical beauty.
Whether you’re seeking adventure on the ocean, a peaceful day by the shore, or a family-friendly island escape, Isla Tortuga is a must-visit destination on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
Where Is Isla Tortuga?
Isla Tortuga is located off the Nicoya Peninsula, accessible from coastal towns such as Puntarenas, Jaco, Montezuma, and Tamarindo. Despite its name, Isla Tortuga (Turtle Island) isn’t known for sea turtles—but rather for its shell-shaped coastline and crystal-clear water that resembles Caribbean-style beaches.
The island is part of a protected biological reserve, ensuring its forests and coral reefs remain healthy and undisturbed.
Why Isla Tortuga Is So Popular
🏖️ Stunning White-Sand Beaches
Most beaches in Costa Rica are volcanic and darker in color, but Isla Tortuga’s sands are uniquely soft, white, and powdery—a rare treat that makes the island feel luxurious and exotic.
🌊 Clear, Calm, Turquoise Water
Thanks to its protected cove, the water around Isla Tortuga is calm and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and underwater activities. The visibility is excellent, making it a favorite spot for marine enthusiasts.
🐠Colorful Marine Life
Snorkeling around Isla Tortuga reveals a world full of tropical fish, coral formations, manta rays, and occasionally dolphins or harmless reef sharks. Because the island is part of a protected area, its underwater ecosystems thrive.
⛰️ Hiking and Nature Trails
The island has gentle walking trails that offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, tropical forests, and nearby islets.
🍹 A True Island Experience
With palm trees swaying overhead, beachside BBQ lunches, music, and crystal-clear waters, the island feels like a remote tropical getaway—without requiring long travel.
What to Do on Isla Tortuga
- Snorkeling
Isla Tortuga is one of the top snorkeling spots in Costa Rica. Professional guides lead you to reef locations where you can encounter:
- Angelfish
- Parrotfish
- Pufferfish
- Rays
- Starfish
- Colorful corals
The waters are warm and calm, making it ideal for beginners and kids.
- Subwinging (Unique to Certain Tour Operators)
This thrilling activity lets you glide underwater while being gently pulled by a boat. It feels like flying beneath the surface and offers a new way to explore marine life.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Explore the coastline at your own pace. The calm waters around Isla Tortuga are perfect for paddling, and the views from the water are breathtaking.
- Hiking to Viewpoints
The short trails around the island lead to scenic viewpoints where you can enjoy panoramic ocean views and lush forest landscapes.
- Relaxing on the Beach
If you prefer a slower pace, simply enjoy the beauty around you. The island’s serene atmosphere makes it perfect for sunbathing, reading, and unwinding.
- Banana Boat Rides
Fun for groups and families, banana boat rides add a splash of excitement to your island adventure.
- Beach Volleyball & Games
Most tours provide equipment for beach activities, adding to the fun and energy of the day.
A Day Trip to Isla Tortuga – What It’s Like
While every tour company has its own itinerary, most Isla Tortuga tours follow a similar flow:
🌅 Morning Departure
You’ll board a boat from a nearby beach or marina. During the scenic ride, you may spot dolphins, sea birds, and dramatic coastal cliffs.
🤿 Snorkeling Stop
Before reaching the island, boats often stop at a reef for a guided snorkeling session.
🏝️ Arrival at Isla Tortuga
You’ll be welcomed by soft sand, clear water, and swaying palm trees.
🥥 Beach Time & Activities
Enjoy swimming, relaxing, hiking, or participating in water sports.
🍽️ Delicious Island Lunch
Most tours include a fresh-cooked meal—typically fish, chicken, salad, local sides, and tropical fruit.
🎶 Afternoon Chill & Fun
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the island’s beauty before heading back to the mainland.
🌅 Return Journey
The ride back offers more stunning views, often accompanied by music and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit Isla Tortuga
Isla Tortuga is beautiful year-round, but the dry season (December–April) offers the clearest skies and calmest waters.
The green season (May–November) provides cooler temperatures, lush scenery, and fewer crowds—just expect occasional light rain.
Tips for Visiting Isla Tortuga
- Bring sunscreen (eco-friendly preferred)
- Wear a swimsuit and light clothing
- Bring a towel and waterproof bag
- Stay hydrated—bring a reusable water bottle
- Water shoes are helpful for rocky areas
- Book in advance during high season
Why Isla Tortuga Should Be on Your Costa Rica Bucket List
Isla Tortuga is not just another beach—it’s a complete island escape. The combination of clear water, pristine sand, marine life, and easy accessibility makes it one of the best day tours in Costa Rica. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, the island offers something magical for everyone.
From snorkeling vibrant reefs to relaxing under tropical palms, every moment on Isla Tortuga feels like a postcard brought to life.
