• © Neil Ever Osborne
  • © Neil Ever Osborne
  • © Neil Ever Osborne

 

Costa Rica Sea Turtles

Considered the birthplace of ecotourism, Costa Rica’s coast is home to dozens of important nesting beaches for four turtle species—leatherback, green, hawksbill, and olive ridley. SEE Turtles works with local organizations to protect critical nesting habitat. This country offers travelers exceptional opportunities to view nesting turtles in areas with pristine rain forests and diverse cultures.

Check out our videos & slideshows.

 

Sea Turtle Species

Leatherback: One of the largest reptiles on earth, these giants can be found on beaches along both coasts.

Green: The North Caribbean is the most important nesting area in the Western Hemisphere, and there is some nesting along the Pacific coast.

Olive Ridley: There are numerous nesting beaches along the Pacific coast, including two beaches home to the famous "arribada", a mass nesting event.

Hawksbill: Mostly found along the Caribbean, their primary home is in the reef in Cahuita National Park.

 

Featured Nesting Beaches




Go SEE Turtles

Undiscovered Caribbean (all ages). Price: $2,625 per person.  Join Wildland Adventures to explore the unique cultural and natural features of Costa Rica.  Dates from March to June.

Costa Rica Family Adventure (12+ years). Price: $1,650 per person. See the country's most beautiful spots.  June 23 - July 3.

Want something long-term?  Volunteer!

Custom tours for your group or family.

Learn about School Field Trips.

Already planning a vacation and want advice on turtle watching?  Contact Us!

 

How Conservation Tourism Helps


Our Costa Rica partners


Read about a Costa Rica SEE Turtles Trip

Costa Rica SEE Turtles Tour - 2008 (593 kb)

 

 

WIN A FREE SEE TURTLES ECOTOUR TO COSTA RICA OR BAJA!

 

Costa Rica Map Cahuita Gandoca Parismina Osa Peninsula

When to SEE Turtles

Leatherbacks: On the Caribbean, they nest from March to July.  On the Pacific, leatherbacks nest from September to March.  There are beaches on both coasts where people can join turtle walks.

Greens: Nest from June to October along the North Caribbean, especially Tortuguero. 

Olive Ridleys: Along the Pacific, they nest throughout the year, though on many beaches the nesting is concentrated from July to November.

Hawksbills: The best time to see hawksbills in Cahuita in the water is September and October, though sitings are rare.

© Neil Osborne

A young hawksbill makes its way to the ocean after its release by local researchers.

© Neil Osborne

A green turtle returns to the Caribbean after nesting.


© Brad Nahill