See That? Sea Turtles Thrive Off Costa Rica’s Shoreline

Southern Costa Rica is an ideal spot to witness the magic of sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Near the Osa Peninsula, in particular, olive ridley, Pacific green, hawksbill and leatherback turtles are plentiful in the warm, tropical ocean environment.

Any boat trip in our neck of the woods — Cano Island snorkeling or diving, Corcovado hiking adventures, whale watching charters, and inshore and offshore fishing guides — is bound to cross paths with a sea turtle or two. These activities run daily and can be booked directly through YouGetHere Vacation Rentals by emailing [email protected].

Spotting Sea Turtles

Over the years, our staff has heard countless tales of clients coming within close proximity of sea turtles while on a Cano Island snorkel adventure. Approximately 1 ½ hours west of the town of Uvita by boat, Cano Island is the premier snorkel and diving location in the region.

Olive Ridley Sea Turtles

Olive Ridley turtles are the most prominent species here. With an olive green shell, these turtles typically weigh 75 to 100 pounds and are about 2 feet in size. They tend to live long lives, with an average age of about 50 years old. As omnivores, their diets are diverse, consisting of fish, shrimp, jellyfish, crabs, mollusks and even algae. Olive Ridley turtles are also famous for massive nesting events called “arribadas,” where thousands of turtles come ashore to nest.

Leatherback Sea Turtles

March to September is when the leatherbacks nest on the Osa Peninsula’s shorelines. Leatherbacks are the largest sea turtles in the world, reaching up to 6 feet in length with a weight range of 550 to 1,500 pounds. They also produce a whole lot of babies in those big bodies, between 150-200 eggs on average, and are protected by law in Costa Rica.

Hawkbill Sea Turtle

Hawksbill sea turtles are on the opposite end of the spectrum. These are tiny creatures, about 80 centimeters for an adult, and they are difficult to spot. Hawksbills, with their elongated necks and micro bodies, are mostly found on the Caribbean side of the country. Although, they can also be discovered in the Golfo Dulce down south. They mostly feed off sponges and are endangered, but hawkbill turtles are spotted all year long.

Pacific Green Turtles

Last but not least are Pacific green turtles. They are second in size only to leatherbacks, with adults averaging close to 500 pounds and about 4 feet in length. With an herbivore diet and gorgeous, diamond-like markings on their head and wings, green turtles are often considered the most beautiful of all turtles. Their nesting season runs from July to October.  

Of course, sea turtles are only some of hundreds of interesting creatures visitors may encounter during a Costa Rica vacation. The spectrum runs from tiny dart frogs to giant crocodiles, and everything in between. And, yes, that impressive list includes the most lovable Costa Rica locals of them all, two- and three-toed sloths.

If you’ve never visited the southern zone of Costa Rica, we highly encourage you to consider making a stop anywhere from Dominical to Ojochal towns along the coastline. The beaches in this area are spectacular, and the region is loaded with wildlife, waterfalls and epic hiking.

YouGetHere Vacation Rentals

YouGetHere Vacation Rentals manages some spectacular vacation villas here. For example, The Jade House has three swimming pools. Vista Encanto features views unlike anything else in the region; and the architecture at Casa Komorebi will blow your mind. The list doesn’t stop there. Just take a look for yourself: YouGetHere Vacation Rentals

When you’re ready to put eyes on those beautiful sea turtles and all of the other amazing sites of Costa Rica, email us directly at [email protected]. We specialize in setting up dreamy vacations for families and friends from all over the globe. 

Until then, the sea turtles will be chilling in paradise, awaiting your arrival.