Is Isla Tortuga Worth Visiting from Santa Teresa?

Yes, if you want a full day on the water

We like Isla Tortuga for travelers who want one day that feels completely different from Santa Teresa. You get a boat trip, snorkeling and beach time in the Gulf of Nicoya.

Where does it leave from, and what does it cost?

If you have your own transport

Meet the boat at the dock in Tambor Bay at 8:00 AM. The tour from Tambor costs US$70 per person, and transport to Tambor is not included.

If you need pickup

The tour with transportation costs US$90 per person. Pickup from your accommodation in Santa Teresa is around 7:30 AM, with the exact time confirmed after booking, and you are taken back afterward. Pickup from Playa Hermosa, Malpaís, Cabuya or the Santa Teresa hills is an extra US$10 per person.

How long does it take?

About seven hours. The boat gets back to the same dock in Tambor between 3:30 and 4:00 PM. Groups are up to 12 people.

What does the day look like?

The boat crosses the Gulf of Nicoya and the guide chooses the snorkeling area according to the day's sea conditions and marine activity. After snorkeling, you continue to Isla Tortuga for lunch and free time on the beach.

What is included?

• Pickup and return when you choose the transport option.

• Bilingual guide.

• Boat trip to Isla Tortuga.

• Snorkeling equipment.

• Lunch, fresh fruit and drinks.

What is lunch like?

Chicken or fish, with a vegetarian option available.

What is the snorkeling like?

The guide takes you to specific spots where you can see many different fish. Visibility is generally better in dry season. Rainy season can still have very good days, but the water can sometimes be less clear.

What can you do on the island?

Most people swim and relax on the beach. If you want something extra, you can normally rent a kayak or do a banana boat ride on the island.

What should you bring?

Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothes and a waterproof phone case or camera.

Is there an afternoon version with bioluminescence?

Yes. We also work with an Isla Tortuga, sunset and bioluminescence option. One version includes transport from Santa Teresa or Malpaís, and another departs from Montezuma with a different local guide. The schedule and price depend on the departure point, so use the current tour page or message us before booking.

From Santa Teresa, see the Isla Tortuga, sunset and bioluminescence tour. We also keep the Montezuma departure as a separate option.

Is there a private option?

Yes. A private boat is US$590 per group from Tambor or US$700 with transport from Santa Teresa, for 1 to 5 people. Each extra guest is US$80, up to 12 people.

What is the cancellation policy?

A deposit is required to confirm the reservation. The amount depends on the activity and is shown when you book. If you cancel at least 24 hours before the activity, you get 100% of your deposit back. If the operator cancels because of weather or sea conditions, the refund is 100%. In high season, book at least 15 days ahead.

Can young children join?

Yes. There is no minimum age for the Isla Tortuga tour. Children stay with their accompanying adult, who supervises them during the boat trip, the beach time and the activities.

Who is it good for?

Families, couples, groups of friends and solo travelers can all enjoy it. If you are alone, joining a group is completely normal. For more family ideas, see our Santa Teresa with kids guide.

Would we do it on a three day trip?

Yes if a boat day and snorkeling are high on your list. If your priority is surfing, restaurants and Santa Teresa itself, we would keep that day local.

Why it is on our site

We have done this trip ourselves, and we only list tours after trying them and checking the service.

See how we fit it into a short trip in our three, five or seven day itinerary.

Frequently asked questions

What activities are included in an Isla Tortuga tour?

The standard experience combines the Gulf of Nicoya boat trip, guided snorkeling, lunch and free time on Isla Tortuga. Kayak rental and banana boat rides on the island are optional extras.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes. Mask, snorkel and fins are included, and a life jacket is available. The guide chooses the snorkeling point according to conditions on the day.

What should I bring?

Bring a swimsuit, towel, hat, sunglasses, reef-conscious sunscreen, comfortable footwear and a waterproof case if you want to take your phone near the water.

When is the best time to visit Isla Tortuga?

December through April usually has more stable weather and often better snorkeling visibility. The tour also operates in green season when sea conditions are suitable.

What wildlife can I see?

Possible sightings include dolphins, rays, sea turtles, tropical fish, pelicans and frigatebirds. Humpback whales can also appear during migration season. Wildlife is never guaranteed.