Although Costa Rica is not the best spot for snorkeling, there are a few spots where you can hang with the underwater world! Whether you’re on the Pacific or Caribbean coast, you’ll find a few incredible snorkeling spots to explore. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best snorkeling destinations in Costa Rica.
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When is the Best Time to Snorkel in Costa Rica?
The best time to snorkel in Costa Rica generally coincides with the dry season, which varies depending on the coast. The Pacific side’s dry season lasts from December to April, offering calm, and semi-clear waters.
On the Caribbean coast, however, the best time to snorkel is during September and October, when the weather is dry, and the seas are calm.
Keep in mind that visibility is greatly impacted by rain and waves, so your snorkeling experience could vary greatly depending on sweet ol’ Mother Nature.
Snorkeling in Costa Rica Tips
- Bring Your Own Gear: While rental shops are available at most tourist spots, bringing your own snorkel gear ensures a better fit and higher quality equipment.
- Sun Protection: Use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect the reef and marine life.
- Stay Hydrated: With the intense Costa Rican sun, it’s important to bring plenty of water.
- Guided Tours: For the best experience, join a guided snorkeling tour where you’ll be led to prime snorkeling spots safely.
Pacific Coast Snorkeling Spots
The Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is best known for its beautiful beaches, surfing, and the beauty of Manuel Antonio National Park. If you find yourself on this northwestern side of the Costa Rica, here are the best spots to snorkel!
1. Cano Island, Puntarenas Region
- Best Time to Visit: January to April (dry season)
- Entrance Fee: $15 for non-residents
- Location: Off the coast of the Osa Peninsula
Cano Island is a biological reserve known for its pristine waters and stunning underwater life. Located off the Osa Peninsula, this island is home to a rich coral reef ecosystem, making it one of Costa Rica’s premier snorkeling locations.
The clear waters around Cano Island provide perfect visibility to witness sea turtles, stingrays, reef sharks, and a variety of colorful fish species.
Book your Cano Island Snorkeling Tour here!
2. Isla Tortuga, Nicoya Peninsula
- Best Time to Visit: December to April
- Entrance Fee: Free, though tours cost around $50-$100
- Location: Off the coast of Puntarenas, Nicoya Peninsula
Isla Tortuga is renowned for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. It’s one of the most popular snorkeling spots on the Pacific Coast, offering crystal-clear waters where you can spot octopuses, moray eels, angelfish, and even small sharks.
Guided day trips from nearby towns like Montezuma or Jaco often include a boat tour with snorkeling stops.
Book your Isla Tortuga Snorkeling Tour here!
3. Playa Conchal, Guanacaste Region
- Best Time to Visit: December to April
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Location: Playa Conchal, Guanacaste Province
Famous for its shell-strewn shores, Playa Conchal offers fantastic snorkeling opportunities right off the beach. It’s one of the few beaches in Costa Rica where you don’t need a boat to access great snorkeling spots.
The calm waters make it easy to explore the colorful coral reefs and spot pufferfish, parrotfish, and even the occasional sea turtle. You are able to rent snorkel gear on the beach or bring your own.
4. Beach #3 at Manuel Antonio, Central Pacific
- Best Time to Visit: December to April
- Entrance Fee: $16 for non-residents
- Location: Manuel Antonio National Park, Central Pacific
Manuel Antonio is famed for its stunning beaches, and Beach #3 within the national park offers excellent snorkeling opportunities in Costa Rica.
You can expect to see a variety of tropical fish and, if you’re lucky, even dolphins just off the coast. The nearby lush rainforest adds to the magical experience of snorkeling here!
Book your Manuel Antonio Snorkeling Tour Here!
Caribbean Coast Snorkeling Spots
The Caribbean Coast, on the east side of Costa Rica, is best known for the lively city of Puerto Viejo, the beauty of Cahuita National Park, and of course so many breathtaking beaches. Here’s where to break out your snorkel gear while on the Caribbean Coast.
1. Cahuita National Park, Caribbean Coast
- Best Time to Visit: September to October
- Entrance Fee: Donation-based, typically $5
- Location: Near Puerto Viejo on the southern Caribbean coast
Cahuita National Park boasts one of the largest coral reefs in Costa Rica, offering an exceptional snorkeling experience.
The calm waters of the Caribbean provide perfect conditions for viewing an array of marine life, including sea fans, sponges, and schools of colorful tropical fish. It’s also one of the best places in Costa Rica to spot sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Book your Cahuita Snorkeling Tour Here!
2. Punta Uva, Caribbean Coast
- Best Time to Visit: September to October
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Location: South of Puerto Viejo, Limón Province
Punta Uva is a hidden gem on the Caribbean coast, just 5 miles from Puerto Viejo, offering some of the best shore snorkeling in the region.
This serene beach features calm, shallow waters, perfect for beginners. Just a short swim from the shore will take you to vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life like angelfish, butterflyfish, and rays.
Most Popular Snorkeling Tours in Costa Rica
- Cano Island Snorkeling Tour: This popular tour includes a boat ride to the island and guided snorkeling trips around the reef.
- Isla Tortuga Snorkeling Adventure: A full-day tour including boat transport, snorkeling gear, and lunch on the island.
- Cahuita National Park Snorkeling Tour: Led by local guides, this tour takes you to the most vibrant coral reefs in Cahuita National Park.
Snorkeling in Costa Rica Recap
From the vibrant Caribbean reefs to the calm Pacific bays, Costa Rica is a snorkeler’s paradise. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned snorkeler, the diverse marine life and stunning underwater landscapes will make for an unforgettable experience.
Be sure to time your visit to coincide with the dry season, and don’t forget to bring eco-friendly sunscreen to protect Costa Rica’s precious coral reefs!
More Costa Rica Planning Guides
Costa Rica is truly a dream destination with so much to do. In addition to snorkeling, you can check out breathtaking waterfalls, zipline across the cloud forest, and indulge in some delicious local foods. Here are some helpful guides in planning your next Costa Rican getaway!
