Turtle Watching

The leatherback Turtle is without a doubt the most important attraction at the Marino Las Baulas National Park, in fact this specie was the main reason for the creation of this protected area, and specially for being in danger of extinction.  There are various nesting sites at this national park, including Langosta beach, Grande beach and Ventanas beach.  The nesting season goes from October 20th through Febuary 15th.

Hawksbills and Loggerheads, less common, nest along the Caribbean during the summer months.  The Olive Ridleys nest in the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge and Playa Grande on the Pacific Coast, comming ashore in large number for several days each month from August to September.

Sea turtles are most frequently seen when the females come ashore to deposit their eggs on the beaches, usually at night.  They may also be seen feeding in coral reefs by snorkelers and divers.  Please, remember: only on of every 5,000 baby turtles will survive to reach adulthood, and Costa Rica is one of a handful of countries that protects turtle nesting sites.

It is vitally important that the turtle successfully lays her eggs.  Noise and bright lights can frighten and cause them to return to the sea.  The use of flashlights or cameras is prohibited around nesting sea turtles.  Seek a qualified guide to accompany you.  Obtain a copy of, and obey, park rules when on the beach with turtles.