Sámara , Costa Rica

Turtle Tour Near Samara Beach

Active

(53 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour is for all nature lovers. In this tour, you will have the exciting and wonderful opportunity to watch turtle nesting. Accompanied by a bilingual guide, you will walk along the beach in search of the turtles and witness the turtle nesting process at either Camaronal, Corozalito or Ostional Beach.

It starts with the hole that the turtles dig, then lay eggs, cover them then go back to the sea. If you are lucky, you will see eggs crack open and see how baby turtles are born. This is a one-time experience you cannot miss.

Please refrain from using bright lights, bright clothing and loud sounds, since we are in their natural ecosystem, we need to be repecful and aware.

Available options

Turtle Tour Near Samara Beach

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Bottled water

Snacks

Beverages

Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)

Detailed itinerary

September and October are the strongest months for turtle nesting.

The pick up starts at hotels within the Samara-Carrillo Beach area.

You will ride with a driver/guide to either Corozalito Beach or Camaronal Beach towards the South from Samara or if there is an arribada in Ostional Beach, the tour will be changed for no additional cost. Arribadas are when thousands of turtles come to shore to lay eggs. This happens once a month from 3 to 4 days after the last quarter phase of the moon.

Your guide will explain all the safety procedures and will give the corresponding instructions of the tour. The experienced guide will walk you through the beach in search for the turtles. During the tour, the guide will provide information and you can ask for drinks such as water and juices while you look at the surroundings. Enjoy some fruit as a snack on the way back to your hotel.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

40 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Dress code: casual but avoid bright colors

Meeting point

Next to Cocos Mexican Restaurant

Important notes

• Minimum numbers apply (4 people). There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Not recommended for participants with serious medical conditions
• Dress code: casual but avoid light colors

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

About Sámara

Sámara is a charming beach town in Costa Rica known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and excellent surfing conditions. It's a popular destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax in a tropical paradise.

Top Attractions

Playa Sámara

The main beach in Sámara, known for its golden sand, gentle waves, and excellent surfing conditions.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Playa Carrillo

A quieter and more secluded beach, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Beach Half day Free

Playa Samara Wildlife Refuge

A protected area home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, iguanas, and numerous bird species.

Nature 1 to 2 hours Free

Isla Chora

A small island just off the coast of Sámara, accessible by boat, offering excellent snorkeling and wildlife viewing.

Nature Half day Moderate

Nicoya Peninsula

The larger peninsula on which Sámara is located, offering a variety of beaches, hiking trails, and cultural experiences.

Nature Full day or more Varies

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ceviche

Fresh raw fish cured in fresh citrus juices, mixed with finely chopped vegetables, herbs, and spices.

Appetizer Gluten-free, but may contain shellfish.

Gallo Pinto

A traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish made with rice and beans, cooked with onions, peppers, and spices.

Breakfast Vegetarian.

Casado

A typical Costa Rican meal consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat or fish.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Arroz con Pollo

A one-pot dish of rice cooked with chicken, vegetables, and spices.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Surfing Snorkeling Hiking Wildlife watching Zip-lining Beach lounging Sunset watching Spa treatments

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine, ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.

25°C to 32°C 77°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (CRC)

Time Zone

GMT-6

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sámara is generally safe with low crime rates, but standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air

Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport • 100 km (62 miles)

By bus

Nicoya, Liberia

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are affordable and frequent, but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Sámara Playa Sámara Playa Carrillo

Day trips

Nicoya

30 km (19 miles) • Half day

A historic town with colonial architecture, local markets, and a rich cultural heritage.

Ostional Wildlife Refuge

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

A protected area known for its olive ridley sea turtle nesting sites and beautiful beaches.

Las Baulas National Marine Park

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

A national park dedicated to the protection of the leatherback sea turtle and its nesting sites.

Festivals

Fiestas de Sámara • July Carnaval de Sámara • February Independence Day Celebrations • September 15

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
Book accommodations and popular activities in advance, especially during peak season
Rent a car for flexibility and to explore nearby attractions at your own pace
Bring reusable water bottles and avoid single-use plastics to minimize your environmental impact
Try local dishes and support local businesses to get a true taste of Costa Rican culture