Explore San Lucas Ex Prison Island From Puntarenas with Beach Hop
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy 3 activities in 1 tour. Begin with a journey through the Puntarenas mangrove ecosystem, followed by an exploration of the Costa Rica ex- prison island famously known as “the island of lonely men.”
We’ll conclude our adventure on a beautiful local beach with a lunch
preparete with local products and support coastal communities committed to sustainable tourism.
This tour is designed to showcase the diversity of Puntarenas, revealing its natural beauty and a glimpse of its history.
Available options
Explore San Lucas Ex Prison Island From Puntarenas with Beach Hop
What's included
Soda/Pop
Bottled water
Lunch
fruits and snacks
Detailed itinerary
1
Mangrove boat tour
2
We invite you to explore puntarenas protected mangroves and the historic San Lucas Island, an ex-prison island once known as “the island of lonely men.”
This tour is more than sightseeing—it's an ecological experience engage with Costa Rica’s historical memory and beach hooping.
What's not included
National Park entrance fees
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
on puerto azul we have free parking available for all our passengers
About Puntarenas
Puntarenas is a vibrant coastal city in Costa Rica known for its beautiful beaches, rich maritime history, and as a gateway to the Pacific coast. It offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Top Attractions
Puntarenas Beach
A popular beach right in the city, perfect for a quick dip or a relaxing walk along the shore.
Beach
1-2 hours
Free
Caldera Bay
A scenic bay with beautiful views of the coastline and the Gulf of Nicoya. It's a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Puntarenas Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse that offers panoramic views of the city and the coastline. It's a great spot for photography and learning about the maritime history of Puntarenas.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, typically lime or bitter orange juice, and spiced with ají or chili peppers. Often served with tortilla chips or patacones (fried plantains).
Appetizer
Contains seafood and citrus.
Gallo Pinto
A traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans, cooked with onions, bell peppers, and spices. Often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).
Breakfast
Vegetarian, can be vegan if no animal fat is used.
Olla de Carne
A hearty beef and vegetable soup, often made with a variety of vegetables, potatoes, and sometimes plantains. A comforting and filling dish.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains beef, can be made with other meats or vegetables.
Popular Activities
Surfing
Snorkeling
Hiking
Beach lounging
Sunbathing
Picnicking
Visiting historic sites
Exploring local markets
Best Time to Visit
December to April
The dry season offers sunny weather, clear skies, and perfect conditions for beach activities and outdoor adventures. This is the busiest time for tourism.
25°C to 32°C
77°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (especially in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6)
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution.
Puntarenas is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Exercise caution and keep valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious when using public transport, especially at night.
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps.
Getting there
By air
- Juan Santamaría International Airport • 100 km (62 miles) from Puntarenas
By bus
Terminal 7-10
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and reliable, with frequent services. Buses are a great way to explore the area.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Caldera
Day trips
Nicoya Peninsula
30-50 km (19-31 miles) • Half day to full day
The Nicoya Peninsula offers stunning beaches, lush jungles, and a variety of outdoor activities. It's a great spot for a day trip from Puntarenas.
Festivals
Fiestas Patronales de Puntarenas • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Puntarenas Beach early in the morning for a peaceful and relaxing experience.
- Explore the local markets for fresh produce, seafood, and souvenirs.
- Take a boat tour to the Nicoya Peninsula for a day trip or overnight stay.
- Try the local seafood, especially ceviche and fried fish.
- Visit the Puntarenas Lighthouse for panoramic views of the city and coastline.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
