Marine · Frequently seen with a guide
Sea turtles
Tortugas marinas
Reviewed by Pura Vida Compass Editorial TeamLast reviewed How we research
Green turtles nest in huge numbers at Tortuguero, olive ridleys arrive in mass arribadas at Ostional near Nosara, and leatherbacks nest on the Pacific at Playa Grande. Nesting is seasonal, weather-dependent and never guaranteed.
Where to look
- Nesting beaches
- Coastal waters
- Reefs
When
Green turtles at Tortuguero roughly July–October; olive ridley arribadas at Ostional occur year-round with peaks in the wet months; leatherbacks on the Pacific roughly October–February.
Watching it ethically
- Only visit nesting beaches with an authorised guide and permit.
- No white light, no flash, no phone screens.
- Never touch turtles, eggs or hatchlings, and never buy turtle products.
These are Pura Vida Compass planning estimates, not live quotes, and not guarantees about weather, availability or wildlife sightings.
Pura Vida Compass Editorial Team compiled this page from official park and operator information plus our own editorial scoring, and last reviewed it in August 2026. Costs and travel times are planning estimates, not live quotes.
Something out of date? Send us a correction — or read our editorial policy.