Top Central Pacific On the Water

Discover Nicoya Peninsula bioluminescence on an after-dark kayak tour in Paquera Bay, where you’ll see glowing algae in the water all around you. Exploring by kayak means you can enjoy the natural phenomenon without the distracting noise of a motor, and you’ll spark bursts of sparkling light each time you dip your paddle into water where bioluminescent algae are present.

Sail along the coastline of Manuel Antonio National Park on this tour from Quepos. Onboard a catamaran, cruise to snorkeling and swimming spots in Bahia Biezans for the chance to spot marine life in their native environment. Lunch is included with fresh fruit, cocktails, fruit drinks, and Costa Rican coffee.

Explore the Tarcoles River, home to one of the world’s largest crocodile populations, on this guided boat tour. Along the way, learn about the area’s biodiversity and spot crocodiles, reptiles, and other local wildlife, including more than 50 bird species. Plus, enjoy some Costa Rican coffee and other refreshments on board. Private tour options are available.

Get a new perspective on the Costa Rican coastline from the back of an all-inclusive catamaran, visit islands you might otherwise have overlooked, and enjoy time to snorkel during this half-day excursion. Soak up the sights as you make the most of free alcoholic beverages, snacks, and fresh fruit, relax on the tanning meshes, or take a dip in the Jacuzzi.

Experience the thrill of navigating class III and IV white waters on this incredible 2.5-hour tour of Tenorio River. Get an up close look at local wildlife as you paddle your way through raging rapids. Ideal for first-timers and experienced travelers alike. This popular tour is sure to be an adrenaline rush!

Nature-loving travelers will enjoy this full-day, small-group snorkeling tour to Isla Tortuga. After a boat ride to the island and views of some dramatic rock formations, you’ll stop to snorkel in the clear waters around a volcanic reef. Look out for tropical fish including angelfish, moray eels, needlefish, and spotted eagle rays. Finish with some relaxing time on the white-sand beaches of the island and a refreshing fruit snack.

Whether you're looking to relax or enjoy something more active, this full-day catamaran excursion to Tortuga Island from Jacó will accomplish your goals. The island has some of the most pristine beaches in Costa Rica, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Make use of the hot tub on board and take a fun banana boat ride if you wish. It is an ideal fun day for couples and groups of friends.

Learn to surf in Costa Rica with a small-group lesson near Manuel Antonio. Whether it's your first time on a board or you want to improve your skills, a low student-to-instructor ratio allows plenty of personalized attention so you’ll be confidently paddling and standing up in no time. When you need a rest from the waves, relax with provided beach chairs and umbrellas while snacking on fresh fruit and coconut water.

Learn surfing from the pros at Surfer Factory Surf School in Jaco. Whether you are new to surfing or experienced getting out on the waves, your instructors will be on hand to make your surfing experience both safe and enjoyable. Both morning and afternoon lessons are available to suit your schedule.

More than just a fun white-water rafting trip, this tour on the Savegre River includes a fully-narrated drive to the put-in location for an opportunity to learn about local wildlife. Plus, in the middle of running Class II and III rapids with a guide, you stop to visit tucked-away waterfall—chances are you'll be the only people there.

Turn your vacation vibes up a notch with this catamaran tour from Jaco to the secluded Fantasia Beach. Relax in a premium catamaran as you sail out on the ocean, and then catch sight of wildlife like turtles and monkeys while eating a lunch prepared by a private chef on a forested beach only accessible by boat. This tour even includes a bar for the ultimate in relaxation.

The golden sands and consistent waves of Espadilla Norte Beach make it a popular destination for surfers in the Manuel Antonio National Park. With this tour, hone your surf skills or learn to catch your first wave with a surf lesson to suit your level. Learn beginner basics and pro tips from your surf instructors, then hit the waves to practice for as long as you like.

If you’ve always wanted to learn to surf, Jaco is a great place to finally do it. During the two-hour lesson you’ll learn to paddle, stand up, drop into waves, and ride. By the end of the lesson you should be ready to stand and ride your first wave. Receive personalized attention in a small-group lesson that will be tailored to your experience level.

Discover the incredible birds and biodiversity of Palo Verde National Park on this boat tour with lunch. Spot native wildlife such as crocodiles, iguanas, monkeys, and a colorful parade of bird species during a 1-hour and 20 minutes cruise down the Tempisque River led by a naturalist guide. Afterward, discuss your sightings with fellow travelers over a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local restaurant.

We promise you'll love to explore Lake Arenal with us, the views are unbeatable! Our tour is a mix of adventure, knowledge, fun, and memories. Choose from kayak (Single or tandem) or Paddleboard.

No trip to Costa Rica is complete without exploring the open water, and for adventurous travelers, nothing beats a kayak excursion. With this beginner-friendly adventure, let your guide lead the way to a private beach where you don your life vest, grab a kayak or paddleboard, and head out on the water for a scenic cruise—with your guide, all equipment, and refreshments included.

Escape to a secluded beach paradise on a day cruise to Playa Fantasia, a hidden stretch of sand on the Nicoya Peninsula that's only accessible by boat. Enjoy the 40-minute catamaran ride from Jaco Beach, and spend several hours relaxing on beach hammocks or trying water sports like surfing, snorkeling, and boogie boarding. Stay refreshed with included tropical cocktails and a fresh chef’s lunch prepared right on the beach.

Explore the protected shoreline and waters around Manuel Antonio on a kayaking and snorkeling adventure. Paddle past islands and alongside sea bird nesting grounds in a sea kayak, and observe marine animals like parrot fish and seas turtles with a snorkeling stop at enchanting Biesanz Bay. Back on dry land, recap your journey over a delicious, homemade Costa Rican lunch.

Learn how to surf with a pro with this surfing class in Manuel Antonio, suitable for complete beginners. You'll practice paddling and getting up on your surfboard, learn how to read and catch waves, and get briefings on how to safely navigate surf and keep yourself safe in case of riptides.

The lush rainforest and white-sand beaches of Isla Tortuga are part of the Islas Negritos Biological Reserve, and are located along the eastern coast of the Nicoya Peninsula. With this tour, you'll set sail aboard a large cruise ship, admire views of Isla San Lucas and Isla Tortuga from the water, and enjoy time on the island to swim, snorkel, or relax on the beach.

Sea-lovers will enjoy this sailing ship cruise. Whether you’re a morning person or would prefer a sunset jaunt, you’ll find the Brisa Elegante comfortable and spacious. Sailing into the open sea keep a lookout for turtles, rays, and dolphins, and near the coastline listen to the raucous calls of the birds. We’ll anchor for a chance to swim, snorkel, and kayak, and then it’s time to eat!

Spend an unforgettable morning inshore fishing off Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula with a private fishing charter. The experienced crew knows the best waters to catch yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, roosterfish, wahoo, snapper, and more, so you can maximize your haul. Plus, look for other marine life such as dolphins and whales, and see remote parts of the coastline unknown to most travelers.

Battle Class III rapids while looking out for sloths, howler monkeys, and more on this rafting trip down the Savegre River from Manuel Antonio. A professional river guide and safety kayaker ensure a fun and safe trip for beginners and experienced rafters alike.

Tap into you inner jungle explorer with this waterfall hiking tour in the mountains above Jaco. Ride a 4x4 deep into the rain forest, and then hike along a vertical river, stopping to splash and swim in tropical waterfall pools along the way. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, jump off of rock ledges into the natural pools below for a true taste of ‘pura vida’!