Ostional Wildlife Refuge

The Ostional Wildlife Refuge is located in the Guanacaste Province and is comprised of 180 acres of beach front. The refuge serves as a major breeding ground for the Olive Ridley turtle. During arribadas (the last quarter moon of each month during the rain season) these turtles will flood the shores with one goal in mind - to lay their eggs. They will not stop for anything and are completely focused on the task at hand!

Turtles nest at Ostional Wildlife Refuge all year long, but it is much more accelerated during the arribadas. During these fantastic events turtles can come in by the tens of thousands, literally covering the beaches!

Visitors are encouraged to seek the services of guides and tours, as they are the best way to see the nesting turtles and hatching areas. Admission to the refuge during arribadas is 10USD and includes a local guide.

The Northwest Pacific is one of the driest climates in Costa Rica. The beach areas have a fairly steady year round temperature with daytime highs averaging in the upper 80s to lower 90s. Night time lows are usually in the upper 70s. Precipitation varies through the year with the nicest weather between November and August.

Visitors should pack a bathing suit, towel, shorts, tee shirts, appropriate shoes, rain gear, sun block, and insect repellent.

Fun Fact: The turtles that nest here were also born here. Scientists believe that they can literally smell the beach they came from for hundreds of miles!

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