A trip to the Ostional Wildlife Refuge in Guanacaste, Costa Rica is sure to be both fun and educational. Here, sea turtles nest by the thousands during arribadas, greeted by the warm beaches.

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. Turtles nest in the evening, so it is recommended to go to the park after 6pm.  Admission to the refuge during arribadas is 10USD and includes a local guide.

Weather and packing list

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!

Nearby Destinations

Nosara7 km
Samara35 km
Tamarindo60 km
Flamingo Beach73 km
Malpais-Santa Teresa132 km

Location

Latitude: N 9° 59' 26.45"
Longitude: W 85° 41' 55.86"

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