Where the dry forest of northern Guanacaste meets the Pacific, the coast is a broken line of cliffs, wave-cut caves, pocket beaches and offshore rocks, and a boat is the best way to see it. This tour leaves from Playas del Coco and heads out into the Gulf of Papagayo to look at the caves and sheltered coves along the shore, with a stop or two for snorkelling in clear, protected water. It is a different style of trip from a catamaran sunset sail: the boat is usually smaller and quicker, the route stays close to the rocks, and the emphasis is on the coastline itself and on getting in the water rather than on onboard entertainment. Guides know where the water is calm enough to look into the openings of the caves and which coves have the best fish life on the day. The tour suits travellers who like a bit of exploration and are comfortable on a small boat in light swell. It also gives you a closer look at the geology of the coast, with layered volcanic rock, sea stacks and hidden beaches that cannot be reached by road. Expect to see pelicans, frigatebirds and perhaps a turtle, a ray or schooling fish while you snorkel, though sightings vary from day to day. The details that shape the experience, including group size, departure time, snacks, drinks and the exact sites visited, depend on the option you choose, so read the inclusions on your ticket and confirm the meeting point when you book.
How it works
You reserve a departure and meet the crew at the harbour or beach at Playas del Coco at the time given when you book. After a safety briefing the boat heads out along the coast, stopping at points of interest. Some operators visit a set route and others adjust the stops to the tide, swell and visibility, so a slightly different itinerary from the description is normal. Departure times are usually in the morning or early afternoon, when the water is calmer and light is good for photographs.
What to expect
In a small boat you feel the sea more than on a catamaran, so expect some bounce and spray on the run between stops. At the caves the boat idles or anchors a safe distance away and guides explain what you are seeing; entering a cave itself depends on swell and is only done when the crew considers it safe.
Snorkel stops are in sheltered coves with warm water, and visibility is usually best on calm mornings. Bring a swimsuit, a rash guard and a towel, and expect fruit or snacks and water if included. Life jackets are normally provided and are worth wearing in the water if you are a nervous swimmer.
Making the most of it
Go in the morning if you can, since afternoon wind can make the sea choppy, and arrive on time so the group is not held back. Apply reef-safe sunscreen before you board, wear a hat that will not blow away and secure your sunglasses. If you get seasick, take a remedy before departure and sit toward the middle of the boat.
A waterproof phone case lets you photograph the caves without worry. The trip combines well with an afternoon in Playas del Coco itself, where there are simple seafood restaurants and a relaxed seafront, or with a dive or snorkel day elsewhere on the coast.
What to expect
The experience
A guided small-boat trip along the Papagayo coast from Playas del Coco, visiting sea caves and coves with snorkelling stops.
Best time
Mornings usually have calmer seas and better visibility; the dry season is the most dependable.
How long
Roughly three to four hours, depending on the option and the conditions that day.
Tips
Wear a swimsuit and rash guard, use reef-safe sunscreen, bring a towel and take a seasickness remedy if you are prone to it.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travellers and couples who prefer a coastline-focused trip on a smaller boat.
- Families
- Fine for confident swimmers aged around eight and up; ask about minimum ages and life jackets for children.
- Couples
- A private-feeling way to see hidden coves and swim in calm water away from the crowds.
- Pair with
- An afternoon in Playas del Coco, or a sunset catamaran trip on another day.
- Time needed
- Allow half a day including the drive from Tamarindo.
Good questions
Can the boat enter the caves?+
Only when swell and tide make it safe, and at the crew's discretion. Otherwise you view them from a short distance.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?+
You should be comfortable in the water with a life jacket. The snorkel spots are sheltered, but the boat ride can be bouncy.
Is it suitable for small children?+
It depends on the operator's age rules and the sea conditions. Ask before booking and choose a calm morning departure.
What will I see underwater?+
Typically reef fish, rays and sometimes turtles in warm, fairly clear water. Sightings vary and cannot be guaranteed.
How is this different from a catamaran trip?+
It is usually a smaller, faster boat focused on caves and coves, while catamarans offer a slower, more social cruise.
