With World Oceans Month underway in June, readers should know that Costa Rica’s “Blue Ecotourism” season is when ocean travel aligns directly with marine migration and nesting cycles across both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.
Costa Rica protects more than 30% of its marine territory through large-scale marine reserves and coastal ecosystems that support consistent, seasonal wildlife viewing in the region. During this window, multiple ocean events overlap from coast to coast:
- Sea turtle nesting (June – October): Green turtle nesting is a major summer–early fall highlight on the Caribbean coast (notably around Tortuguero and nearby nesting beaches). Olive ridley arribadas on the Pacific (notably Ostional) are most reliable July–November. Guided, low-impact night walks occur only where permitted and are led by trained local guides/conservation groups.
- Whale and dolphin migration (July – October): Humpback whales are common in the southern Pacific, with responsible viewing around protected areas like BallenaNational Marine Park.
- Coastal ecosystems (Green Season): Mangrove and coral reefs (including those in Cahuita National Park) support snorkeling, kayaking, and guided wildlife observation when ocean conditions allow.
These experiences sit within a broader coastal management system that includes Blue Flag-certified beaches, recognized for water quality, sanitation, and environmental stewardship, along with community-led conservation initiatives across coastal regions.
