Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddle Boarding in Costa Rica

Drift through mangroves and reach the turtle nesting grounds by water

Kayak or stand-up paddle board down a river through mangrove areas in Costa Rica, visiting the Ostional Turtle nesting grounds where you'll learn why they matter. A guide explains the ecosystem along the way; refreshments and fresh local fruit are provided, and the paddle takes roughly two hours.

The Experience

You'll spend about two hours on the water, choosing between a kayak (single or double) or a stand-up paddle board depending on what suits you. The route follows the river through mangrove-covered sections where the tidal conditions are timed to give you the smoothest ride. Your guide points out the birds and mammals you'll encounter and talks through how the ecosystem works and what makes it worth protecting.

The Ostional Turtle nesting grounds are the main stop—you'll learn what makes them special and why the turtles return there. Between the paddling and the wildlife, there's time to take a dip in the ocean and enjoy refreshments: coconut water and fresh local fruit (watermelon and passion fruit) are included. The paddle back to the starting point ends with another river dip before you finish.

A live guide leads the activity in English or Spanish, and pickup is included in the price. Infants can come along (they sit on an adult's lap or in a stroller), and the activity suits all fitness levels. Public transportation options are available nearby if you're arranging your own way there.

What’s included

• Kayak or stand-up paddle board (your choice of single or double kayak).
• guide in English or Spanish.
• pickup.
• refreshments including coconut water and fresh local fruit.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Everyday Nosara Outdoor Experience

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to paddle yourself in a small guided group rather than watch from a boat, and you're comfortable with a hands-on experience in tidal waters.

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Top questions

What's the difference between a kayak and a stand-up paddle board on this activity?

You choose which one you want when you book. Kayaks come as singles or doubles, and both kayaks and SUP boards are provided by the operator—you don't bring your own. The route and stops are the same either way.

What wildlife will I actually see on the river?

The guide points out birds and mammals along the mangrove sections as you paddle. The operator mentions exotics in the description, though specific species depend on the day and the tidal window.

Why are the Ostional Turtle nesting grounds special?

Ostional is one of the few places in the world where sea turtles nest in large numbers during synchronized arrivals called "arribadas." The guide explains this when you visit the grounds during the paddle.

How long does the whole activity take?

The paddle itself runs about two hours, plus time at the turtle nesting grounds and for refreshments. Plan for roughly two and a half hours total from start to finish.

Can I bring my kids on this activity?

Yes—children are welcome from age one. Infants sit on an adult's lap during the paddle, and small children can ride in a stroller or pram if you bring one.

Is the paddle difficult if I've never kayaked before?

The activity suits all fitness levels. The tidal conditions are timed to make the ride smooth, and the guide is there the whole time. If you're unsure about balance on a SUP board, the kayak option (especially a double) is more stable.