Curú & Tortuga Islands: Bioluminescence Night Swim Tour

Summary

Swim at night in glowing waters off Tortuga Island with sunset views and local stories

You’ll watch sunset colors fade over Tortuga Islands before slipping into warm water alive with blue bioluminescent sparks. With local guides sharing stories and fruit on a quiet beach, you’ll swim or watch from the boat as the sea lights up around you — then head back through Curú Wildlife Refuge changed by what you’ve seen.

What’s the experience like?

I’d heard about the bioluminescence near Curú Wildlife Refuge, but honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The idea of swimming at night sounded a little wild — I mean, who jumps into the ocean after dark on purpose? But as we waited on Curú Beach, the air felt soft and salty, and our guide Andrés handed out slices of pineapple while telling us about his family’s history with the refuge. It felt like he knew every monkey by name. There was this weird calm before we even got on the boat.

The ride out to Tortuga Islands only took about fifteen minutes, but it was just enough time for the sun to start melting into these wild pinks and oranges. We landed on this empty stretch of white sand — not another group in sight — and just sat there for a bit with sticky fingers from the fruit. Someone pointed out a coati nosing around in the brush. I tried to get a photo but mostly ended up laughing at myself. It was peaceful in that way where you almost forget you’re on a tour.

When it finally got dark enough (which happens fast here), Andrés explained how the bioluminescence works — something about plankton and water temperature, but honestly, my brain was busy trying to process what happened next. He said we could swim or just watch from the boat. I hesitated for half a second before slipping into the water. Every move made these tiny blue sparks swirl around my arms and legs. It felt unreal — like I was making my own little galaxy just by moving. The mask they gave us made it even clearer under the surface. I still think about that light clinging to my skin when we climbed back onto the boat, shivering and grinning.

On the way back to Curú Beach, nobody talked much — not because we were tired, but because it felt like anything you said would break whatever spell had happened out there. There were showers waiting for us and some people joked about glowing all night (we didn’t). If you’re curious or even just a little bit nervous about swimming at night… well, so was I.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Curú Refuge and Bioluminescence Tour

• Arrive early at Curú Wildlife Refuge
• Observe monkeys, deer, coatis, and iguanas
• Begin tour at Curú Beach at 5 p.m.
• Boat trip to Tortuga Islands (15 minutes)
• Enjoy sunset and snack on white sand beach
• Boat to bioluminescence viewing spot
• Learn about bioluminescence phenomenon
• Swim or observe bioluminescence with snorkeling mask
• Return to Curú Beach
• Use showers and restrooms to end tour

Top questions

Is entry to Curú Wildlife Refuge included in this bioluminescence tour?

Yes, your tour price covers entry to Curú Wildlife Refuge plus parking and use of trails before departure.

How long does it take to get from Curú Beach to Tortuga Islands?

The boat ride takes about 15 minutes each way between Curú Beach and Tortuga Islands.

Can I swim during the bioluminescence experience?

Yes, you can swim in the sea at night or observe from the boat; snorkeling masks are provided if you want a closer look.

Are snacks or drinks included on this tour?

Yes, fruit and soft drinks are served while watching sunset on Tortuga Island’s beach.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?

The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels; infants can join with an adult.

What wildlife might I see before starting the tour?

You may spot monkeys, deer, coatis, iguanas, and other animals inside Curú Wildlife Refuge before departure.

Are there showers or restrooms available after swimming?

Yes, showers and restrooms are available back at Curú Beach when you return from swimming.

What’s included

Your evening includes entry to Curú Wildlife Refuge (with parking), round-trip boat transfer from Curú Beach to Tortuga Island, fruit snacks and soft drinks at sunset, use of snorkeling equipment for viewing bioluminescence up close if you want it, plus access to showers and restrooms after your swim before heading home again.