Turtle Watching Night Tour at Playa Minas, Costa Rica

Nighttime Turtle Nesting Experience in Guanacaste

You’ll get to see wild turtles nesting on a quiet Costa Rican beach—sometimes even rare leatherbacks—guided by locals who know exactly where to look. It’s peaceful, real, and something you won’t forget.

Step-by-step itinerary

Turtle Watching at Playa Minas

• Hotel pickup at 6:00 pm
• Travel to Playa Las Minas
• Watch black and leatherback turtles nesting
• Use infra red light to see turtles clearly
• Possible hike to nearby beach to spot turtles
• Wait and sit on sand during turtle watching

The Experience

We met our guide just after sunset, right outside the hotel lobby—he had that relaxed local vibe and a flashlight with a red filter dangling from his wrist. The drive to Playa Minas was quiet, windows down, the smell of saltwater sneaking in as we got closer. I’d read about turtle nesting before, but nothing really prepares you for the hush of a dark beach, just the sound of waves and your own footsteps crunching over shells.

Our group waited on the sand, shoes off because it’s easier to feel where you’re stepping. The guide explained how black turtles come ashore here between October and April—sometimes hundreds in one night. We kept our voices low; even whispers seemed loud under that wide sky. After maybe twenty minutes (felt longer), he pointed out slow-moving shapes near the waterline. The turtles looked almost ancient up close, their shells glistening under the faint red light. One woman next to me gasped when a leatherback appeared—apparently they’re rare here, and huge. You could actually hear her scraping at the sand to dig her nest.

Bring dark clothes if you go—white sneakers stand out like headlights. And bug spray is a must; I learned that fast when something bit my ankle while we waited. There’s some walking involved, sometimes even a short hike if the turtles are further down the coast. But honestly, sitting on cool sand under all those stars, watching these creatures do what they’ve done for centuries—it’s worth every minute.

What’s included

Your ride from the hotel (air-conditioned), expert local guide with special lights for turtle viewing, and all arrangements at Playa Minas are included.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Side by Side ATV Tours & WILD LIFE

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Top questions

What time does the turtle watching tour start?

Pick-up is usually around 6:00 pm, after sunset when turtles begin arriving on Playa Minas.

Can I use my camera during the tour?

You can take photos, but only without flash. Guides provide special lights so you can see clearly without disturbing the turtles.

Is there a chance to see leatherback turtles?

Yes, though they're rare. Most nights you'll see black turtles, but sometimes leatherbacks come ashore too.

How much walking is involved?

Expect some walking on sand and possibly a short hike if turtles are nesting further away. Comfortable shoes are recommended.