Venado Island tour: Dolphins, guide, floating lunch

Dolphins on the crossing, island neighborhoods by bus, lunch on the water

A 6- to 8-hour tour from Puntarenas to Venado Island combines a boat crossing through the Gulf of Nicoya with dolphin watching, a guided bus tour of the island's beaches and local communities, and lunch at a floating restaurant. A certified guide speaks English or Spanish and explains the island's history and way of life. The day ends with free time to swim or rest on the beach.

Step-by-step itinerary

Island tour and floating restaurant lunch

• Set sail from Puntarenas
• Spot dolphins in Gulf of Nicoya
• Learn about WWII shipwreck
• Bus tour around Venado Island
• Discover local neighborhoods and beaches
• Enjoy lunch at floating restaurant
• Relax on beach or swim

The experience

The boat leaves Puntarenas and crosses the Gulf of Nicoya toward Venado Island, with time built in to watch for dolphins in their natural habitat. Along the way, your guide points out a World War II shipwreck visible at low tide. Once you arrive at the island, you board a bus for a tour of Venado's hidden beaches, recreational areas and the neighborhoods where residents live, with explanations of local history and daily life woven throughout the route.

Lunch happens at a floating restaurant on the island, where you can see the fish farms that supply the kitchen. The catch goes from the water to your plate the same day. The setting is surrounded by mangrove and open water. After eating, you have free time to swim, walk the beach or simply sit and look out at the water and landscape.

What’s included

• Boat transport from Puntarenas to Venado Island and back.
• certified guide in English or Spanish.
• bus tour of the island.
• lunch at the floating restaurant.
• bottled water.
• tropical fruits.
• soft drink.
• dolphin watching during the crossing.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:30

AgesAdult (18 to 64 years) · Senior (65 and older) · Youth (10 to 17 years) · Child (3 to 9 years) · Infant (under 3): free

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.Operator's directions: “The meeting point is at Isla Coco's Bar & Grill. . Parking is available for guests.”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 4 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomeNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Coco's Tours Cr

Is this one for you?This tour works best for small groups and families who want a full day that mixes boat time, guided exploration and a meal with a view, all in one outing. The bus tour means you cover ground without walking long distances, and the floating restaurant is the kind of detail that makes the day feel complete rather than rushed.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

1 verified traveler review

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (10 to 17 years); Child (3 to 9 years); Infant (under 3): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

Can I really see dolphins on the boat ride to Venado Island?

Dolphin spotting is part of the crossing through the Gulf of Nicoya, though sightings depend on whether dolphins are in the area that day. Your guide will explain what to watch for and share details about the local marine life.

What does the bus tour of Venado Island actually cover?

The bus takes you to the island's best spots: hidden beaches, recreational areas and the residential neighborhoods where locals live. Your certified guide explains the island's history, culture and community life as you travel.

What's included in the lunch at the floating restaurant?

Lunch is included, served at the floating restaurant where you can watch the fish farms. The meal features fresh fish and local flavors. Bottled water, tropical fruits and a soft drink are also included throughout the day.

How much free time do I have on the beach after lunch?

After lunch, you have free time to swim, walk the beach or relax and take in the view. The exact length depends on the day's schedule, but it gives you a chance to enjoy the island at your own pace before heading back to Puntarenas.