Turtle, Dolphin, & Whale WAtching
This private boat tour gives you a front-row seat to the wildlife that makes Playa Garza so special. We focus on spotting on dolphins, sea turtles, and seasonal whales.
This private boat tour gives you a front-row seat to the wildlife that makes Playa Garza so special. We focus on spotting on dolphins, sea turtles, and seasonal whales.
Private Boat Charter
A comfortable, well-equipped boat operated by our internationally certified captain and lifeguard who has spent a lifetime navigating the waters around Playa Garza and Nosara.
Wildlife Viewing
Opportunities to see dolphins, whales (seasonally), sea turtles, rays, and vibrant birdlife. Every outing is unique, shaped by the conditions and natural movement of marine life.
Swimming Stop (Optional)
If the water is clear and conditions allow, we’ll anchor in calm water so you can cool off and enjoy a dip.
Fresh Fruit & Drinks
Enjoy a light selection of fresh fruit and cold beverages on board.
Local Guidance
Learn about migration patterns, feeding behaviors, and the seasonal rhythms that bring different animals to this part of Costa Rica.
Playful, curious, and often traveling in groups, dolphins are some of the most joyful wildlife to encounter along the Nosara coastline. We frequently see spotted, bottlenose, and spinner dolphins riding the pressure wave of the bow or cruising just off the stern.
Some mornings they come close enough that you can hear their breath break the surface. Other days, you’ll watch them arc above the water across the horizon.
Every sighting is different, and that unpredictability is part of what makes your experience special.
From July to November, and again from December to early spring, whales migrate through the waters off Playa Garza.
Whale species include:
• Humpback
• Byrde's
• Pilot
• Orcas
• Sperm
You may witness a distant breach, a mother teaching her calf to surface, or the slow rise of a whale lifting above the surface before disappearing into the deep. These are powerful encounters, not guaranteed, but awe-inspiring when they arrive.
Our captain reads the water carefully, following subtle cues that often lead to extraordinary sightings.
Nosara is home to green sea turtles, olive ridleys, and occasionally hawksbills.
Depending on the season, you may see turtles resting near the surface, feeding, or gliding just beneath the waves beside the boat.
If you’re visiting during nesting periods, the coastline becomes even more active as turtles return to nearby beaches, following patterns older than memory.
Seeing one in its natural environment, unhurried and undisturbed, is a moment you'll never forget.
While the focus is on marine life, the coastal jungle offers its own surprises. Howler monkeys occasionally appear in the trees near the beach, iguanas warm themselves on the rocks, and pelicans and seabirds hunt just offshore.
It’s a reminder that the coastline is a living ecosystem, full of stunning moments.
Join us for an unforgettable wildlife experience on the Playa Garza waters.
Helpful details about wildlife sightings, timing, and what to expect on the water.
Dolphins and sea turtles are seen frequently throughout the year. Depending on the season and conditions, you may also see rays, seabirds, and a variety of whale species during migration months. Species you may see include humpback, byrde's, pilot, orcas, and sperm whales.
Whale season typically runs from August to November, with additional sightings possible from January to March. These are humpback whales migrating through the area.
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but dolphins are very common in this area and are seen on many outings. Your captain watches bird activity, surface movement, and water conditions to increase the chances of sightings.
Yes. This tour is family-friendly and suitable for children. Life jackets are provided for all ages, and the pace of the trip is adjusted based on sea conditions and the group.
Our wildlife watching tours last 3 hours so you can experience how wildlife activity unfolds during the outing.
Tours depart from Playa Garza, a calm bay located about 10–12 minutes from Playa Guiones. The meeting location for our tours is at our Monkey Head Adventures office in Garza, which you can see on Google Maps.
This is primarily a boat-based wildlife viewing experience. Depending on conditions, your captain may stop for a swim, but wildlife viewing always comes first.
We recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a swimsuit, a towel, and a camera or phone with waterproof protection. Water and basic safety equipment are provided on board.
Yes. Wildlife watching tours with Monkey Head Adventures are private, meaning the boat is reserved only for your group.
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