When and where to see turtles in Costa Rica: Arribada
Are you wondering when and where to see turtles in Costa Rica? What if I told you that there exists a place where you can witness thousands of turtles come to shore all at once. Also, what if I told you that this event was one of the most magical and awe-inspiring moments of my travels. Does it make you want to go for yourself? It should, because the Arribada in Costa Rica is one of Mother Natures greatest shows.
What is an Arribada?
“Arribada” means “arrival by sea” in Spanish, signifying the massive arrival of turtles on the beaches of Ostional, Costa Rica. Every year, at the same place, millions of female turtles come ashore to nest and lay their eggs.
Over the span of a few days, you can see hundreds of thousands of turtles make their way to the shore to nest. It sounds impossible, as though it’s some fictional scenario. Yet, I assure you that this is an actual event that happens. The best way to describe it is magical.
When and where to see turtles in Costa Rica: the Arribada
When does an Arribada happen?
First of all, as we know, Mother Nature follows her own rhythm. Therefore, it’s difficult to calculate the precise moment an Arribada will start. However, generally speaking, an Arribada will happen once a month. However, the largest Arribadas tend to take place between the months of July and November. The largest happening in September and October.
Despite Arribadas supposedly being a monthly occurrence, it has been known to happen that months get skipped. For example, in October 2022 there wasn’t one, leading to an even grander one happening in November.
Where can I see an Arribada
There are a few different places to observe an Arribada in Costa Rica, however Ostional beach is known for being one of the best places in the world to see an Arribada. Considered the largest Arribada in the world, Ostional is truly the best place to try and witness one for yourself. Here’s a post about how to get to Ostional.
Though Ostional is the place to see the Arribada, you do not need to actually stay in Ostional to see the event. Once an Arribada is announced there are generally tours that you can participate in from different areas. I’ll get into where to stay and how to plan your tour a bit further on.
Tips for seeing an Arribada
Like I’ve mentioned Mother Nature is known for being unpredictable. This being said, all hope is not lost. Nevertheless, I do not recommend planning your entire trip around seeing an Arribada, as this might lead to disappointment. However, there are definitely measures that can be taken in order to give yourself better chances of seeing an Arribada.
1. Follow the official Facebook page.
There is an official Facebook Page for the association that supervises the beach. Updated rather frequently, you can find the latest information concerning turtle activity at Ostional beach. Generally, on the first day of the arrival it’ll be announced on this page.
We were literally on our way to catch a bus to another region of Costa Rica when we saw on Facebook that Arribada in Ostional was starting. It truly is the best way to get information about seeing turtles at Ostional.
Click here for the official page.
2. Check the moon cycles
Turtles aren’t big fans of bright light, this being said, they generally avoid coming ashore during the full moon. However, this is not a set-in-stone rule.
Planning to see turtles during an Arribada
Where to stay
As I previously mentioned, you do not need to stay in the town of Ostional in order to witness an Arribada. Ostional is a rather small town located in the Nicoya province. Without beating around the bush, I’ll just tell you now that there is absolutely nothing exceptional to do here, except see an Arribada.
However, if you want experience the Arribada from start to finish, or even just a few days, there are places to stay in Ostional. Keep in mind that this area is a Natural Reserve though and accommodation will be rather basic.
Best Luxury option: Boutique Hotel Luna Azul
Not too far from Ostional, Boutique hotel Luna Azul has everything onsite to have a fantastic stay. Featuring air conditioned bungalows, an on-site restaurant and beautiful panoramic views, you’ll surely be comfortable here!
Closest option: Cabinas Arribadas
If you’re looking for proximity to Playa Ostional, then staying at Cabinas Arribadas is as close as it gets! The hotel is right across the street from the associations’ headquarters (where the tours leave from).
Accommodation is basic but convenient. With air conditioned rooms, family rooms, and public kitchen, you have everything you need at Cabinas Arribadas.
Best Budget option: Hostel Nicoa
Technically located closer to Nosara, Hostel Nicoa is on the northern end of Nosara and not too far from Ostional (about 6 km).
Enjoy large dorms, an outside pool, a spacious garden and chill vibes at Hostel Nicoa.
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Overall, I recommend staying in an area that is within day-trip distance from Ostional. This will allow you to stay in an area with more activities while waiting for an Arribada to be announced. I can recommend staying in some of the following areas: Nosara; Samara; and Tamarindo area.
How to See the turtles
How to organize your tour
Lucky you! An Arribada has just been announced and now you’re wondering how you can see it for yourself. It’s very important to know that you cannot access the beach on your own. Ostional beach is a protected area and during the time of an Arribada you are absolutely required to be accompanied by a guide in order to gain access to the beach.
If already in Ostional, you can book your tour by heading over to the ‘Turtle Headquarters’ (the building near the main beach access). Or by contacting the association via Whatsapp.
Whatsapp: +506 6252 7412 or +506 8447 07 03
If you are staying outside of Ostional, you can contact your local tour guides in order to plan your tour. It is as easy as asking your hotel/hostel reception or any tour guides in the area.
Tours can fill up quickly though, so be quick!
Tours will generally be either in the very early morning (5am) or afternoon (after 4pm). We did our at 5 pm and ended up having a magnificent sunset while watching the Arribada. I definitely recommend going when it’s daylight if you can!
Note: The sun rises around 6 am and sets around 6 pm in Costa Rica.
Bonus!
Are you interested in doing more? There are volunteer programs dedicated to spending time at Ostional to help with beach clean ups and turtle preservation. While we were there, we saw multiple people who were there as volunteers.
If this interest you I would recommend contacting the association directly!
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After having witnessed an Arribada for myself, I can first handedly say it was one of the most incredible things I have ever seen. I never thought I was going to see as many turtles as we did. If you have the opportunity to see one for yourself, don’t miss out on it.
Just remember to be respectful of the turtles and follow your tour guide.
I hope this article helped you learn more about where and when to see turtles in Costa Rica!
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