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Tortuga Island
Are you ready for a relaxing boat trip to one of Costa Rica’s most heavenly islands? Are you craving white sand beaches and more palm trees? Then we have the place for you. Join us on our Tortuga Island tour. This is where you will find the tropical paradise you have been looking for. On this full-day trip, you will cruise across the Gulf of Nicoya and arrive at Tortuga Island’s beautiful white sand beach. Once you come, there are many activities to participate in. You can enjoy the beauty of the island by taking a leisurely nature hike, discovering the underwater magic with a snorkeling adventure, or simply lay back and relax on the beach and soak it all in. After you have time to take it all in and enjoy some activities, you will be treated to a traditional Costa Rican lunch right on the beach. You will love the great food, great company, and great times this tour has to offer.
Family-Friendly Adventure
Definitely, an experience to write home about. Once you have taken advantage of what Tortuga Island has to offer, we will jump back on the boat for a short ride back to shore, where your shuttle home will be waiting for you. Join us on the Tortuga Island Costa Rica tour, and you are sure to make memories to last a lifetime. Make sure you bring a towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, and a camera; the warm crystal blue waters will be screaming your name.
Getting to Tortuga Island from Jaco
Tortuga Island sits in the Gulf of Nicoya, and from Jaco the easiest way to get there is on an organized boat tour. On our Tortuga Island Catamaran, pickup is included from most Jaco and Herradura hotels (between 7:00 and 7:10 am), check-in is at 7:15 am and the boat departs at 7:45 am. The crossing takes about 40 to 60 minutes each way.
Three Ways to Visit Tortuga Island
- Shared catamaran: the classic day trip, with a small breakfast, fresh lunch, fruit and drinks on board, plus time to swim, snorkel and relax on the beach. Children 4 to 13 have a reduced rate.
- Private Subwing tour: the Tortuga Island Subwing is a private boat for your group (priced for 1 to 4 people, then per person up to 10), with lunch, snorkel gear, a stand-up paddleboard and a subwing to glide underwater behind the boat.
- Private yacht charter: for groups and celebrations, the full-day Tortuga Island charter on Big Thunder runs from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
What to Expect on the Island
Expect white sand, calm turquoise water and plenty of shade under the palms. Most visitors split the day between snorkeling, a short nature walk, and simply relaxing on the beach before lunch is served right on the island. It’s an easy, family-friendly day out.
Tips for a Great Tortuga Island Day
- Wear your swimsuit and bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- Bring a little cash for tips and souvenirs.
- If you get seasick, take something before the boat ride.
- Book early in high season, when the catamaran fills up fast.
Plan the rest of your trip with our guide to things to do in Jaco or browse all tours in Jaco.

