Ostional Turtle Beach

Tip

Arribadas happen mostly in the rainy season, a few days before the new moon; book an accredited Ostional community guide in advance.

Be careful

No white light or flash, don't touch turtles or eggs, and follow your guide. The surf is rough — this isn't a swimming beach.

Getting there

During nesting, the beach is open only with accredited local guides (register at the ranger post in the village; fee about US$10). The road from Nosara fords a river that can rise after heavy rain — a 4×4 helps in the rainy season.

Places nearby

• Sibu Wildlife SanctuaryParks & Wildlife · from $40Non-profit sanctuary near Nosara that rehabilitates and houses injured and orphaned wildlife, mostly howler monkeys.
• Lagarta Lodge Day Pass and Chirriboca RestaurantDay Passes & Hot Springs · from $80Eco-boutique Lagarta Lodge sells a day pass for non-guests: $80 per person, of which $60 comes back as credit at the restaurant, spa and tours.
• Playa PoniesTours & Adventure · from $80Small Nosara stable running guided rides through the jungle trails by the Nosara River and out to Playa Pelada and Guiones.
• El ChivoFood & CoffeeA Nosara staple since 2009, nicknamed the town's 'Cheers': tacos, burritos, sandwiches and burgers with solid vegetarian options, local craft beer, a kids' menu and games.
• Soda y Cevichera MarySodas & Local FoodSmall cevichería-soda in Nosara with fresh ceviche, fish casados and a few vegan plates.
• Olga's BarSodas & Local FoodA super-casual local favorite right on the sand at Playa Pelada that has been around for years – grab a cold beer, watch the surfers and beach walkers, and order the patacones with guacamole.