Audio Guide of Playa Grande

Playa Grande is a public beach and is therefore open 24 hours a day. It is part of Las Baulas National Marine Park, dedicated to the protection of sea turtles. To get there from Tamarindo, you can take a water taxi (boat) across the Matapalo River estuary, or drive for about 20 minutes. It is an experience you should not miss!

Access to the beach itself is free if you go on your own. However, if you want to join a guided tour to see turtles nesting, especially during the season, there is an entrance fee for Las Baulas National Marine Park that helps support its conservation. We recommend checking the current rates on the official website for Las Baulas National Marine Park.

If you only want to enjoy the beach, a couple of hours will be enough. But if your goal is to see sea turtles nesting, the visit can last between 2 and 4 hours, since it depends on timing and luck. Patience is key to witnessing this miracle of nature!

Beyond its vital importance as a sanctuary for olive ridley and leatherback turtles, Playa Grande has been a cornerstone in raising awareness about marine conservation in Costa Rica. Its designation as Las Baulas National Marine Park in 1995 was a milestone in the protection of these species. It is a place where nature tells its own story, one that we must listen to and protect.

The best time to see leatherback turtles is from October to March, and olive ridley turtles from August to December. To enjoy the beach with fewer people, I suggest going early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Sunrise and sunset here are breathtaking spectacles.

Because it is a natural beach and a protected area, facilities for people with reduced mobility are limited. Access to the sand can be difficult for wheelchairs, although the main trail to some viewing points may be more manageable. We recommend calling the National Park in advance to get updated accessibility information.

Absolutely. Just across the estuary, you have lively Tamarindo with its restaurants and shops. You can also explore Las Baulas National Marine Park to see crocodiles in the estuary, or venture to nearby beaches such as Ventanas Beach or Carbon Beach. A world of adventure is waiting to be discovered.

If you want to see turtles, book the guided tour in advance, wear dark, discreet clothing, and follow the guides' instructions. For the beach, do not forget reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, water, and a good hat. And remember the golden rule: take only pictures and leave only footprints. You can find more information on the Tamarindo Beach page.