Audio Guide of Las Baulas Marine Park

The park is open every day from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for daytime visits to the beach and trails. For nighttime turtle watching (in season), access is restricted and controlled; entry is only possible through official guided tours starting from 6:00 p.m.

The entrance fee for non-resident foreign visitors is approximately $12 USD for adults and $5 USD for children, while residents pay reduced rates. You can check updated prices and book your night visit on the official SINAC website.

For a daytime visit enjoying the beach and mangroves, we recommend allowing between 2 and 3 hours. If you take the nighttime turtle-watching tour, the full experience can last between 3 and 5 hours, depending on turtle activity that night.

This park is one of the most important nesting sanctuaries in the world for the leatherback turtle, the largest sea turtle on the planet and a critically endangered species. Visiting it directly supports the conservation of a unique prehistoric reptile.

If your main goal is to see leatherback turtles nesting, you should visit between October 20 and February 15. To enjoy sunny weather, the beach, and explore the mangroves by boat, the dry season from December to April is ideal.

Access is limited because this is a protected beach area with loose sand, which makes it difficult to use conventional wheelchairs. However, boat visits through the Tamarindo estuary can be arranged; they are much more accessible and allow you to see a great deal of wildlife.

The park is next to Playa Grande and separated by an estuary from the famous town of Tamarindo, known for its surfing and nightlife. You can also visit Ostional Wildlife Refuge or, if you are coming from the Playas del Coco area, explore other nearby beaches such as Playa Hermosa.

It is essential to wear dark clothing for night tours and **not use cameras with flash or white-light flashlights**, as they frighten the turtles. Bring biodegradable insect repellent, reusable water, and always hire a certified guide to maximize your chances of sightings.