Papagayo Peninsula is an oasis of biodiversity and eco-rich land. Looking out over the Pacific ocean, the area boasts a whole host of rugged rock formations and islands. In contrast with the Caribbean’s clear waters and coral reefs, this unique area sparks curiosity thanks to its deep waters and submerged seamounts that are home to a rich community of marine wildlife.
Boat trips are the perfect way to steer your own course through this rich ecosystem, with every secluded cove and beautiful stretch of coastline teasing you with new adventures. It’s the ultimate private excursion for you and your guests, offering plenty of space to spread out, kick back or entertain.
Find a snorkelling spot you love? Your dedicated crew won’t weigh anchor without you. Want to spend more time ashore? The boat is ready to pick you up whenever you want to venture back. You’re driving the itinerary, allowing you to maximize your time on the water.
How does private boat trip work?
When it comes to booking a boating experience in Guanacaste, we offer two options. Half day trips and full day excursions are available on a range of different vessels, from sail boats and catamarans to speed boats, sports fishing boats and yachts.
Depending on the activities that you’re most interested in, our experienced concierge team will be able to guide you in planning all the little details. All you have to do is relax, soak in the breathtaking scenery and enjoy quality time with your guests.
All of the boats that we recommend come complete with a dedicated captain and guide or shipmate. This ensures that you’ll enjoy the professional service of a dedicated crew throughout your time on board, ready to support your every request. What’s more, food and drink is included as standard, whether that’s healthy snacks and drinks to keep you energized in the morning or a delicious lunch handcrafted with local ingredients to sustain a full day of adventures.
What activities are available on the Guanacaste coast?
This alluring backdrop creates the perfect playground for our guests to explore. The changing seasons create fresh conditions and attract different wildlife to the coast throughout the year, so there’s always something new to discover. Here are just a few of our most popular activities:
- Fishing is popular in Guanacaste, thanks to its abundance of Sailfish, Striped and Blue Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Roosterfish, Mackerel, Amberjack and Mahi Mahi. It’s a sport that can be enjoyed all year round, with conditions being most favorable from May – August. Depending on the type of fish that you’re most interested in finding, our concierge team will be able to determine whether sport fishing, coastal or offshore fishing will be most suitable for you and your guests.
- Papagayo offers the best surroundings for land-based scuba diving and snorkelling in Costa Rica. Just beneath the waves, it’s possible to catch a glimpse of bright reef fish, octopus, seahorses, rays, sharks and turtles. At certain times of year, you may even find yourself swimming alongside a stunning group of giant manta rays, while dolphins make their homes here all year round.
- Depending on the season, our guides will be able to offer you one-of-a-kind wildlife experiences to encounter too. Join us in August and September or January through March to see pods of humpback whales grace our shores. Many of our guests also love to plan their trips between June and September to see the mating sea turtles as they prepare to lay their next batch of eggs.
- The depths of the oceans are ideal for practising watersports. A number of our boats provide access to paddleboards, waterskis, wakeboards, inner tubes and subwings, allowing you to feel that rush of adrenaline while you’re on the water.
- If you’re looking for something a little more tranquil, you’ll relish the quiet cruising retreats nestled in the Costa Rican coastline. Many of the alluring shores aren’t connected to the land and can only be reached via the water, making private boat trips an essential part of unwinding during your stay. Use your boat as a base to look for wildlife, before pulling into a private beach to bask in the sun or explore natural caves and estuaries.
What are the best places to visit during my trip?
Our head concierge, Bari, recommends three iconic places to consider visiting during your excursion:
- Monkey head island is a naturally-occurring rock formation that perfectly resembles a carved profile of a gorilla. Not only does it offer an idyllic photo opportunity for guests cruising around the area, it’s also a great spot for diving into the ocean. Moray eels, large schools of colorful fish and spotted eagle rays have been known to make their home here, as well as the occasional turtle.
- Playa Huevos offers incredible caves with breathtaking views. Visit at high tide to feel the power of the water surging and rushing around you. If you’re looking for something a little more immersive, time your trip at low time to venture down into the caves and through to the next bay.
- The Palmares estuary is located to the north of the peninsula, offering a magical journey into the mangrove, part of the Guanacaste Costa Rica dry forest. Surrounded by a collection of ancient mythical trees, guests can travel further into the estuary to spot local birds of prey and even the occasional crocodile.
Ready to plan your next adventure? Our concierge team is here to help you plan your next adventures in Guanacaste. For more details on our full range or services and bookings, contact us here.