The Best Costa Rica Snorkeling Tour Guide

The Best Costa Rica Snorkeling Tour Guide

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A man in snorkel gear floating in blue water and the text "snorkeling tours in Costa Rica".

One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Costa Rica is snorkeling, and you can take a Costa Rica snorkeling tour in many parts of the country. I’ve been snorkeling before and it’s a really cool way to see the life underwater without having to dive deep into the ocean.

You can take many types of snorkeling tours in Costa Rica, from getting a private boat to simple snorkeling tours great for families. 

I’ve listed the top ten snorkeling tours in Costa Rica in this article. You will find a tour for every budget and level of snorkeling. 

Last Updated Date: May 3, 2024

Originally Published Date: February 19, 2024

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Ready to book a Costa Rica snorkeling tour?

The top option is the Tamarindo Snorkel & Sunset Cruise with Lunch. The tour has hundreds of five-star reviews and includes lunch and an open bar.

Top 10 Costa Rica Snorkeling Tours

There are lots of snorkeling tours you can take in Costa Rica, but not all of them are equal. If you are signing up for one, you want to ensure you will have a good experience.

Here are the top 10 snorkeling tours in Costa Rica based on reviews and what’s included in the price.

1. Tamarindo Snorkel & Sunset Cruise with Lunch

a sunset over the water in Costa Rica

The top Costa Rica snorkeling tour is the Tamarindo Snorkel & Sunset Cruise with Lunch. The tour includes everything on the boat, including lunch and unlimited drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. 

You will meet at the dock, or you can pay an extra fee to get picked up at your hotel. Once on the boat, you will head to a secluded bay. It is a great place to snorkel, paddle board, swim, or enjoy time on the ship. 

The tour ends just in time for you to watch the sunset over the water before the tour ends back where it started. 

2. Catamaran Snorkeling & Sunset Sailing Tour

Sunset on a catamaran tour.

Another option is the Catamaran Snorkeling & Sunset Sailing Tour. This tour is similar to the tour above, but it is at Playas del Coco. 

You will get time to snorkel or do other water sports. Lunch and the open bar is included while you are on the catamaran tour.

3. Isla Tortuga Snorkeling Tour

Another great option is the Isla Tortuga Snorkeling Tour, which focuses more on the snorkeling than the tour above. 

You will take a boat ride to Isla Tortuga. There, you will snorkel in clear water surrounded by many types of fish. 

After snorkeling, head to the beach to relax and enjoy a snack. 

4. Snorkeling Tour on Caño Island with Lunch

Costa Rica catamaran tour under a clear blue sky on a beach near an island.

Another island tour with excellent reviews is the Snorkeling Tour on Caño Island with Lunch.

The biggest benefit of this tour is that it is limited to 16 people, so you get more time in the water.

The day starts with a safety briefing before you head to the boat for your snorkeling adventure. You will snorkel twice, each time in a different spot, for maximum opportunity to see sea creatures. Finally, lunch is included at the end of the trip back on land.

5. Marlin del Rey Catamaran Snorkel Sunset Cruise – Tamarindo or Playas del Coco

If you want to watch the sunset after you snorkel, take the Marlin del Rey Catamaran Snorkel Sunset Cruise

You can book the tour from Tamarindo or Playas del Coco and everything you need to enjoy your time on the boat, including the snorkeling equipment. 

You will also get lunch and access to the open bar with top-shelf liquor. The tour ends at sunset, so you can see beautiful views and take photos from the catamaran.

6. Snorkeling at Catalina Islands & North Island

beautiful blue waters prior to snorkeling off a catamaran in Costa Rica

The Snorkeling at Catalina Islands & North Island tour has everything you need to have a great day under the sea. 

You will be picked up at your hotel and taken to the boat, where snacks, light refreshments, and snorkeling gear await. 

The boat will dock at two prime snorkeling spots, where you will see fish, turtles, and more.

7. Catamaran Snorkeling at Caño Island from Drake Bay

If you want to snorkel and visit a tropical island covered in rainforest, book the Catamaran Snorkeling at Caño Island from Drake Bay.

The day starts with a one-hour boat ride to the island, followed by two snorkeling sessions where you can see a variety of fish. 

When you’re not snorkeling, you can explore the beaches of Caño Island, hang out on the catamaran, and enjoy the included lunch buffet.

8. ATV and Snorkel from Playa Flamingo

Book the ATV and Snorkel from Playa Flamingo if you want more fun than just snorkeling.

You will spend the morning ATVing through the rainforest and water before heading to the beach to snorkel. Make sure your Costa Rica packing list is complete so you’re prepared for the different activities!

The tour also includes hotel pick-up and drop-off so that you can have a fun, carefree day from start to finish.

9. Private Sailing Tour on Catamaran Playtide Charters Tamarindo

If you want a day of snorkeling just for you and your crew, book the Private Sailing Tour on Catamaran Playtide Charters.

The tour is all-inclusive, with lunch, snacks, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. 

You will also get all the equipment you need to snorkel, paddleboard, and kayak as much as you want from the boat.

10. Private Morning Catamaran in Playa Flamingo

Calm beach on a sunset.

Another option for a private snorkeling tour in Costa Rica is the Private Morning Catamaran in Playa Flamingo

The private ride is for up to ten of your friends and family to enjoy. You will cruise to a secluded bay before diving in to snorkel, kayak, and swim. 

Lunch and drinks are included on the ship, and pick up and drop off from your hotel. 

Ready for Your Costa Rica Snorkeling Tour?

Snorkeling is a lot of fun, and Costa Rica is the perfect place to do it. No matter which tour you choose or where in the country you go snorkeling, you’ll have a great time.

Don’t wait. Book your Costa Rica snorkeling tour now!

Looking for some more fun Costa Rica guides and tours?