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: June 24, 2026
Published: February 19, 2024
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Costa Rica Snorkeling Tour: Overview
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
Best for: First-time snorkelers looking for the best overall tour.
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
Best for: Travelers staying near Playas del Coco.
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
Best for: Travelers who want to spend more time snorkeling.
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
Best for: Wildlife lovers looking for a small-group experience.
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
Best for: Travelers looking for a relaxing sunset catamaran cruise.
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
Best for: Travelers hoping to see sea turtles and tropical fish.
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
Best for: Travelers exploring the Osa Peninsula.
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
Best for: Adventure seekers who want more than just snorkeling.
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
Best for: Small groups looking for a private sailing experience.
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
Best for: Families and groups who want a private snorkeling tour.
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.
How to Choose the Best Snorkeling Tour in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has incredible snorkeling along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, so the best tour for you depends on where you’re staying and the type of experience you’re looking for. Some tours focus on snorkeling at protected islands, while others combine snorkeling with catamaran sailing, sunset cruises, or other outdoor activities.
Choose a Tour Near Your Destination
Snorkeling tours depart from several popular destinations, including Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, Playas del Coco, Manuel Antonio, Drake Bay, and the Osa Peninsula. Booking a tour near where you’re staying will help you spend less time traveling and more time on the water.
Decide What Type of Tour You Want
Some tours are dedicated snorkeling trips with multiple stops, while others combine snorkeling with sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or even ATV riding. If snorkeling is your main priority, choose a tour that spends more time in the water. If you want a full day of activities, a combo tour may be the better choice.
Consider a Private Tour
Private snorkeling tours are a great option for families, groups, or travelers celebrating a special occasion. They offer a more personalized experience and allow you to enjoy the day at your own pace.
Check What’s Included
Most snorkeling tours include all of the necessary snorkeling equipment, and many also provide lunch, snacks, drinks, and hotel pickup. Comparing what’s included can help you find the best value for your trip.
What Marine Life Can You See While Snorkeling in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is home to an incredible variety of marine life, making it one of the best places in Central America to go snorkeling. While every tour is different, you can expect to see colorful tropical fish, coral reefs, sea stars, and other fascinating underwater creatures.
If you’re lucky, you may also spot sea turtles, rays, octopuses, moray eels, or even reef sharks in some snorkeling areas. Tours to places like Caño Island and the Catalina Islands are especially known for their abundant marine life and clear water.
Even when you’re not in the water, keep an eye out during the boat ride. Depending on the season and location, you may see dolphins swimming alongside the boat or humpback whales during Costa Rica’s whale migration seasons.
Remember that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but visiting protected marine areas with an experienced guide gives you the best chance of seeing Costa Rica’s diverse underwater ecosystem.
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?
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- Costa Rica Packing List
- Costa Rica Snorkeling Tours
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- Monteverde Coffee Tours
- Solo travel in Costa Rica
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