Setting Sail from San José

The day began with the kind of early morning wake-up call that only a true adventurer can appreciate. At 5:45 AM, my wife and I were the last to be picked up from our hotel, joining a lively group of fellow travelers from the US, Mexico, and Europe. The guides were a breath of fresh air, their enthusiasm infectious as we embarked on our journey from San José to Puntarenas. The two-hour drive was a visual feast, with the lush rainforest and quaint towns rolling by our windows. The tour bus was surprisingly comfortable, making the journey a breeze.

We made a pit stop at a charming restaurant and souvenir shop, where we indulged in some local delicacies and browsed through an array of trinkets. It was the perfect prelude to the adventure that awaited us. Upon reaching Puntarenas, we had a moment to freshen up at the facilities before boarding the boat to Isla Tortuga. As we stood on the dock, a crocodile made a surprise appearance, setting the tone for the unexpected delights of the day.

Ocean Wonders and Whales

Once aboard, the ocean breeze and the promise of adventure filled the air. It wasn’t long before we were greeted by a pod of playful dolphins, their acrobatics a joyful spectacle against the backdrop of the open sea. Our first stop was near another island, where the guides attempted to summon spider monkeys. Though the monkeys were elusive, the day took a magical turn when we spotted a humpback whale and her calf. It was an awe-inspiring sight, a reminder of the ocean’s boundless wonders.

The snorkeling near Tortuga Island was a vibrant underwater escapade. Despite the water being less clear than my previous dives in Belize and Cozumel, the abundance of marine life was captivating. Thousands of fish, starfish, and sea urchins danced beneath the waves, and the guides were adept at pointing out the hidden gems of the sea. The changing ocean currents in September had stirred up some sediment, but it added a touch of mystery to the underwater world.

Island Bliss and New Friendships

Arriving at Tortuga Island felt like stepping into a postcard. The beach was a slice of paradise, with calm turquoise waters and swaying palm trees. We found a perfect spot to unwind, and the tour provided a delicious lunch that fueled our afternoon of relaxation. The island’s charm was further enhanced by the sight of adorable little pigs trotting around, adding a whimsical touch to the serene setting.

We spent four blissful hours on the island, swimming in the gentle waves and soaking up the sun. It was a day that reminded me of why I chase the ocean’s call, the simple joys of sun, sea, and sand. As we made our way back to San José, the boat was filled with the contented silence of a day well spent. We had made a new friend during the excursion, someone we would keep in touch with long after the trip ended.

The Tortuga Island Tour was a beautiful surprise, a day of unexpected encounters and serene moments. It’s an experience I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone seeking a taste of Costa Rica’s coastal magic.