Overview
An evening with one of nature's oldest rituals. Playa Las Minas is one of Costa Rica's most important nesting beaches: from October to March, black turtles — and on lucky nights the rare leatherback — haul themselves up the sand to lay their eggs. Your guides scout the beach and use infrared light so you can watch, and photograph, without disturbing them.
- 5:00 pm
Pickup in Tamarindo
Your guide collects you from your hotel for the drive to Playa Las Minas as the sun goes down.
- 6:00 pm
Briefing on the beach
A short talk on the turtles, the nesting season and how to behave around them, while the guides start scouting the sand.
- 6:30 pm
Waiting for the turtles
Nature keeps its own schedule: expect some time sitting on the sand under the stars. If the turtles are landing elsewhere, a short walk to a nearby beach may be needed.
- 7:30 pm
Nesting under infrared light
Watch a turtle dig her nest and lay her eggs, lit only by the guides' infrared lamps — close enough for photos, far enough not to disturb her.
- 9:00 pm
Back in Tamarindo
Dropped back at your hotel door.
What's included
- Round-trip transport from your Tamarindo hotel
- Local naturalist guides
- Infrared lights for viewing and photography
Not included
- Dinner
- Gratuities for your guide and driver
- Personal expenses
What to bring
- Closed walking shoes for the sand
- Dark clothing — bright colors and white disturb the turtles
- Insect repellent
- Camera (no flash on the beach)
- A light jacket for the breeze
- Turtles nest from October to March, mostly at night. Sightings are very likely in season but never guaranteed — they are wild animals.
- Expect waiting time and sitting on the sand; a short walk to a nearby beach is sometimes needed.
- Children under 12 pay half price; under 7 go free.
- Cancellations 24+ hours before departure carry a 50% fee. Inside 24 hours there is no refund.