The bustling port of Puntarenas delivers Costa Rica’s finest coastal day trips, centered around the stunning Isla Tortuga. Two standout options shape most visitors’ experiences: the small-group boat excursions from San José and private tours from cruise ports. I’m especially fond of the Tortuga Island trips – they pack in wildlife watching, snorkeling, and beach time while keeping groups intimate. The local guides know their stuff, and everything’s included (transportation, gear, meals).
For cruise passengers, the private shore excursions from Puntarenas and Caldera ports win points for flexibility – you set the pace and picks. These well-organized outings let families and small groups really experience the coast their way.
Let’s look at my favorite full-day tours in the region…
Good To Know
Isla Tortuga Tours offers a highly recommended full-day excursion from Puntarenas with a 91% approval rating and a range of activities like monkey watching and snorkeling.
The full-day excursion from Puntarenas to Tortuga Island includes round-trip transport, amenities like unlimited drinks, and a variety of activities for $143 per person.
Small-group tours from San José provide a more personalized experience with private transport, snorkeling, dolphin tours, and spider monkey encounters, with flexible cancellation policies.
Private shore tours from Puntarenas and Caldera cruise ports offer modern, air-conditioned vehicles, free time for shopping and dining, and cancellation flexibility up to 24 hours.
Tour options from San José to Puntarenas include air-conditioned transportation, breakfast and lunch, snorkeling, and swimming, although some guests report long travel durations.
Private Isla Tortuga Full Day Tour From Puntarenas.
The Private Isla Tortuga Full Day Tour from Puntarenas offers travelers an opportunity to explore the picturesque Isla Tortuga, located just off the coast of Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
With a 91% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this private tour provides a full day of activities, including monkey and dolphin watching, snorkeling, and a delicious lunch.
Shuttle services from the cruise dock to the marina are available, and the tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment and beach chairs.
While some guests have reported concerns about overcrowding and snorkeling conditions, overall, the tour is praised for its excellent service, knowledgeable guides, and memorable wildlife encounters.
Read our full review: Private Isla Tortuga Full Day Tour From Puntarenas. Review
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Full Day Tour to Tortuga Island From San José
One full-day tour that allows visitors to explore the picturesque Tortuga Island from San José is the “Full Day Tour to Tortuga Island From San José.”
This tour whisks travelers away on an air-conditioned vehicle for a scenic journey to the Puntarenas region, where they’ll board boats to traverse the waters and reach the stunning Isla Tortuga.
The tour includes snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on the beach, as well as a delightful breakfast and lunch.
While some guests have noted long travel times and mixed feedback on snorkeling visibility, the tour generally receives positive reviews for its professional crew, enjoyable activities, and reasonable pricing with a free cancellation policy.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour to Tortuga Island From San José Review
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Full Day Excursion to Tortuga Island From Puntarenas
This full-day excursion to Tortuga Island from Puntarenas provides travelers with an opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of this picturesque island.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, coffee, tea, a delicious lunch, unlimited natural drinks, and even snorkeling equipment. Guests will have the chance to enjoy a variety of activities, including banana boat rides.
While there have been some concerns about snorkeling visibility and cleanliness, the overall feedback is positive, with travelers praising the staff’s hospitality, the quality of the food, and the fun atmosphere.
At $143 per person, this excursion offers a well-rounded day of adventure and relaxation in the stunning waters off the coast of Costa Rica.
Read our full review: Full Day Excursion to Tortuga Island From Puntarenas Review
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Isla Tortuga Full Day Tour Small Group From San José
Isla Tortuga Full Day Tour from San José provides travelers with an immersive experience exploring the picturesque island of Tortuga off the coast of Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
This small-group tour offers private transportation, a 45-minute boat ride with stops near nearby islands, and a full day of activities on Tortuga Island. Included are snorkeling, a dolphin tour, and a spider monkey tour.
Lunch, snacks, and beverages are provided. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, excluding pregnant women and those with serious medical conditions.
With free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers flexibility and convenience for guests.
Read our full review: Isla Tortuga Full Day Tour Small Group From San José Review
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Full Day Private Shore Tour in San Jose From Puntarenas Port
For travelers docking at the Puntarenas Cruise Terminal, the Full Day Private Shore Tour in San Jose from Puntarenas Port offers a comprehensive exploration of Costa Rica’s capital city.
The tour includes modern, air-conditioned private transportation and a professional local guide, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience.
With no entrance fees required, the tour provides an hour of free time for shopping and dining.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the tour.
Adjustments to the tour duration due to external factors don’t qualify for refunds, but a full refund is available if the ship can’t dock.
This tour is suitable for most travelers, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Shore Tour in San Jose From Puntarenas Port Review
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Full Day Private Shore Tour in San Jose From Caldera Cruise Port
Departing from the Caldera Cruise Terminal, the Full Day Private Shore Tour in San Jose from Caldera Cruise Port offers cruise passengers a comprehensive exploration of Costa Rica’s vibrant capital city.
Guests will enjoy modern, air-conditioned transportation and the expertise of a professional local guide. The tour includes one hour of free time for shopping and dining, with no entrance fees required.
While the tour route and duration are subject to ship docking times and events, the tour provider offers free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the start time, as well as a full refund if the ship can’t dock.
Most travelers can participate, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Shore Tour in San Jose From Caldera Cruise Port Review
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Full Day Tour to Isla Tortuga From Guanacaste
Travelers seeking a day of sun, snorkeling, and serenity can embark on the Full Day Tour to Isla Tortuga from Guanacaste.
The tour includes convenient air-conditioned transportation, snorkeling equipment, and a delightful meal of chicken, fish, rice, veggies, and more. Guests can enjoy unlimited refreshments like rum punch, coffee, and soft drinks.
The tour begins at 5:00 AM and returns to the same meeting point, Dock Rampa del Pacifico in Puntarenas.
With a maximum of 180 travelers, this full-day excursion offers a comprehensive experience for a competitive price, starting from $270 per person with free cancellation and rescheduling.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour to Isla Tortuga From Guanacaste Review
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The Sum Up
Puntarenas offers visitors an array of full-day tour options to explore the stunning Isla Tortuga. Whether you’re based in San José, Guanacaste, or at the Puntarenas or Caldera cruise ports, you can easily access these tours and enjoy a day of snorkeling, relaxation, and stunning natural scenery on the island. With various tour packages available, there’s something to suit every traveler’s preferences and budget.