Las Baulas National Park

Las Baulas National Marine Park (Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas) protects one of the most important nesting beaches for the giant leatherback sea turtle in the world. Playa Grande, within the park, sees hundreds of leatherbacks come ashore to nest between October and March.

By Plane

Daniel Oduber International (LIR) in Liberia, about 80 km southwest (1.5 hours).

By Train

Costa Rica has no passenger rail service to this area.

By Car / Road

From Tamarindo, cross the estuary by boat to reach Playa Grande. From Liberia, about 80 km.

Walking on the beach. No vehicles on nesting beach. Guided night tours only during nesting season.

• Leatherback turtle nesting — Giant turtles (up to 2m long) nest Oct-Mar

• Playa Grande — Pristine beach protected for wildlife

• Estuary ecosystem — Mangrove-lined waterway with diverse birdlife

• Guided nighttime turtle watching tours (Oct-Mar, limited to small groups)

• Surfing at Playa Grande (consistent waves)

• Estuary boat tours

• Birdwatching in mangroves

Restaurants in Playa Grande village and Tamarindo.

Bars in Playa Grande and Tamarindo.

• Mid-range: Hotels in Playa Grande US$80-150/night
• Upscale: JW Marriott Guanacaste nearby US$300+/night

None in the park. Shops in Tamarindo across the estuary.

• Tamarindo — 1 km across estuary, surf and nightlife
• Playa Flamingo — 15 km north
• Liberia — 80 km northeast