Whale Watching Costa Rica Spectacular Wildlife

 

Sandy, bare-feet sloshed over the muddy coastland. Hands were gently held one-by-one as we were assisted onto a small boat. Then, sitting squarely on individual blue seats, the engine ignited and thrust the boat full of eager faces over the breakers and into open waters.

The bright blue ocean lapping in stark contrast against the rugged ginger cliffs elicited a lull over the entire group as we earnestly began our quest for the day: spotting a majestic Humpback whale.

 

Bahia Island Costa Rica

 

We were heading out into the ocean in mid-October; we were told the whale migration season would culminate in just a couple of weeks, which left many with doubts that we would find anything hiding beneath the vast waters. But of course, only moments into our voyage, we got the call that a Humpback had been spotted just offshore.

Our boat raced to the far ends of the Marino Ballena National Park and within moments spotted a few other tour groups bobbing in the water—a promising sign that there was something worth waiting for. We approached slowly; the boat motor turned off and cameras ready to capture the once-in-a-lifetime sighting. Sure enough, after only a few moments more, we caught the first signs of a graceful mother Humpback swimming with her calf.

 

Costa Rica has been called one of the best places to observe Humpback whales in the world. 

 

Due to their migration patterns, Humpbacks pass Costa Rican shores twice each year. We lingered with the whales for quite some time, taking in the profound size and beauty of the creatures that were voluntarily coming just meters away from our boat.

 

Baby Humpback Whale Costa Rica

 

Seeing such impressive creatures up close is a profoundly enriching experience everyone should have at least once in their life, and the beauty of the Marino Ballena National Park, one of the best spots in all of Coastal Ballena, makes for the perfect place to do it. 

There are countless tour operators who will take you out on a boating and whale watching adventure, but it is important to do a bit of research first to ensure that the guides do all they can to respect and preserve the fragile natural habitat.

 

Natural Window Costa Rica

 

For our whale watching tour, we chose to go with Bahia Aventuras. We would definitely recommend them to visitors keen on whale watching in Costa Rica for the following reasons:

 

1. Total professionalism of the staff and guides

 

From the very beginning, the staff of Bahia Aventuras struck us with their level of professionalism. Our tour guide met us at our car as soon as we pulled up and asked if we preferred Spanish or English. He then guided us to the welcome room where we were given some beginning instructions and life-jackets. Our guide was sure to pause and clearly explain directions before each new step.

Additional details that were appreciated were the water bottles and fresh fruit provided along the way. Our guide also doubled as a naturalist, and his knowledge was evident with each word he said. As we went along, he added interesting facts about the natural features of the island, as well as the various birds and wildlife we came in contact with. It made all the difference to have such an insightful guide, and we found this key aspect made the experience all the more memorable and enriching.

 

2. Whale watching with total respect for the animals

 

There’s a fine line between doing right versus wrong in the commercialization of animals. When done poorly, whale watching can be extremely harmful to wildlife–frightening whales and disrupting their natural habitat. However, when done properly, whale watching is constructive for both the whales and the observers.

When we can learn about and observe animals in their natural habitat, we gain an appreciation and respect for them that will often have far-reaching benefits. We were pleased to see the level of respect Bahia Aventuras maintained for the whales. It was no surprise to learn that Bahia Aventuras actually helped to develop the standards for Responsible Marine Tourism Practices in Costa Rica

 

Whale Watching Costa Rica

Humpback Whale Watching Costa Rica

 

At several points throughout our tour, 4 or 5 boats would be in the area around the whale. Our tour guide would wait off to the side for the crowd to clear before going over to see the whale, so as not to overwhelm it. While this might frustrate some, we were glad to see that Bahia Aventuras upheld the guidelines created in the park to keep the whales safe.

P.S. Want to see more whale watching photos? Check out our experience with humpback whales in Mexico here!

 

Extra Tips For Whale Watching In Costa Rica:

 

1. The best time to see a humpback whale is between July and November, or December through April since humpbacks will be making their migration through the Southern Zone of Costa Rica at this time.

 

2. Make sure to do your research before choosing a tour agency. You will want to make sure they know what they are doing and are kind to the animals.

 

3. Have low expectations! You won’t always see a whale when you go on a tour. Have low expectations to prevent disappointment, and just enjoy the scenic boat ride! The coastline in the Marino Ballena National Park is unique and stunning, with many natural caves and a few islands dotting the shore.

 

4. Bring sunscreen and anti-motion sickness medicine. You’ll want this if you want to enjoy your time on the boat.

 

5. Bring your camera (most tours will provide you with a dry bag to keep this safe) and some good friends or family members to make the day just that much more enjoyable.

 

This whale watching tour is certainly one of the highlights of living in Costa Rica’s Southern Zone. There’s nothing like having an incredible time out on the water. When you add in an up-close encounter with one of the most spectacular creatures on the planet, then you know it will be a day to remember.

 

Blowhole on Bahia Island Costa Rica

 

To Plan Your Whale Watching Adventure In Costa Rica:

Tour Guide We Used: Bahia Aventuras

Price: $90 USD adults; $50 USD children

Depending on weather and the conditions of the water, sometimes it is also possible to spot dolphins and sea turtles, as well as go snorkeling.

 

Have you been on a whale watching tour? If so, where? As always, we’d love to hear your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!

 

We were guests of Bahia Aventuras. As always, all thoughts and opinions are our own. 

 

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