Las Baulas estuary
A mangrove paddled by kayak among crocodiles, howler monkeys and herons.
Duration
3 hrs – 4 hrs
Best time
On a rising tide, early morning
Open
Every day
Entry price
To confirm
The Tamarindo estuary is edged by one of the best-preserved mangroves on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, holding all five of the country's mangrove species. Mangrove is a nursery: the stilt roots shelter juvenile fish and crustaceans that will later populate the open sea.
You go up it by kayak on a rising tide, which saves paddling against the current. You see American crocodiles, howler monkeys in the canopy, crab-eating raccoons and a high density of wading birds. The silence of a kayak is what lets you get close.
Getting there
Departures from the estuary at the northern end of Tamarindo beach. Guided kayak trips.
What the price covers
a paid guided kayak or boat trip, price depends on the operator
What to bring
- Swimsuit
- Dry bag
Rules on site
American crocodiles live in the estuary: do not put a hand or foot in the water, and do not swim across — there have been fatal accidents. The ferry boat to Playa Grande is the only safe crossing.