
Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park
Traveler rating
4.3/5
Based on 61 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park worth booking?
Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park is a 3-hour experience in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, from $75 per person. It scores 59 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.3/5 rating across 61 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 59 / 100
- Rating
- 4.3/5 (61)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $75 per person
Capitan Island, the only island within Las Baulas National Park and created by a volcanic eruption, is a great place to explore! Don’t let it’s small size deceive you; it’s full of natural wonders for you to enjoy!
What you get
About this experience
Capitan Island, the only island within Las Baulas National Park and created by a volcanic eruption, is a great place to explore! Don’t let it’s small size deceive you; it’s full of natural wonders for you to enjoy!
What's included
Included
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Dry bags to protect your valuables
- Kayaks (double, single and triple) with comfortable back rest and life jackets
Not included
- Gratuity
What you'll see and do
Las Baulas National Marine Park
We’ll meet on Playa Tamarindo, directly in-front of El Chiringuito Restaurant, where rest rooms are available. We’ll cover some important safety information and correct kayaking technique, before paddling approximately 25 minutes across the ocean. Once reaching the island we’ll land on white sands to explore the lava fields and rock formations caused by a volcanic eruption, and different vegetation; including cactuses and Agave. We’ll visit a unique beach where a great variety of shells can be found. Within the vegetation we’ll also observe a variety of wildlife; different crab species and nesting birds. In the clear water tide pools we’ll see sea urchins, brittle star fish, sea cucumbers, trilobites and fish. There are a couple of blow holes and other interesting things. The island is surrounded by clear waters, perfect for snorkling! We’ll stop at a couple of different points to seek out fish and other marine wildlife, before breaking for some refreshing fruit and snacks and heading back by kayak to Tamarindo Beach.
180 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Tamarindo
We'll meet on the beach, directly in-front of El Chiringuito Restaurant
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
We'll meet on the beach, directly in-front of El Chiringuito Restaurant
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Sol Eco Adventures
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 61 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Good for families
5 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Physical effort
2 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Traveler reviews
61 verified traveler reviews for Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Fun experience. Learned a lot about the island
Luis was very knowledgeable. It was a great way to spend a couple of hours in the water near Tamerindo.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much, i an very happy you enjoyed the tour. I also had a great time with you. Luis Blessings!
via Tripadvisor
Know before you go…
We were torn on what to say here. Once on the island, there is lots to see and it was a really neat experience. It was cool to see creatures scurry from overturned rocks, and view the fish, sea urchins and crabs in the tidal pools. Wouldn’t recommend for little kids or weak swimmers. Know that getting to the island means paddling through the surf and waves which can roll you out of the boat. Additionally, there could be a cross wind taking you away from shore. The guide helps launch each boat and that means first ones out wait for the others. You are navigating the waves and power boats coming to shore to shuttle people to other boats. We didn’t have confidence that our guide would be able to rescue anyone from a life guard perspective. Snorkeling involved walking into the water on slippery big rocks to get deep enough to swim. Make sure you bring thick sole water shoes. Once deep enough guide will swap water shoes for flippers and snorkel gear. Guide stayed on shore while we snorkeled in a cove. We didn’t see colorful fish swimming in the rocks. Suggest bringing a mini bottle of (Dawn) dish soap to apply a drop to the mask glass for anti fogging, as well as clean snorkel mouthpiece. The island is largely the remains of volcanic lava, which means uneven, porous, and sharp rock. It will shred bare feet. Consider bringing a first aid kit for the dry bag—any slip or fall could mean an infected cut. We could tell guide was tired of making the trip 2x day for many years. We liked what we saw on and around island, but things could go wrong if you aren’t fit or have small kids.
Response from the operator: Thank you very the review, good advice and description There is always the possibility of something going wrong. Even at home you can have accidentes or driving your car, or eating at a restaurante. Rather than writing about all the the negative/ bad things that may happen, i ll rather focus on the good/ positive aspects of activities and enjoy the moment! We do have a first aid kit, and defogger. Thanks
via Tripadvisor
Good family trip - kayaking in the estuary. Recommend Luis and Sol Eco Adventures.
Enjoyed the trip and Luis was not only a good guide he also was a naturalist, telling us and pointing out plants, etc. that we would not have picked up on. Additionally, he was thinking more about our experience as he suggested we push out a few days due to winds in the area. I thought this was great, he was thinking more about our experience than his revenue.
Response from the operator: Wow! Thanks so much for your wonderful review. It was very enjoyable to show you the beauty and wildliee on capitán island, i was a delighted to spend time with you. i hope you ll return soon, Blessings! Luis
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful experience
Really enjoyed the kayaking and snorkel tour with Luis. He was a great guide that entertained my family and our friends. We were the only ones on the island on a busy weekend day.
Response from the operator: Nice to read your great review. Very much apreciated and thanks for your wonderful company. Best wishes and i hope we shall meet again soon. Blessings! Luis
via Tripadvisor
Secluded experience in tamarindo
Luis was a fantastic guide. We thoroughly enjoyed an afternoon Kayak and snorkeling though the hike around the island learning about the history and wildlife (interjected with Luis’ humor) was the highlight for me. Definitely a unique experience and we had the island to ourselves. Highly recommend!
Response from the operator: Wow i loved your review, thanks so much, it was great fun to spend time with you. I hooe you'll be back soon . Best wishes! Blessings! Luis
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 21
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Sol Eco Adventures, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 63.0.
See everything Sol Eco Adventures runsWhy this scores 59
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Tamarindo.
How much does Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park cost?
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Prices start at $75 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Tamarindo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Tamarindo is not rushed.
Is Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 59 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.3/5 across 61 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Tamarindo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park?
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Around 21 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Tamarindo can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Tamarindo and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Tamarindo within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Tamarindo?
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On Outty we rank every Tamarindo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Surf Lesson in Tamarindo - Stand Up or Your Money Back!, Sunset Catamaran & Snorkeling Tour in Playa Flamingo, Fundive Catalina Islands (2 dives, only for certified divers). The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Tamarindo?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Tamarindo?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park?
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Included: Bottled water; Snacks; Use of snorkeling equipment; Dry bags to protect your valuables; and Kayaks (double, single and triple) with comfortable back rest and life jackets. Not included: Gratuity. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park?
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We'll meet on the beach, directly in-front of El Chiringuito Restaurant Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Kayak and Snorkelling trip to Capitan Island; part of Las Baulas National Park?
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Across 61 reviews averaging 4.3 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, good for families. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
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