Ocean Activities
Explore Golfo Dulce, a Wild Marine Refuge
The Front Door of Nicuesa Lodge leads to the Golfo Dulce's 80-degree blue-green waters. Kayak the Golfo Dulce (sweet gulf) right off our beachfront. Jump in! The water is calm and perfect for swimming. Spend a relaxing hour or a challenging day kayaking or paddle boarding and exploring along the coastline and nearby mangroves. Stop and snorkel along the way! In-shore and off-shore fishing guarantee a fresh fish dinner. From the Golfo Dulce, we can also access several mangrove river habitats and the Pacific Ocean, which lead to various marine environments that make this area unique.
The Golfo Dulce is among the top 10 deepest gulfs in the world and one of only 4 tropical fjords on Earth - making it home to abundant marine life and a unique marine ecosystem. While out on an ocean adventure, be sure to keep an eye out for dolphins and whales! The Golfo Dulce is the only place on the planet visited by both Northern and Southern Humpback whales and their calves.
Golfo Dulce Dolphin Tour & Coastal Adventure
This is a beautiful 4-hour tour of the Golfo Dulce, a spectacular, protected gulf off the Pacific Ocean. You have a great chance to see at least one of the three types of Dolphins most common in the Golfo Dulce (spinner, spotted, and bottlenose). You will spend several hours touring the blue, green waters of the Gulf looking for dolphins, sea turtles and marine birds with one of the Nicuesa's guides and boat captains. You will also stop for a snorkel at one of the area's reefs and/or a secluded beach to swim and enjoy fresh coconut and other snacks.
Costa Rica Kayaking
The Golfo Dulce is a special place to kayak. Travel along the blue/green waters with the dramatic rainforest canopy in the background. Keep your eyes open for dolphins and other marine life swimming by. There are also several nearby rivers where kayaking offers a great chance to paddle into the jungle and see various sea and jungle birds that live there. This safe paddling area is ideal for beginners to spend a relaxing hour paddling or for the experienced and adventurous to spend a challenging day exploring the coastline and nearby mangroves. Ocean kayaks are available for all guests to use near the lodge at no charge. We also offer guided kayaking adventures to other parts of the gulf.
Paddle Boarding
Explore the tranquil waters of Golfo Dulce on a paddleboarding adventure at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge. Glide across the calm bay, surrounded by stunning rainforest scenery, as you encounter dolphins, sea turtles, and an array of tropical birds. Paddleboarding offers a peaceful and immersive way to experience the natural beauty and rich marine life of Costa Rica's pristine coastline.
Swimming
Enjoy the calm waters of the Golfo Dulce right off the dock or kayak to a private beach. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Golfo Dulce for a refreshing and serene swimming experience. Surrounded by the lush rainforest and vibrant wildlife, the calm and warm waters offer the perfect setting to relax, explore, and enjoy the natural beauty of Costa Rica's hidden paradise. Whether you're swimming near the shore or taking in the stunning coastal views, Golfo Dulce provides a peaceful escape for all water lovers.
Snorkel Off a Boat, Kayak, or Dock
Snorkeling at Playa Nicuesa Lodge offers a firsthand glimpse into the incredible biodiversity of Golfo Dulce. Dive beneath the surface with a self-guided snorkel excursion to discover vibrant coral reefs, schools of colorful fish, and the occasional sea turtle or ray, all thriving in this protected marine habitat. The calm, clear waters make it easy to explore the underwater world and appreciate the stunning array of marine life that makes this area a true ecological treasure.
Sunset Boat Tour
Relax and sip a cocktail while tooling around the gulf, watching the sunset over the mountains. As the sun begins to set over the stunning backdrop of the Golfo Dulce, guests are treated to a breathtaking display of colors reflected in the tranquil waters. The boat gently glides along the coastline, allowing you to soak in the peaceful surroundings and spot local wildlife such as dolphins, seabirds, and even sea turtles.
River Tour
Spend the day exploring a pristine river ecosystem in one of the most untouched regions in the world in Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula. Our guide will describe the interesting bird and, marine life, and vegetation of the Rio Esquinas as we wind through the river that flows between the Golfo Dulce and inland jungles.
Paddle Board Tour
Paddle along the dramatic shoreline of the calm waters of the Golfo Dulce. Explore secluded beaches. Keep a look out for wildlife, dolphins, and turtles. This peaceful tour allows you to get up close to marine life, including rays, sea turtles, and vibrant tropical fish, all while enjoying the serene sounds of nature.
Whale Watching Tour (In Season)
Whale watching tours at Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge offer an extraordinary experience for nature lovers. Situated in the Golfo Dulce, one of the few tropical fjords in the world, the lodge provides a prime location to witness the majestic humpback whales during their migration season. Guests can embark on boat tours that bring them up close to these gentle giants, as they breach and play in the warm, calm waters.