Isla Tortuga

Isla Tortuga Review

Soft white sand and casually leaning palms fringe this island of tropical dry forest off the southern coast of the Nicoya Peninsula. Sounds heavenly? It would be if there weren't quite so many people. Tours from Jacó, Herradura, San José, Puntarenas, and Montezuma take boatfuls of visitors to drink from coconuts and snorkel around a large rock. You'll see a good number of colorful fish, though in the company of many tourists. But it does make for an easy day trip out to sea. On the boat ride from Playa Tambor or Montezuma you might spot passing dolphins. A 40-minute hiking trail wanders past monkey ladders, strangler figs, bromeliads, orchids, and the fruit-bearing guanabana (soursop) and marañón (cashew) trees up to a lookout point with amazing vistas. Though state owned, the island is leased and inhabited by a Costa Rican family. Day trips here cost $20 to $109, depending on the duration and departure point.