From Puntarenas: Private Isla Tortuga Full-Day All-Inclusive Escape

From Puntarenas: Private Isla Tortuga Full-Day All-Inclusive Escape

Enjoy a full-day private excursion to Isla Tortuga, sailing by boat with the chance to spot dolphins along the way. On the island, practice snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, observe spider monkeys in their natural habitat, and visit the spectacular stone arch for impressive ocean views. Ideal for families or groups of friends seeking fun, nature, and relaxation in a tropical paradise.

4.8
$ 125
7 hours
1.012 + bookings
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Overview

The vibrant marine ecosystem of the Gulf of Nicoya and the secluded volcanic reefs of Isla Tortuga serve as the stage for this 7-hour high-impact private maritime expedition.

Provided by TM Tours, this journey transitions from the upscale Puerto Azul Boutique Resort & Marina to a "VIP" experience designed to avoid the commercial crowds.

You move from the educational discovery of spider monkeys at Negritos Island to an active immersion in a private beach sanctuary, experiencing an environment where Captain Marco and Isabella’s personalized hospitality and a 100/100 rated BBQ lunch define the day's energy.

Because this is a highly exclusive "All Included" tour with a 96% recommendation rate, you should secure your private boat early to ensure a 2026 spot for your group’s tailored island discovery.

What's Included

  • Private Beach Spot (In front of the water)
  • Guided Snorkel Tour (Equipment included)
  • Gourmet BBQ Lunch (Fish/Chicken)
  • Ceviche Appetizer & Afternoon Coffee/Cookies
  • Monkey & Dolphin Watching
  • Alcoholic Beverages (Available for purchase)
  • Souvenirs from island vendors
  • Gratuities (Tips for Capt. Marco & Crew)
  • Professional Photography Service
  • International Travel Insurance

Itinerary

  1. The journey begins at 8:30 AM at the Puerto Azul Boutique Resort. You’ll perform a transition from the private dock to a spacious boat dedicated solely to your group, gaining an initial window into the 2026 landscape of the Puntarenas coastline. After a safety briefing, you’ll head into the Gulf of Nicoya with onboard music and fresh tropical fruits.
  2. The core of the morning involves a 25-minute stop at Negritos Island. You’ll perform a search for spider monkeys while your guide provides a perspective on the island's wildlife refuge status. This is followed by a visit to the Stone Arch, a 300-year-old natural formation sculpted by waves, offering a vertical standard for panoramic photography.
  3. Upon arrival at Isla Tortuga, you’ll perform a 1-hour guided snorkeling tour at a nearby volcanic reef. Following the dive, you’ll have a final opportunity to relax at a private spot reserved specifically for TM Tours, away from the standard 2026 tour groups. Here, a "10/10" BBQ lunch and fresh ceviche are served directly in front of the beach. The session concludes with a return to Puntarenas, arriving back at the marina by 3:30 PM.

Expect a "spectacular," well-paced, and deeply "intimate" immersion into Costa Rica’s island life. The transition from the "standard commercial experience" to a "VIP private circuit" is managed by a team noted for being "warm, outgoing, and incredibly knowledgeable," ensuring that families and small groups feel catered to at all times. The environment is one of monumental exclusivity, where the ability to see dolphins and monkeys from a private deck provides a necessary 2026 refresh. Note that while stroller accessible, this tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Private Isla Tortuga Insider Secrets

  • Embrace the TM Tours philosophy of avoiding the "big boat" crowd; the vertical standard of the 2026 experience is the private beach area, which is a necessity for those wanting tranquility rather than a party-boat atmosphere.

  • Our agency finds that the private beach area reserved for TM Tours guests offers a vertical standard of exclusivity that justifies the higher price point compared to public tours.

  • Watch for the alpha male monkey; the transition from "boat cruise" to "wildlife spotting" is a necessity for understanding the social hierarchy of the island's resident spider monkeys.

  • Save room for the Ceviche Porteño; the vertical standard of the 2026 culinary experience is the fresh, locally-sourced appetizer served on the boat, making it a survival necessity for foodies.

  • Arrive at Puerto Azul by 8:15 AM; the 2026 morning logistics are designed for a prompt 8:30 launch to ensure your group reaches the Stone Arch before the glare of the midday sun affects your photos.

Best Time to Visit

The water clarity and animal activity change throughout the 2026 season.

Season Months The Experience The Trade-off
Crystal Peak Jan – April The best probability of glassy, calm waters for the 1-hour reef snorkel. High interest; as a "VIP" small group tour, we suggest booking your 2026 date at least 2 weeks in advance.
Dolphin Window July – Oct The highest probability of seeing active dolphin pods during the transit. Higher rainfall; the boat is large and covered, making the "all included" luxury a 2026 vertical necessity.
Verdant Bloom Nov – Dec The most "vibrant" vertical standard of green island foliage and active monkey sightings. Humid conditions; utilizing the "Unlimited Soda and Water" provided is a 2026 survival necessity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is alcohol included?

No, but high-quality cocktails and beers are available to purchase separately at the beach.

Is food provided?

Yes, a full BBQ lunch, ceviche, fresh fruit, and afternoon coffee/cookies are 2026 standard inclusions.

Is it private?

Yes—this specific activity is a private tour for just your group, ensuring a 2026 experience tailored to your needs.

Where do we park?

TM Tours provides private on-site parking at Puerto Azul, which is a necessity for self-drivers in 2026.

What should I bring?

Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera are 2026 vertical necessities for the full circuit.

Book it today with Tortuga Costa Rica Tours or simply following this link.

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