Snorkeling in Tamarindo: The Best Snorkel Tour to the Catalina Islands

The water right off Tamarindo Beach is great for surfing, but if you want to see colorful fish, rays and sea turtles, you need to head out by boat. The best snorkeling near Tamarindo is at the Catalina Islands, a group of volcanic islands just off the Guanacaste coast. Here's your complete guide to snorkeling in Tamarindo.

Is there good snorkeling in Tamarindo?

Tamarindo Beach itself is a sandy surf beach with waves and cloudy water, so it isn't a great snorkeling spot. Instead, our Tamarindo snorkeling tour takes you by boat to the Catalina Islands, where calm, clear coves and rocky reefs are full of marine life.

What will I see snorkeling at the Catalina Islands?

• Spotted eagle rays and stingrays

• Sea turtles

• Parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish and moorish idols

• Puffer fish and moray eels

• Dolphins and, in season, humpback whales on the boat ride

What's included in the snorkeling tour

Your guided snorkeling trip includes the boat ride from Tamarindo, snorkel gear, drinks and a crew who dive these islands every day and know exactly where to find the marine life. The guides stay in the water with you, so it's great for beginners and families. Tours meet at our dive center in the heart of Tamarindo at 6:45 AM. Please arrive 15 minutes early so our crew can fit your mask, snorkel, fins and life jacket, then we walk straight down to the boat on Tamarindo Beach.

How much does snorkeling cost in Tamarindo?

Our Catalina Islands snorkeling tour starts from $90 per person, with gear and drinks included.

Best time to go snorkeling in Tamarindo

You can snorkel all year round. The dry season (December to April) brings sunny days and the chance to see larger rays, while the green season can bring calmer seas on many mornings. Morning trips usually have the calmest water and best visibility.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?

You should be comfortable in the water, but life vests are available and the guides stay close by. If you'd like to go deeper, try our Tamarindo scuba diving tour, with no certification needed. Families and kids of all ages are welcome, with a life jacket for every guest plus pool noodles and life rings for extra support.

What to bring

• Swimsuit and towel

• Reef-safe sunscreen

• Hat and sunglasses

• Waterproof phone case or GoPro

Book your Tamarindo snorkel tour

Book directly with Ohana Rental & Tours for a local team that answers you on WhatsApp. Pair it with a sunset catamaran tour for the perfect day on the water. Book your Catalina Islands snorkeling tour here.