The Catalina Islands, located off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica near Playa Flamingo, are a
world-renowned destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. These volcanic rock formations rise
dramatically from the ocean and are surrounded by rich marine life, making them a must-visit for
underwater enthusiasts.
Divers can encounter manta rays, white-tip reef sharks, turtles, and colorful schools of tropical fish.
The islands themselves are uninhabited and protected, offering visitors a pristine marine
experience just a short boat ride away from the mainland.
- Scuba Diving 🤿: Explore coral reefs 🐠 and volcanic rock formations 🪨 underwater 🌊. 💧
- Snorkeling 🏊: Ideal for spotting 🔎 tropical fish 🐟 near the surface ✨. 🐡
- Marine Life 🐋: Encounter manta rays 🐬, turtles 🐢, dolphins 🐳, and sharks 🦈. 🌊
- Boat Tours 🛥️: Enjoy a scenic cruise 📸 with ocean views 🌅. ⛵
- Photography 📷: Capture stunning seascapes 🏝️ and marine moments 🐠. 📸
- From Playa Flamingo 🏖️: 20–30 minutes ⏱️ by boat 🚤. 🛥️
- From Tamarindo 🏘️: About 45 minutes 🚗 by car 🚘 to Flamingo 📍, then 20 minutes ⏱️ by boat ⛵. 🌊
- From Liberia International Airport ✈️: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes ⏳ by car 🚕 to Flamingo 🗺️. 🛬
- Book diving 🤿 or snorkeling tours 🎟️ in advance 📅, especially in peak season 📈. 🛎️
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen 🧴 and motion sickness tablets 💊. 🤢
- Always follow 🙏 your dive guide’s 🧑🤝🧑 instructions 🗣️ for safety ⛑️. ⚠️
- Non-divers 🚫 can join sightseeing 👀 or snorkeling tours 🐠. ✅
- 7:30 AM – Depart 🛥️ from Playa Flamingo marina 📍. ⚓
- 8:30 AM – First dive 🤿 or snorkeling session 🏊 at Catalina Islands 🏝️. 🐠
- 10:30 AM – Short break 🍎 and refreshments 🍹 on the boat 🚤. ☕
- 12:00 PM – Second dive 🤿 or snorkel 🏊 in a new location 🗺️. 🐟
- 2:00 PM – Return ⛵ to Playa Flamingo 🏖️ for lunch 🍽️ and relaxation 😌. 🌮
