Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour from Manuel Antonio
Paddle the Pacific past tiny islands and seabird nesting grounds to hidden Biesanz Bay, then snorkel a quiet reef of parrotfish, starfish and angelfish, capped by a homemade Costa Rican meal back at base.
The Experience
Sea kayaking & reef snorkeling on the Pacific coast
This ocean kayaking and snorkeling tour from Manuel Antonio is one of the most scenic ways to experience Costa Rica's Central Pacific coastline. You'll paddle your kayak for a little over an hour, gliding past tiny offshore islands while spotting marine birds and their nesting grounds, before reaching Biesanz Bay, a hidden, beautiful inlet where you can rest, enjoy a snack and slip into the water to snorkel.
During the roughly 30-minute snorkel stop you'll explore the coastline and reef. Water visibility varies with the season, but there are good chances to spot parrotfish, starfish and angelfish, and maybe even a sea turtle. When it's time to head back, you'll paddle to the pier watching for pelicans, flying fish and other marine life along the way. Back at base camp, the adventure winds down over conversation and a delicious homemade meal.
Easier than river kayaking, this Manuel Antonio sea kayak tour requires no previous experience, just a moderate level of fitness. Kayaks are available for one or two passengers, so couples and families can paddle together. Prefer calmer mangrove water? Try our Isla Damas mangrove kayak tour, or pair this with a guided Manuel Antonio National Park visit.
Details
What's included on your ocean kayaking tour
Included
- Door-to-door hotel pickup & transport
- Professional bilingual guide
- Single or tandem ocean kayak
- Snorkel mask, life jacket & gear
- Homemade lunch or dinner
- Beverages & snack at Biesanz Bay
Not included
- 13% Costa Rica VAT (at checkout)
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
What to bring: suntan lotion, sunglasses with a retainer cord, a camera, a hat or visor and a beach towel. Children must be at least 8 years old, and a minimum of 2 guests is required to run the tour. From May to December only morning departures are available due to weather conditions; the 2:00pm departure runs January through April.
Gallery
On the water near Manuel Antonio
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
No previous experience is required. This ocean kayak tour is easier than river kayaking, and your bilingual guide gives a full briefing before you launch. You should be comfortable in the water and in reasonable physical condition, since you'll paddle for a little over an hour each way, we rate it Moderate to High difficulty.
The 30-minute snorkel stop at Biesanz Bay typically reveals parrotfish, starfish and angelfish, and you may even spot a sea turtle. Water visibility varies with the season, so it changes day to day. On the paddle you'll also watch for pelicans, flying fish and seabirds along the coast.
There's an 8:00am departure every day year-round, plus a 2:00pm departure from January through April. From May to December only the morning tour runs due to weather and ocean conditions. The full experience lasts approximately 4 hours including transport.
Children must be at least 8 years old, and a minimum of 2 guests is required to run the tour. Kayaks seat one or two passengers, so couples and families can share. Solo travelers are welcome to contact us to check availability on existing departures.
We provide door-to-door pickup from your hotel or rental in the Manuel Antonio and Quepos area. After booking you'll receive your exact pickup time, then we transport you to the launch point and back to base camp for your meal.
Yes. Beverages and a snack are provided during the rest stop at Biesanz Bay, and a delicious homemade lunch or dinner is served back at base camp depending on your departure time. Transportation to and from your hotel is also included.
Plan your trip
From the Tucanes blog
Best Adventure Tours Near Manuel Antonio & Jacó
Kayaking, rafting, horseback & more, the Central Pacific bucket list.
Snorkeling in Manuel Antonio: What You'll See & When to Go
Reef fish, sea turtles and the best months for clear Pacific water.
Ultimate Travel Guide to Quepos & Manuel Antonio
Where to stay, eat and play around Costa Rica's Central Pacific.
New to the sport? The American Canoe Association has helpful beginner sea-kayaking safety tips.
Ready to hit the water?
Book now, pay later, no deposit. Live availability connects via Rezdy.
Book, From $89Prefer just your group? Take this tour private →
