Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Costa Rica

(Private Gulf of Papagayo Whale Watching Charters From Four Seasons, Playa Hermosa, Playa Panama, Ocotal, & Playas del Coco)

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Tour Description

Whale watching in Costa Rica is one of the most unique adventures you can experience in the Gulf of Papagayo. In fact, we think whale watching in Costa Rica should be on everyone's vacation bucket list. The humpback whales in the Gulf of Papagayo are not the only attraction, however. You can spot dolphins playing in the wake of the boat, the beautiful but deadly Orcas hunting prey, manta rays flying across the surface of the ocean and maybe a gentle sea turtle or two. Sound like an amazing adventure in Costa Rica? Well, here’s your chance to experience Costa Rica whale watching in Guanacaste for yourself. Just grab up to 7 of your best friends, book your Private Dolphin & Whale Watching charter, and get out on the water!

Our dolphin and whale watching charters are all private, so we can meet you right at your hotel or nearby beach if they have the proper permits. From there, we will load up in the dinghy and take you out to the comfortable and shaded boat of your choice. We have a cooler on board with snacks and refreshments, as well as a few beers and a bottle of white wine. Once you are comfortable on board, we will head out of the Gulf of Papagayo into the Pacific Ocean to seek out whales, dolphins, and other marine mammals that reside here in Costa Rica. The captains know all the hot spots where the whales and dolphins can be found. And, your naturalist guide will be able to tell you all about the whale migration and their habits as you witness them teaching their young to swim, males seeking the attention of the females, and if you are lucky, breaching!

Depending on what time of year you visit, we’ll encounter different species of marine life. But you can expect to see the adorable and playful bottle-nose dolphins all year round. The whale watching season in Costa Rica is unique as you have 2 different migrations of whales coming from both the North and South. The best time to see whales is between January-March and then again in July-November. This is when we can spot the majestic humpback whales as they make their annual pilgrimage to and from their breeding grounds.

After a couple of hours seeking out whales and dolphins, we'll take a break to enjoy some snacks and relax on one of the many hidden beaches you can find in the Gulf of Papagayo. Take a walk on the white sandy beaches, explore the natural caves, or just chill and relax on the beach and enjoy the warm sunshine and cool waves. The perfect ending to the perfect whale watching tour in Costa Rica!

Our Costa Rica whale watching & dolphin spotting tour is the perfect way to experience the best Papagayo has to offer. When you book with The Real Deal Tours you can be sure you are getting the best deals in Cost Rica too! So don't miss out on this experience of a lifetime, book your Private Dolphin & Whale Watching tour in Costa Rica online today!

Reserve Your Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Costa Rica Now

We have 5 different boats to choose from for all travel styles and budgets. Our smaller adventure boats hold between 6 to 8 pax and are perfect for Papagayo Dolphin & Whale Watching excursions. Just click on the tabs below for a little more info about each boat. If you are searching for whale watching trip on a larger yacht, take a look at our Family Fun Day on the Ocean & Beach Break Options.

La Guapa Raccon Seafari Joy Ride Game On

La Guapa is a 28' Panga with a new 150 hp Yamaha engine. It has comfortable benches with cushions and a special roof rack that doubles as shade and also board storage for all the water toys we plan to bring along. There is even a freshwater shower on board to rinse after your fun in the sun. This boat is also equipped with outriggers, fish finder & GPS for those that want to try to catch some fish. Don't forget your smart phone! You can hook up your own favorite tunes to our stereo.
Private Dolphin & Whale Watching in Costa Rica Tour Details

Private Papagayo Whale Watching Charter Includes:
- * Transportation from the beach in Playas del Coco, or the pier of your hotel if available
- * Private boat charter, the capacity depending on boat
- * Bottled water and beverages
- * Beer, white wine, or your choice of liquor
- * Snacks: fruits, nuts, guacamole, bacon-cheddar dip, chips
- * 3 hours of whale watching in the Gulf of Papagayo and the Pacific Coast of Guanacaste
- * 1 hour to explore Papagayo's hidden beaches
- * Snorkeling equipment
Departures: Dolphin & whale watching charters depart 2 times daily at 8:00 am and 2:00 pm from the beach at Playas del Coco, or from the pier or beach of your hotel. Exact meeting times and instructions will be provided on your confirmation voucher.

Length: Approximately 4 hours.

Private Papagayo Whale Watching Charter Recommendations:
- * Swimwear & towel if you would like to snorkel
- * Beach sandals
- * Eco-friendly sun screen or sun protective clothing
- * Sunhat and sunglasses
- * Camera
- * Binoculars if you have them
- * Cash for balance, tips for your guides, and any incidentals you wish to purchase
Children: Dolphin and whale watching in Costa Rica is fun for the whole family. All ages are welcome. We have life vests on board, but if you have one for your child you may want to bring it on board. Let us know the ages of your children and we can advise if we have the appropriately sized life vest available.

Restrictions: Playas del Coco beach and some of the surrounding hotel beaches have no pier, so you will need to be able to enter and exit the boat from the shore, or a dinghy from the shore to the boat. So you must have the mobility necessary to climb in and out of the boat with minimal assistance.

Insider Tip: Whale watching in Guanacaste is best between December and March, and then again between July and October. For the rest of the year, you can seek out dolphins, or add a variety of water activates on our Fun Day at the Ocean boat charter instead.

Important Note About Whale Watching Season in Guanacaste: Whales can be found in Guanacaste, Costa Rica 2 different times of year. Between July and October you have whales from the Southern Hemisphere. Between January & March you will find whales from the Northern Hemisphere. This is a private boat tour customized to spend more time seeking out whales and dolphins rather than snorkeling. But please keep in mind, there is no hydrophone on board, and these are not biologist guides or anything with you. But they are captain and mate that have been in this region for decades, so they know where to find marine life.

** PLEASE NOTE: Due to the strictly enforced sales tax law that has been introduced in Costa Rica, sales tax may be added to the final payment made to the operator. Sales tax is already included in the deposit amount.

About Your Online Reservation: Booking online does not guarantee that spaces are available and your reservation is confirmed. Our reservation offices are open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm CST daily and we do our best to confirm your reservation and send your confirmed voucher with meeting instructions within 24 hours. If you are booking a tour in less than 24 hours in advance, we recommend you contact us to check availability for you.
La Guapa Boat:

Retail: ~~$550.00~~

The Real Deal: $515.00

Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Costa Rica deposit is $75.00 per Trip.
.
(The balance of $440.00 per boat in cash must be paid the day of the tour)

This tour departs at 8:00 AM.
Racoon is a 25' Costa constructed in Costa Rica by Boston Whaler. This boat has comfortable bench seating around the outside and a convertible shade top to protect you from the sun, or let you soak in the rays. The powerful 250 hp engine is perfect for tubing, water skiing and wakeboarding. There is also a Garmin GPS, fish finder & outriggers for those who wish to throw out a line. And there is plenty of space to store a couple of SUP or Surf boards too. Bring your own tunes, the Racoon is smart phone compatible too!
Private Dolphin & Whale Watching in Costa Rica Tour Details

Private Papagayo Whale Watching Charter Includes:
- * Transportation from the beach in Playas del Coco, or the pier of your hotel if available
- * Private boat charter, the capacity depending on boat
- * Bottled water and beverages
- * Beer, white wine, or your choice of liquor
- * Snacks: fruits, nuts, guacamole, bacon-cheddar dip, chips
- * 3 hours of whale watching in the Gulf of Papagayo and the Pacific Coast of Guanacaste
- * 1 hour to explore Papagayo's hidden beaches
- * Snorkeling equipment
Departures: Dolphin & whale watching charters depart 2 times daily at 8:00 am and 2:00 pm from the beach at Playas del Coco, or from the pier or beach of your hotel. Exact meeting times and instructions will be provided on your confirmation voucher.

Length: Approximately 4 hours.

Private Papagayo Whale Watching Charter Recommendations:
- * Swimwear & towel if you would like to snorkel
- * Beach sandals
- * Eco-friendly sun screen or sun protective clothing
- * Sunhat and sunglasses
- * Camera
- * Binoculars if you have them
- * Cash for balance, tips for your guides, and any incidentals you wish to purchase
Children: Dolphin and whale watching in Costa Rica is fun for the whole family. All ages are welcome. We have life vests on board, but if you have one for your child you may want to bring it on board. Let us know the ages of your children and we can advise if we have the appropriately sized life vest available.

Restrictions: Playas del Coco beach and some of the surrounding hotel beaches have no pier, so you will need to be able to enter and exit the boat from the shore, or a dinghy from the shore to the boat. So you must have the mobility necessary to climb in and out of the boat with minimal assistance.

Insider Tip: Whale watching in Guanacaste is best between December and March, and then again between July and October. For the rest of the year, you can seek out dolphins, or add a variety of water activates on our Fun Day at the Ocean boat charter instead.

Important Note About Whale Watching Season in Guanacaste: Whales can be found in Guanacaste, Costa Rica 2 different times of year. Between July and October you have whales from the Southern Hemisphere. Between January & March you will find whales from the Northern Hemisphere. This is a private boat tour customized to spend more time seeking out whales and dolphins rather than snorkeling. But please keep in mind, there is no hydrophone on board, and these are not biologist guides or anything with you. But they are captain and mate that have been in this region for decades, so they know where to find marine life.

** PLEASE NOTE: Due to the strictly enforced sales tax law that has been introduced in Costa Rica, sales tax may be added to the final payment made to the operator. Sales tax is already included in the deposit amount.

About Your Online Reservation: Booking online does not guarantee that spaces are available and your reservation is confirmed. Our reservation offices are open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm CST daily and we do our best to confirm your reservation and send your confirmed voucher with meeting instructions within 24 hours. If you are booking a tour in less than 24 hours in advance, we recommend you contact us to check availability for you.
Raccoon Boat:

Retail: ~~$650.00~~

The Real Deal: $620.00

Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Costa Rica deposit is $100.00 per Trip.
.
(The balance of $520.00 per boat in cash must be paid the day of the tour)

This tour departs at two different times.
Seafari is a 28’ Apex boat with twin 140 hp engines and holds up to 8 pax comfortably. The Apex also has a second level which provides excellent options for wildlife viewing and seeking out fish. The second level provides a great shaded area below as well. Seating on the main deck is cushioned bench seating around the bow. Maneuverability and no slip sides makes this one of our favorite boats for whale watching. There is even a small bathroom on board. We like this one best for wildlife viewing, but the second level is also great for spotting the swell for surf trips.
Private Dolphin & Whale Watching in Costa Rica Tour Details

Private Papagayo Whale Watching Charter Includes:
- * Transportation from the beach in Playas del Coco, or the pier of your hotel if available
- * Private boat charter, the capacity depending on boat
- * Bottled water and beverages
- * Beer, white wine, or your choice of liquor
- * Snacks: fruits, nuts, guacamole, bacon-cheddar dip, chips
- * 3 hours of whale watching in the Gulf of Papagayo and the Pacific Coast of Guanacaste
- * 1 hour to explore Papagayo's hidden beaches
- * Snorkeling equipment
Departures: Dolphin & whale watching charters depart 2 times daily at 8:00 am and 2:00 pm from the beach at Playas del Coco, or from the pier or beach of your hotel. Exact meeting times and instructions will be provided on your confirmation voucher.

Length: Approximately 4 hours.

Private Papagayo Whale Watching Charter Recommendations:
- * Swimwear & towel if you would like to snorkel
- * Beach sandals
- * Eco-friendly sun screen or sun protective clothing
- * Sunhat and sunglasses
- * Camera
- * Binoculars if you have them
- * Cash for balance, tips for your guides, and any incidentals you wish to purchase
Children: Dolphin and whale watching in Costa Rica is fun for the whole family. All ages are welcome. We have life vests on board, but if you have one for your child you may want to bring it on board. Let us know the ages of your children and we can advise if we have the appropriately sized life vest available.

Restrictions: Playas del Coco beach and some of the surrounding hotel beaches have no pier, so you will need to be able to enter and exit the boat from the shore, or a dinghy from the shore to the boat. So you must have the mobility necessary to climb in and out of the boat with minimal assistance.

Insider Tip: Whale watching in Guanacaste is best between December and March, and then again between July and October. For the rest of the year, you can seek out dolphins, or add a variety of water activates on our Fun Day at the Ocean boat charter instead.

Important Note About Whale Watching Season in Guanacaste: Whales can be found in Guanacaste, Costa Rica 2 different times of year. Between July and October you have whales from the Southern Hemisphere. Between January & March you will find whales from the Northern Hemisphere. This is a private boat tour customized to spend more time seeking out whales and dolphins rather than snorkeling. But please keep in mind, there is no hydrophone on board, and these are not biologist guides or anything with you. But they are captain and mate that have been in this region for decades, so they know where to find marine life.

** PLEASE NOTE: Due to the strictly enforced sales tax law that has been introduced in Costa Rica, sales tax may be added to the final payment made to the operator. Sales tax is already included in the deposit amount.

About Your Online Reservation: Booking online does not guarantee that spaces are available and your reservation is confirmed. Our reservation offices are open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm CST daily and we do our best to confirm your reservation and send your confirmed voucher with meeting instructions within 24 hours. If you are booking a tour in less than 24 hours in advance, we recommend you contact us to check availability for you.
Seafari Boat:

Retail: ~~$930.00~~

he Real Deal: $869.00

Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour deposit is $125.00 per up to 8 passengers.
(The balance of $744.00 per Boat in cash must be paid the day of the tour)

This tour departs at two different times.
Joy Ride is a 28' Mako powered by twin 250 hp Yamaha engines and comfortably sits up to 8 guests on nicely cushioned seats. It has a walk around layout for perfect marine life viewing from all sides, great shade in the back, a sun deck in the front and a small cabin in case you need to put the kiddos down for a nap. Joy Ride is primarily set up for fishing charters, but is a great choice for families with young ones who need extras like bathroom and showers. With the twin engines, you can really move around the Gulf of Papagayo and explore all the beaches, small caves, and even into the mangroves in just a short time. Bring your own tunes, the Joy Ride is smart phone compatible too!
Private Dolphin & Whale Watching in Costa Rica Tour Details

Private Papagayo Whale Watching Charter Includes:
- * Transportation from the beach in Playas del Coco, or the pier of your hotel if available
- * Private boat charter, the capacity depending on boat
- * Bottled water and beverages
- * Beer, white wine, or your choice of liquor
- * Snacks: fruits, nuts, guacamole, bacon-cheddar dip, chips
- * 3 hours of whale watching in the Gulf of Papagayo and the Pacific Coast of Guanacaste
- * 1 hour to explore Papagayo's hidden beaches
- * Snorkeling equipment
Departures: Dolphin & whale watching charters depart 2 times daily at 8:00 am and 2:00 pm from the beach at Playas del Coco, or from the pier or beach of your hotel. Exact meeting times and instructions will be provided on your confirmation voucher.

Length: Approximately 4 hours.

Private Papagayo Whale Watching Charter Recommendations:
- * Swimwear & towel if you would like to snorkel
- * Beach sandals
- * Eco-friendly sun screen or sun protective clothing
- * Sunhat and sunglasses
- * Camera
- * Binoculars if you have them
- * Cash for balance, tips for your guides, and any incidentals you wish to purchase
Children: Dolphin and whale watching in Costa Rica is fun for the whole family. All ages are welcome. We have life vests on board, but if you have one for your child you may want to bring it on board. Let us know the ages of your children and we can advise if we have the appropriately sized life vest available.

Restrictions: Playas del Coco beach and some of the surrounding hotel beaches have no pier, so you will need to be able to enter and exit the boat from the shore, or a dinghy from the shore to the boat. So you must have the mobility necessary to climb in and out of the boat with minimal assistance.

Insider Tip: Whale watching in Guanacaste is best between December and March, and then again between July and October. For the rest of the year, you can seek out dolphins, or add a variety of water activates on our Fun Day at the Ocean boat charter instead.

Important Note About Whale Watching Season in Guanacaste: Whales can be found in Guanacaste, Costa Rica 2 different times of year. Between July and October you have whales from the Southern Hemisphere. Between January & March you will find whales from the Northern Hemisphere. This is a private boat tour customized to spend more time seeking out whales and dolphins rather than snorkeling. But please keep in mind, there is no hydrophone on board, and these are not biologist guides or anything with you. But they are captain and mate that have been in this region for decades, so they know where to find marine life.

** PLEASE NOTE: Due to the strictly enforced sales tax law that has been introduced in Costa Rica, sales tax may be added to the final payment made to the operator. Sales tax is already included in the deposit amount.

About Your Online Reservation: Booking online does not guarantee that spaces are available and your reservation is confirmed. Our reservation offices are open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm CST daily and we do our best to confirm your reservation and send your confirmed voucher with meeting instructions within 24 hours. If you are booking a tour in less than 24 hours in advance, we recommend you contact us to check availability for you.
Joy Ride Boat:

Retail: ~~$1,000.00~~

he Real Deal: $950.00

Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Costa Rica deposit is $150.00 per Trip.
.
(The balance of $800.00 per boat in cash must be paid the day of the tour)

This tour departs at two different times.
Game On is a 32’ Pursuit Sport Fishing charter powered by twin 300HP Suzuki engines. As its name aptly suggests, this boat is set up for fishing primarily with all the top of the line gear and tournament grade equipment, but comfortable for a day outing for up to 8 family and friends. Plenty of shade, a smooth fast ride, comfortable cushioned seating, and of course a great stereo system make this one of our top new charters in Papagayo. Great for snorkeling, viewing marine life, sport fishing and day trips to find the best surf too!
Private Dolphin & Whale Watching in Costa Rica Tour Details

Private Papagayo Whale Watching Charter Includes:
- * Transportation from the beach in Playas del Coco, or the pier of your hotel if available
- * Private boat charter, the capacity depending on boat
- * Bottled water and beverages
- * Beer, white wine, or your choice of liquor
- * Snacks: fruits, nuts, guacamole, bacon-cheddar dip, chips
- * 3 hours of whale watching in the Gulf of Papagayo and the Pacific Coast of Guanacaste
- * 1 hour to explore Papagayo's hidden beaches
- * Snorkeling equipment
Departures: Dolphin & whale watching charters depart 2 times daily at 8:00 am and 2:00 pm from the beach at Playas del Coco, or from the pier or beach of your hotel. Exact meeting times and instructions will be provided on your confirmation voucher.

Length: Approximately 4 hours.

Private Papagayo Whale Watching Charter Recommendations:
- * Swimwear & towel if you would like to snorkel
- * Beach sandals
- * Eco-friendly sun screen or sun protective clothing
- * Sunhat and sunglasses
- * Camera
- * Binoculars if you have them
- * Cash for balance, tips for your guides, and any incidentals you wish to purchase
Children: Dolphin and whale watching in Costa Rica is fun for the whole family. All ages are welcome. We have life vests on board, but if you have one for your child you may want to bring it on board. Let us know the ages of your children and we can advise if we have the appropriately sized life vest available.

Restrictions: Playas del Coco beach and some of the surrounding hotel beaches have no pier, so you will need to be able to enter and exit the boat from the shore, or a dinghy from the shore to the boat. So you must have the mobility necessary to climb in and out of the boat with minimal assistance.

Insider Tip: Whale watching in Guanacaste is best between December and March, and then again between July and October. For the rest of the year, you can seek out dolphins, or add a variety of water activates on our Fun Day at the Ocean boat charter instead.

Important Note About Whale Watching Season in Guanacaste: Whales can be found in Guanacaste, Costa Rica 2 different times of year. Between July and October you have whales from the Southern Hemisphere. Between January & March you will find whales from the Northern Hemisphere. This is a private boat tour customized to spend more time seeking out whales and dolphins rather than snorkeling. But please keep in mind, there is no hydrophone on board, and these are not biologist guides or anything with you. But they are captain and mate that have been in this region for decades, so they know where to find marine life.

** PLEASE NOTE: Due to the strictly enforced sales tax law that has been introduced in Costa Rica, sales tax may be added to the final payment made to the operator. Sales tax is already included in the deposit amount.

About Your Online Reservation: Booking online does not guarantee that spaces are available and your reservation is confirmed. Our reservation offices are open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm CST daily and we do our best to confirm your reservation and send your confirmed voucher with meeting instructions within 24 hours. If you are booking a tour in less than 24 hours in advance, we recommend you contact us to check availability for you.
Game On Boat:

Retail: ~~$1,400.00~~

he Real Deal: $1,320.00

Private Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour in Costa Rica deposit is $200.00 per Trip.
.
(The balance of $1,120.00 per boat in cash must be paid the day of the tour)

This tour departs at two different times.