My Costa Rica (CostaRica.Org) is a Travel Agency that offers Custom Costa Rica Vacations & Packages Including Hotels, All-Inclusive Resorts and Tours. Kayaks are an important part of the company and are used to explore the multitude of islands as well as viewing the incredible beauty of the bioluminescence in the Gulf at night. She is a certified Day Skipper Coastal, and she can boast with being one of the very few if not the only female sport fishing captain in Costa Rica. All Rights Reserved. Bahia Rica is privately owned by a Norwegian couple, whose purpose is to offer a memorable stay in Costa Rica in a real jungle setting. We saw fish, sharks and octopuses pointed out by Juan. Nestled in the northwest corner of Guanacaste province, this isolated town hosts pristine beaches virtually untouched by modern development and views of the bay unrivaled in their beauty. Baha Ballena is the fifth district of the Osa canton, on the coast of the southwestern Pacific of Costa Rica. There are more places to choose from in the, Frequently Asked Questions about Bahia Rica Fishing and Kayak Lodge. Need a car? The algae can only give off a single flash of light each. All rights reserved. This is where you board the boat. He told us some information and history about the area and took us past the little island to see the spider monkeys. This tour company has the best boats, guides, food, and location on the beach. The bioluminesence is very intense in Paquera and it was well worth the money. The bioluminescent bay can be enjoyed from a sea kayak. It was a good mix of feeling like I was in Avitar and floating in the sky and playing with the stars. It's such a satisfying activity and also helps to sensitize us on what all is being dumped in our precious oceans! Available activities are tours to tartuga island , which we didn't do but heard it's awesome, but we did the bioluminescent tour with Luis and it was one of the most extraordinary things we've ever seen! The beds were very uncomfortable. In addition he has research experience from Norway and South Africa. Paquera Puntarenas: 6:00, 10:00, 12:30, 15:00, 17:00. Fortunately those things are a quick fix as long as we know about it ;o), What an AMAZING place! You can see the fish zooming through the water as they leave a lighted trail in the water your paddles and hands leave swirls and trails as well. Overall, it was a perfect day!!! 50303 Santa Cruz. BAHIA DEL SOL, Beachfront Boutique Hotel Once on the road you will see some signs guiding you to the lodge. So much more impactful than a regular boat tour. Bahia Rica Adventures - We offer complete Costa Rica Sport fishing package, bioluminescent multiday sea kayak tour, inshore and offshore fishing, stand up paddleboard rental also enjoy tours like spider monkeys, dolphin watching, whale watching, snorkeling Isla Tortuga boat tour at low price. But great tours & fishing. Bahia Salinas is located in the far northwestern corner of the Guanacaste Province, near the border with Nicaragua. What is bioluminescence? We also helped clean up trash in the water using the kayaks, which was a positive experience. We offer sport fishing, kayak and boat tours to several beautiful destinations in the Nicoya gulf. You sit close to the water in the kayak, and the water glows when you touch it with your hands or the paddle. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Four categories of bioluminescent exist; none, occasional, seasonal and permanent. Playa Hermosa Costa Rica - Gray Sands and Clear Blue Waters What are some restaurants close to Bahia Rica Fishing and Kayak Lodge? Nearby attractions include Tortuga Island (4.3 miles), Reserva Curu (3.7 miles), and Playa Quesera (2.5 miles). One of Costa Rica's most isolated destinations, Baha Drake (drah-kay) is a veritable Lost World, bordered by Parque Nacional Corcovado to the south. Sky Tram- Sky Trek & Sky Walk From Arenal. We had a great time among the howler monkeys, colibris, snakes, spiders and other exotic animals. from C$213 per adult. Vigdis Vatshaug Paquera, Costa Rica: Authentic Costa Rican Beach Town - MytanFeet One of Costa Rica's most isolated destinations, Baha Drake (drah-kay) is a veritable Lost World, bordered by Parque Nacional Corcovado to the south. Then we went snorkeling in 2 different locations and it was truly like swimming in an aquarium! Baha Junquillal National Wildlife Refuge, Costa Rica - City Guide The restaurants name and locally infused dining concept is drawn from the Chorotega word for smoke, celebrated across the menu in its craft cocktails and flavourful dishes. This makes Bahia Salinas the premier Wind and Kite Surfing location in Costa Rica. Overall rating: -From 1 to 5 it is a 2.1. He adjusted the days according to our wishes and knows how to handle unexperienced guests and those who think they are experienced :) We were also very satisfied with the captain Chato who drove carefully. Drake Bay Reachable via an exhilarating speedboat ride through the mangroves from Sierpe, by plane or via a 4WD-only road that requires driving through rivers, Baha Drake consists of a sprawling village and a gorgeous 10.5-mile (17km) coastal trail that leads to the San Pedrillo entrance of Parque Nacional Corcovado. It looks like it was in its prime maybe 20 or 30 years ago. Some guys on a little fishing boat came up to us with fresh scallops and oysters served up with onion and lemon for about $2 US. Bahia Ballena is famous for what whale tail shape that beach and rainforest create during low tide. Punta Cuchillo 1,5 km east of Paquera ferry landing 200 meters west of small bridge, Playa Nicoyana, 2023 Copyright Bahia Rica. Thomas grew up in Brum Norway, and ever since being taken to the ocean to fish from shore at the age of 6, fishing has been a hobby and a fascination for Thomas. From December-March you can see majestic humpback whales visiting the area. As he got older he traveled to California and Florida to visit family and continue his passion for the sport. 6,890 reviews. You can take a kayaking tour with Bahia Rica Lodge to see this incredible natural phenomenon or go to Punta Cuchillos at night and swim in the water. Visiting Bahia Ballena Playa Bahia Ballena (Whale Bay) in Costa Rica is a beautiful and famous beach known for the nearby Marino Ballena National Park. Get to the heart of Baha Drake with one of our in-depth, Our hotel is committed with a sustainable philosophy that contributes to keep nature, community and economy in balance. Also, private flights can be arranged. Its not only a great place for hiking and wildlife spotting (think howler monkeys and sloths), but zip lining, rafting, snorkeling, parasailing and swimming. "The Westin Playa Conchal was fantastic. Dont miss it! They will let you use the kayaks for free and you pick up ocean waste. 2023. Is parking available at Bahia Rica Fishing and Kayak Lodge? Seasonal means that bioluminescence occurs regularly for a certain period of the year and is usually predictable. Bahia Rica is a hidden get-away in the costal dry forest. The district has an area of 160.76 km and has an estimated population of 6000 inhabitants (2019). From here you have to walk along a path for about 200 meters, follow the small Bahia Rica signs. So relaxing. Offshore in the bay, pods of migrating dolphins glide through turquoise waters near the beautiful Isla del Cao marine reserve. Enjoy an unforgettable holiday on one of Costa Rica most breathtaking beaches, the Bahia de los Piratas or Pirate Bay. It is rare because it can only be found in unique areas in a few countries in the world like; Puerto Rico, Thailand, Tasmania and to our delight Costa Rica. In high season, and especially around Christmas and Easter, be prepared to wait some time in the ferry line-up. If you're of limited mobility this would be difficult. EMAIL. Situated between the towns of Pinuela and Uvita, Playa Bahia Ballena is part of the larger Ballena National Marine Park. The hosts are very kind and caring. Bahia Ballena is on the Southern Pacific coast in south Puntarenas. Permanent occurrence is the most sought after and rare of these categories. Read more Suggest edits to improve what we show. As the night grows dark, step into your very comfortable kayak and get ready for a personal encounter with this remarkable phenomenon. 2023. Tambor airport is only 25 minutes away by light aircraft from San Jos, flying over the spectacular beauty of the Gulf of Nicoya. During our bioluminescent experience you will see them looking like small grains of sand, as the algae vary in size and density. Bahia Rica (@bahiarica) / Twitter In the rainforest canopy, howler monkeys greet the rising sun with their haunting bellows, while pairs of macaws soar between the treetops, filling the air with their cacophonous squawking. You can see the Gulf Islands, birds, dolphins, etc. VIEW MORE. 011 506 2201 8731. Show prices. They were delicious! Sansa: Ferries from Puntarenas to Paquera We came to this area specifically to see the bioluminescence & Im so glad we did. The area is about 30 minutes from Tambor beach, and about an hour from Montezuma and Santa Teresa beaches. But its We did the Tortuga Island boat tour with Bahia Rica and loved the experience. Bahia Ballena is one of the worlds best whale watching destinations. What food & drink options are available at Bahia Rica Fishing and Kayak Lodge? 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. She now is a professional kayaking guide and boat captain, taking people out on the water to get an experience of a lifetime. Growing up on the countryside in north of Norway Vigdis enjoyed an upbringing with lots of boating, fishing, kayaking, hiking and other outdoor activities. Montezuma (via Tambor) Paquera: The bus leaves from Paquera ferry landing when the ferry arrives. It looks like a million stars flying by when you look at the waves from your kayak. The algae need a certain temperatures and biological conditions to thrive. Everything that the water touches lights up like fish, rocks, your paddle or even your hand. You will drive 1,5 km east on the gravel road along the shore of Punta Cuchillo. In our area, the temperature does not vary much thus keeping the algae happy and thriving. The boat was ready with lots of cold drinks in the cooler by 8:45 am. After a lovely sail back to Bahia Rica we left with a wealth of happy memories. Bahia Salinas in located in the northwest corner of the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Every day. It is so far north that the top side of the bay is actually in Nicaragua. Manuel Antonio is one of the most famous national parks in Costa Rica. Bahia Ballena is on the Southern Pacific coast in south Puntarenas. Fully furnished to every detail, a lot of thought went into ensuring a comfortable stay! He is a very dedicated sports fisherman and has fished both the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean. The turn-off is to the left immediately after you get off the ferry it might be hard to see at first if there are cars standing in line to get on the ferry Its main town is Uvita, on the beach of the same name. Cloudy or moonless nights give the best viewing experience. However hotel prices tend to be higher and there are more tourists than there are during the rainy season. We had 4 fishing days, 3 inshore fishing and 1 offshore. (+506) 2641-0811. Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica, Sky Tram- Sky Trek & Sky Walk From Arenal. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Permanent means it can be seen any day of the year. By Car: San Jos Puntarenas: First departure: 04:00. Read our, Thank you so much for choosing to stay here at Bahia Rica and doing the tours with us. Quintessential Costa Rica bistros, bars, and beyond. Tropical cocktails served alongside coastal-inspired fare with creative amenities and sunset happenings. Or if you have plenty of time and little luggage its an easy 20 minute walk along the beach promenade. 22 km (30min) from Tambor to Paquera. Highly recommend if you're looking for new and unique experiences. Occasional bioluminescence means that once in a while it is possible to see it, but impossible to predict the next time it will occur. It was still pretty hot and buggy. Highly recommended. Location - Bahia Rica This beautiful property offer 35 comfortable and spacious rooms surrounded by artistic gardens with century-old trees. What'sApp: +506.8583.1741. The grounds are beautiful and have tons of wildlife cruising around. There were refreshments laid out to have which was a nice touch. Accommodations are run down. Imagine being in a science fiction movie where the dark water starts to glow as you pass through it. Fax (506) 2653-8956. Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Tour Costa Rica - Pura Vida Moms The marine life in Bahia Ballena is incredible, but also dangerous if you accidentally wander into their space. Bahia Ballena Information: Getting There, Hotels, Tours - Yoga Enjoy an unforgettable holiday on one of Costa Rica most breathtaking beaches, the Bahia de los Piratas or Pirate Bay. 150 km (3h). The one hour and fifteen minutes boat ride over the Gulf of Nicoya is a scenic and relaxing trip. The Bahia Vista Villa is a spacious townhouse unit with incredible views over Golfito Bay. Many adventurous travelers like to visit Bahia Ballena because there are many adrenaline-pumping activities in the area. After snorkeling, we went to the island for a very tasty lunch in a nice quiet little area with picnic tables and a little kitchen. Last departure: 19:00 . A mix of the charming, iconic, and modern. more. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Vigdis have paddled extensively in the Gulf of Nicoya and have a very good knowledge of beautiful spots to visit, hidden entrances in mangroves and snorkeling spots, as well as tidal currents and safety issues on the water. We booked the bioluminescence tour through our hotel & it was fantastic. BAHIA PEZ VELA RESORT - Updated 2023 Prices & Reviews (Costa Rica In 2007 he moved to Costa Rica with his wife and started Bahia Rica Fishing and Kayak Lodge on the Nicoya Peninsula. Telephone (506) 2653-8951. The days you where here were the hottest we have had this year, so I totally understand your comment about it being hot and buggy. Being so close to the water - some of my group even got in and swam- was wonderful. We had the most amazing day taking the boat the the Isle of Tortuga!! Unfortunately, we didnt have hot water in the shower, and it was to be fixed after we left (be sure to check the water when you first arrive and mention it to the hosts; we forgot to mention it in the morning before we went out on a tour). On a clear day, you'll see Volcn Oros in the distance. Costa Rica Tourism and Travel: Best of Costa Rica, 1st Timers Trip Report: La Fortuna/Monteverde/Manuel Antonio, Adults Only and Adult Friendly Hotels in Costa Rica. www.costaricagreenair.com It should be on everyone's bucket list. As a defense against getting eaten, the algae have evolved to produce a light through a chemical reaction when threatened. Unwind before or after a round of golf, tennis or pickleball at our relaxed new venue, Palapita Tap House. mom!). All in a natural and peaceful environment that will inspire your wellness goals. The boat was the perfect size, accommodating up to around 10 people, which for us was way better than the other options that would have felt a little more crowded. from C$0 per adult. The skies are bright and clear every day. We would totally send friends for a tour with them. Re: Bahia Drake 5 years ago Save Most people visit either Drake Bay or the Puerto Jimenez area (we went to both because we had time and the main goal of our trip was to see wildlife). Park next to it. Bahia Pez Vela Resort - UPDATED 2023 Prices, Reviews & Photos (Costa Conveniently located restaurants include Restaurant Liz Seafood MACHO, Lugar Favorito, and Senor Dner. Accompany our mixologist on a journey through premium Latin American rums, and put your blending skills to the test when you create your very own infused blend. Bahia de Los Piratas | Visit Costa Rica | The official site about Stay summary: -Stayed at Bahia Turquesa North in late April 2013. The quiet bay and beautiful protected beach at Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Baha Junquillal provide gentle swimming and snorkeling opportunities. Located close to Bahia Ballena youll find 5% of the worlds biodiversity within Corcovado National Park. Read before you book!!! Bahia Rica Adventures (Paquera) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go From Tambor, grab a taxi to Paquera ferry landing. Bioluminescent Bay | Nicoya Gulf, Costa Rica - Bahia Rica Adventure Getting to Bahia Ballena is possibly by domestic flight, shared shuttle, private transfer, bus and rental car. Let our knowledgeable guides give you a memory for life time on one of our bioluminescent tours: Bioluminescent Kayak Tour 44. Costa Rica is a beautiful country, visited by millions of people every year to appreciate the biodiversity and relax on its incredible beaches. Visitors to the beach are most likely to see the magnificent creatures between December and March each year . The Gulf of Nicoya. He is a very dedicated sports fisherman and has fished both the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean. The schedules are: Puntarenas Paquera: 7:00, 10:00, 12:30, 15:00, 18:00 Golfito Costa Rica - Bahia Vista www.flysansa.com We ate all our food at the the restaurant at the lodge and Vigdis cooking is top notch, especially the tuna:) We can reccomend Bahia Rica to anyone who likes nature. All Rights Reserved. When you reach the guest house, continue down the hill, and pass a few houses until you cross a very small bridge. The entire house was in need of some major updating and repairs. Even though we didnt catch any monster fishes we had 4 magical days at the sea with lots of fishes, dolphines and great weather. When you are swimming or surfing, keep your eye our for sting rays and jelly fish. NB! The guide Thomas is very professional and knows where to find different kind of fishes. We offer sport fishing, kayak and boat tours to several beautiful destinations in the Nicoya gulf. Ferry Naviera Tambor: (506) 2661-2084 To calculate the departure times see schedule for the ferry. Discover Guanacaste enjoying Baha del Sol options. Four Seasons Hotels Limited 1997-2023. Try avoiding the week before the full moon to get the best bioluminescent experience possible. The rooms were basic with fans and mosquito netting for each bed. Birds, mammals and fish are spotted all day long either from the dining area, the lodge or the hammocks that are spread around the property. Fax: (506) 2255 2176, Green Airways: View all photos (571) Traveler (295) 360. You will get to experience this for yourself on our Bioluminescent kayak tour. What are some of the property amenities at Bahia Rica Fishing and Kayak Lodge? Enter dates to see prices. Bahia Ballena is a small town on the southern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, within the canton of Osa, in the region known as Costa Ballena.Commonly grouped with neighboring town, Uvita, Bahia Ballena is located just 15 minutes south of the more well-known surf town, Dominical, and is a breath of fresh air for travelers looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Southern Pacific region, as well . 15 Best Things to Do in Drake Bay Costa Rica & Ultimate Travel Guide Uvita 60504, Costa Rica Address: Uvita, Bahia Ballena 200 metros Norte de la entrada del Parque Nacional Marino Ballena, Sector Bahia Ballena. Guests can enjoy free breakfast and an on-site restaurant during their stay. Ice fishing, fly fishing, jigging, live bait, trolling, casting and bait casting. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. animals ,adventures, fishing, good food and the silence outside the major tourist destinations. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter for the latest offers. Bahia Rica Adventures | Visit Costa Rica | The official site about The Hotel Cristal Ballena is strategically located on a hillside offering a stunning 180-degree view of Bahia Ballena, and La Cusinga Lodge, set within a private nature reserve, provides sustainable lodging with stunning views over the Ballena Island. Reading time: 10-12 minutes, hope you find it useful. Bahia del Sol Hotel is a unique, exclusive, and romantic beachfront boutique hotel, located just a few steps from the tranquil waters of Playa Potrero, one of the safest beaches of the Pacific Coast. Costa Rica Sport Fishing Lodge - Sea Kayaking Adventure - Bahia Rica This remote place in Costa Rica is a nature lover's paradise, where dense jungle meets the Pacific Ocean. Own or manage this property? The tours out of Bahia Rica were great, particularly the bioluminescence tour! If you want to rent a car, make sure you read about driving in Costa Rica! This area is great-away from the rest of the tourists and more private. Guanacaste Edificio Centro Colon, Piso 8, Oficina 8-1, San Jose. From there you can either drive south on the Costanera Highway or take a bus. In 1978 the family moved to Colorado. Bahia Ballena is on Home Costa Rica Beaches Southern Pacific Beaches Bahia Ballena Costa Rica. Moving back to Norway in 1991, he set his sights on starting up a fishing charter. Costa Rica 2023: Best Places to Visit - Tripadvisor Following a short trip we were water taxied to the shore where there were eating places and gift shop opportunities. Go to the left side of the terminal building, where you will find some concrete steps leading down to the water. At Bahia Rica you will be staying in big comfortable rooms in a real jungle setting. We had the El Bambu which is the independent lodging away from the main house. The tour requires no prior experience but it does help if you have sat in a kayak or canoe before. EMAIL. Surfers will dig the unparallelled conditions of the Guanacaste province. When they are in large concentrations or patches, the light can be so bright it temporarily stuns your night vision. Thomasis a marine biologist (Cand. It's like staying in the jungle but in comfort. If you are not sure where to go, look for or ask someone where the ambulance boat is moored. Bahia Rica also helps support the community through several local projects. It felt like a family friend was taking you on a private island tour instead of feeling like a tourist with just another tourist company. A car with driver included costs approx 12 US$. 1.5 Km al este del Relleno del Ferry. What an amazing experience! Luis is so passionate and knowledgeable, gives such a clear understanding of the phenomenon of bioluminescence. For schedules and reservations visit The Marino Ballena National Park was formed in 1990 for the protection of the coral reefs found in the waters surrounding the Isla Ballena. E-mail hotel. A relaxed atmosphere is surrounding Bahia Rica, with common areas for eating and socializing. Exotic wildlife & Adventure at Playa Bahia Ballena - Go Visit Costa Rica Definitely recommend! Bahia | Costa Rica Restaurant | Seafood | Four Seasons Situated directly on the beach, you will bask in the warm tropical sun or repose in a shaded hammock at our ocean view pool. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Bahia Rica is a place to truly relax. Ballena Beach cannot be described as a village but rather as a beach destination with some lodges and some of the most beautiful hotels in Puntarenas. Car and passenger ferry Busses to Puntarenas She has her formal education in Sports Management with a focus on organization, development cooperation and physical activities. The bus takes approximately one hour from San Jos to Puntarenas. Bahia Rica is at Punta Cuchillo on Costa Rica's west coast. Schedule: from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guanacaste Conservation Area Telephone (ACG): +506 2666-5051 INFOTUR Tourist Information: 1192 Address map: Click here to view directions from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), Alajuela, Costa Rica TO Bahia Junquillal National Wildlife Refuge in Guanacaste, Costa Rica at Google Maps Use We had a great day. Nasu (good eating in the local Chorotega language) Restuarant is an Italian Seafood Grill and traditional. It is an eco-tourists dream. The hosts, Thomas and Vigdis, were wonderful, highly responsive and answered many questions prior to our arrival and during our stay. With its gray sands and clear blue waters, the name "beautiful beach" fits perfectly. Bahia Turquesa Residences - Costa Rica Forum - Tripadvisor Bahia Rica is a hidden get-away in the costal dry forest. Guanacaste, Costa Rica is a province located on the Northern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica and it has become the number one Costa Rica vacation destination.