CULEBRA FERRY FIELD GUIDE
Culebra by Ferry: Swim with Turtles at Tamarindo and Afternoon at Flamenco
A full-day, 10-hour outing that includes round-trip ferry travel, shore-based guided snorkeling with sea turtles at Tamarindo, and free time at world-famous Flamenco Beach—this guide focuses on logistics, gear, and what to expect.
Culebra by Ferry: Swim with Turtles at Tamarindo and Afternoon at Flamenco.
Embark on an unforgettable full-day adventure to Culebra Island, where powder-white sand meets crystal-clear water and vibrant reef life. This hassle-free outing includes round-trip ferry tickets and land transfers to Tamarindo and Flamenco Beaches, a guided snorkeling experience among sea turtles and other marine life, and time to relax and refuel on Flamenco’s storied shore.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Guided snorkeling with sea turtles at Tamarindo
A shore-based, guided snorkeling excursion at Tamarindo showcases turtles, stingrays and vibrant reef fish; full snorkel gear and safety instructions are provided for the guided segment.
Flamenco Beach: white sand and island time
After snorkeling, you’ll have free time at Flamenco Beach—ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches—where local food kiosks, bars and basic facilities let you relax and grab lunch on the sand.
Round-trip ferry, transfers, and local crew
The experience includes round-trip ferry tickets and included land transfers on Culebra, with an expert local crew managing the snorkeling and on-island logistics for a smooth, full-day outing.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The day begins at the Ceiba ferry terminal, moves into a 45–60 minute ferry crossing to Culebra, then onto Tamarindo Beach for a guided, shore-launched snorkel among turtles and reef life; after the marine portion you’ll spend unstructured time at Flamenco Beach before returning to Ceiba by ferry in the evening.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should sit this one out.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
One comfortable bag or backpack; swimwear; water shoes; towel; sun protection (biodegradable sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, long-sleeve shirt or rashguard); a set of dry clothes; snacks & drinks (alcoholic beverages allowed); any personal medicines; cash for restaurants, souvenirs and tips; and a waterproof or protected camera.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Are round-trip ferry tickets included?
Yes. Round-trip ferry tickets are included with this tour; you do not need to purchase ferry tickets separately.
Is the guided snorkeling tour conducted from a boat?
No. The guided snorkeling excursion is conducted from the shore at Tamarindo Beach after a shuttle from the arrival point on Culebra.
Are there places to eat at Flamenco Beach?
Yes. Flamenco Beach has several food options including lunch kiosks, bars and ice-cream stands; restrooms and shower facilities are also available on-site.
Do we keep the snorkeling gear for use at Flamenco Beach?
No. Snorkeling equipment is provided exclusively for the guided tour at Tamarindo Beach and is not available for use at Flamenco Beach.
Where and when do we check in for the trip?
You meet at the Ceiba Ferry Terminal; operators will text arrival and check-in instructions the day before. Check-in and departure times vary by day: weekday check-in and ferry times differ from weekend times—refer to the operator message for your specific departure.
How long is the overall trip?
The listed duration for this full-day experience is 10 hours.