Ostional Wildlife Refuge

Ostional Wildlife Refuge is a protected coastal area in Cuajiniquil featuring beaches, mangrove wetlands, and forest vegetation that shelter diverse marine life and migratory birds. The landscape stretches along the Pacific shore with distinct zones that shift from sandy beaches to swampy vegetation to dense forest growth inland.

The refuge was established in 1983 to protect critical nesting grounds for Olive Ridley sea turtles and ensure their survival. Since its creation by the Área de Conservación Tempisque, it has remained essential to maintaining healthy populations of these animals.

Local communities lead tours and manage the area through hands-on conservation work that directly supports the turtle populations. Visitors encounter their daily dedication to protecting this environment and the knowledge they share about the animals and habitat.

The best time to visit is between July and December when sea turtles arrive in large numbers to nest on the beaches. Guided tours are the standard way to observe the animals and explore the area safely and responsibly.

The refuge is known for arribadas, events when thousands of Olive Ridley sea turtles arrive together on the same nights to lay eggs on the beaches. This synchronized gathering is one of nature's rarest mass congregations of marine animals and draws visitors from around the world.

Location: Cuajiniquil

Operator: Área de Conservación Tempisque (ACT)

GPS coordinates: 9.96171,-85.71533

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:01