San Lucas Island, Former prison island in Gulf of Nicoya, Costa Rica.
San Lucas Island spans 4.6 square kilometers of land and features dense forests, sandy beaches, and rocky coastlines in the Pacific waters.
The island functioned as a maximum-security prison from 1873 to 1991, housing dangerous criminals under the administration of President Tomas Guardia.
Archaeological discoveries on the island include stone tools and metal objects from indigenous settlements dating between 1000 and 1500 AD.
Visitors can access the island through 40-minute boat rides from Puntarenas, with guided tours lasting between 4 to 6 hours.
The prison walls contain preserved inmate graffiti that documents daily life stories and experiences during the penitentiary period.
Location: Puntarenas Canton
Elevation above the sea: 47 m
GPS coordinates: 9.94008,-84.90423
Latest update: May 10, 2025 19:39
Estadio Asociación Cívica Jicaraleña
23.7 km
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral, Puntarenas
8.7 km
Playa Doña Ana
18.2 km
Playa Mantas
37 km
Tivives Protected Zone
22.6 km
Nicolas Wessberg Absolute Natural Reserve
34.9 km
Playa Órganos
14.6 km
Phare de Puntarenas
7.1 km
Lighthouses in Puntarenas
9.9 km
Playa Guacalillo
29.5 km
Playa Piedra Colorada
35.4 km
Playa Blanca
37.1 km
Playa Naranjo
6.9 km
Playa Pájaros
9 km
Playa Boca de Barranca
18 km
Tambor Beach
25.6 km
Puntarenas
7.9 km
Playa Panamá
7.8 km
Playa Limoncito
37 km
Playa Caldera
19.8 km
Playa Tumbabote
1.5 km
Playa Bochinche
36.7 km
Playa Camarón
13.5 km
Playa Mora
7.9 km
Playa Española
19.9 km
Playa Leña
29.9 km
Playa Palomo
3.5 km
Playa Cuchillo
12.1 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes