Las Baulas National Marine Park, Marine conservation park in Cantón Santa Cruz, Costa Rica
Las Baulas National Marine Park is a protected coastal area in Guanacaste featuring sandy beaches, mangrove wetlands, and river mouths that feed into the Pacific Ocean. The park combines both marine and land zones, creating diverse habitats for sea creatures and shore vegetation.
The park was established in 1991 as a protected area for endangered sea turtles nesting along the Pacific coast. This decision marked a significant commitment to preserving marine wildlife for future generations.
The park serves as a meeting place where local guides share knowledge about sea turtle life and marine ecosystems. Visitors can learn directly from community members who have dedicated themselves to protecting this coastal environment.
The park is best visited with a local guide who knows the coastal terrain and can point out important sites. Plan your visit during daytime hours and bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for sandy and wet paths.
Hundreds of leatherback turtles return to the park's beaches each year to lay their eggs, creating a rare natural event. These turtles lay far more eggs per nest than other sea turtle species, making their presence here remarkable for marine biology.
Location: Guanacaste Province
Inception: 1991
Operator: Área de Conservación Tempisque (ACT)
Website: http://sinac.go.cr
GPS coordinates: 10.31800,-85.86500
Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:40
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