The Caño Island Biological Reserve, just 34 miles from Playa Uvita, represents a protected marine jewel in the Costa Rican Pacific. Widely recognized as one of the best diving sites in Costa Rica, this island is home to one of the most diverse populations of reef fish and coral along the entire Pacific coast. Although its land surface has limited fauna, its true treasure lies beneath its crystal-clear waters, providing a safe environment for sharks and other megafauna species.
Exceptional Marine Ecosystem This natural sanctuary protects crucial marine environments, notable for their extension and biological richness. Founded in 1978 as part of Costa Rica’s National Park System, “La Reserva Biológica Isla del Caño” protects 800 acres of land on the island itself and more than 14,000 surrounding marine acres, making it a vital habitat for countless species.
Fascinating Underwater Biodiversity The colorful and majestic living reef system surrounding the island is filled with marine organisms, including:
Spotted tropical dolphins are common on the surface, and bottlenose dolphins are occasionally observed as well. The island is frequently called “Cocos Island in miniature” due to similarities in their ecosystems and pristine conservation status.
Meeting point: 6:30 AM at our operations center
Departure time: 7:00 AM from Punta Uvita, Marino Ballena National Park
Maritime journey duration: Approximately 80 minutes (53 km)
Diving experience: Two dives at different points on the north side of the island
Return time from the island: 1:00 PM
Estimated arrival in Uvita: 2:30 PM
During navigation, you’ll enjoy the majestic panorama of Costa Ballena, a unique area of Costa Rica where the Pacific Ocean waves break on the southern coasts and the high mountains seem to end where the sea begins. It’s common to spot dolphins, whales (in season), and other marine creatures during the journey.
Technical Diving Information:
For those susceptible to seasickness, we recommend taking motion sickness medication 30 minutes before departure.
We always operate with small groups, keeping our Caño Island Diving Tour friendly, intimate, and safe. There are strict government policies on the number of daily visitors to the Island, as well as the number of vessels that can approach with divers, so we recommend making reservations as far in advance as possible.
Part of our income is directly allocated to marine conservation projects in the area, contributing to the preservation of this unique ecosystem for future generations.
Ready to discover the underwater paradise of Caño Island? If you’re looking for the best diving available in Costa Rica, Caño Island is where you’ll find it!
Price: $150
Price:
1 to 6 people: $1600.00
Up to 12 people: $2800.00
Price: $85