Costa Rican Road Trip Episode 8: Swimmers in Isla del Caño
Our day started with another perfect blue sky and a breakfast as fresh as the morning air.
Today’s destination was the fabled Isla del Caño, a small but spectacular island off Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula. Known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant underwater life, Isla del Caño Biological Reserve is a dream spot for snorkelers and divers alike. Beneath the surface, the island shelters coral reefs, underwater caves, and an impressive array of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, reef sharks, and colorful tropical fish. The waters here are part of a protected marine reserve, which keeps them among the healthiest, most pristine spots for underwater exploration in the country.
But there’s more to Isla del Caño than its underwater beauty. This island holds a fascinating slice of Costa Rican history as a former sacred burial ground for the indigenous Diquis culture. Here, you’ll find ancient stone spheres, nearly perfectly round and known as Las Bolas. The purpose of these mysterious spheres, carved thousands of years ago, remains unknown. Were they astronomical markers, symbols of power, or something else? No one knows for sure, but their presence lends an air of mystery to the island’s remote shores.
To reach Isla del Caño, you can only travel by boat, which we did from Drake Bay. It’s about an hour’s ride, and arriving at the island feels like uncovering a hidden paradise. The calm, crystal-blue water made it perfect for snorkeling—even my kids could float effortlessly with their devices, completely safe from drifting currents. We spent over an hour in the water, but I could’ve stayed all day. Swimming alongside a sea turtle was one of the highlights; watching it glide effortlessly through the water felt like watching a dance, and for a moment, it felt like it was inviting me to dive deeper. Now, I can’t wait to come back to Costa Rica during the turtle nesting season!
After our snorkeling session, we relaxed on the beach, soaking up the tranquility. Lunch in the shade, with a view of the ocean, felt like a small slice of paradise. The simplicity of the moment—fresh air, sunlight, and a quiet stretch of sand—was exactly the kind of peaceful reset everyone needs now and then. We played a bit more on the beach before finally heading back to the hotel.
Later, with some time before dinner, we relaxed outdoors, enjoying the golden light and reflecting on the day. For a place as remote as Drake Bay, the food here has been excellent, making each meal a pleasure.
After dinner, we noticed the night sky had cleared completely, revealing a stunning display of stars and a glowing moon. Even though tomorrow’s drive north will be a long one, we decided to stay up a bit later, savoring the last moments of this magical day and the tranquil beauty of Drake Bay.
