October 1, 2026

Sea Turtle Season in Esterillos, Costa Rica

Every year, between July and December, the beaches of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific become an important place for sea turtles returning to the shore to nest. Here in Esterillos, this seasonal return is something the local community looks forward to and works together to protect.

September and October are especially active months for sea turtle nesting in this region. During this time, visitors and residents may have the opportunity to witness one of nature’s most remarkable moments: a sea turtle slowly making her way out of the ocean, finding a place in the sand, and beginning the process of creating a new generation.

A seasonal connection between land and sea

Sea turtles spend most of their lives in the ocean, but they depend on beaches like those along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast to reproduce. After traveling through the water, female turtles come ashore to lay their eggs before returning to the sea.

The nesting season brings a different rhythm to the beach. At night, when the beaches become quieter, conservation teams and community members can patrol the shore, monitor nesting activity, and help protect vulnerable nests.

In nearby communities, sea turtle conservation projects combine monitoring, education, hatchery work, and community participation. These efforts are especially important because turtle nests and hatchlings face many natural and human-made challenges.

Conservation starts with the community

One of the things we value most about living and working in Esterillos is seeing how environmental conservation can become a community effort.

Local people dedicate their time to protecting nests, caring for hatchlings, educating visitors, and helping others understand why these animals and their nesting beaches are worth protecting. Community-based conservation projects in the Esterillos area have been active for years, with volunteers participating in activities such as nest monitoring, hatchery work, environmental education, and turtle releases.

For us at Toji, this is an important part of what it means to be connected to our surroundings. Sustainability isn't something that exists separately from the community. It is also about paying attention to the ecosystems around us and supporting the people who care for them.

How to experience turtle season responsibly

If you are visiting Esterillos during turtle season, there are ways to enjoy this natural phenomenon while minimizing your impact.

If you encounter a nesting turtle on the beach, give her plenty of space and follow the instructions of local conservation volunteers or guides. Avoid bright lights, flash photography, touching the turtle, or getting between her and the ocean.

It is also important to remember that hatchlings need a clear and safe path toward the sea. Keeping beaches clean, reducing artificial light near nesting areas, and following local conservation guidelines can all help.

The best way to experience turtle nesting is to let the conservation team lead the way.

A reminder of what we share this place with

Living in a place as biodiverse as Costa Rica means that wildlife is part of everyday life. At Toji, we regularly see how much there is to learn when we slow down and pay attention to the natural world around us.

Sea turtle season is one of those reminders.

For a few months each year, these ancient animals return to the beaches near our community. Their arrival connects the ocean, the beach, the forest, and the people who live here in a cycle that has continued for generations.

If you are in Esterillos between July and December, ask us about the local sea turtle conservation efforts and how you can support them during your stay.

Sometimes, one of the most meaningful parts of traveling is simply learning how to be a respectful guest in the ecosystem we are visiting.