Skip to main content

Tico Explorers

Explore Puntarenas & the Gulf Islands

Puntarenas and the Gulf Islands offer a maritime view of Costa Rica, where coastal communities, island landscapes and boat journeys connect across the Gulf of Nicoya. Discover how people and wildlife depend on these Pacific waters. Let curiosity lead to understanding, gratitude and care for the people and landscapes that welcome you.

Rough Venus Clam Shell Study-19

Rough Venus Clam

Fine crossing sculpture gives this small clam a textured surface.

Read More
platalea-ajaja

Roseate Spoonbill

A pink wading bird that sweeps a spoon-shaped bill through shallow water.

Read More
nycticorax-nycticorax

Black-crowned Night-Heron

A compact heron whose feeding day often begins at dusk.

Read More
eupsittula-canicularis

Orange-fronted Parakeet

An agile green parakeet with an orange forehead and long pointed tail.

Read More
chiroxiphia-linearis

Long-tailed Manakin

A small forest bird famous for coordinated courtship displays.

Read More
eumomota-superciliosa

Turquoise-browed Motmot

A turquoise eyebrow and racket-shaped tail make this bird memorable.

Read More
ramphastos-sulfuratus

Keel-billed Toucan

A rainbow-colored bill stands out against dark plumage and a yellow throat.

Read More
Indio Desnudo Copper Bark Tree in Costa RIca

Indio Desnudo

A tree whose warm-colored bark invites a closer look.

Read More
Red Mangrove at Tamarindo Estuary-3

Red Mangrove

Follow the shape of the roots where land meets tidal water.

Read More
White Ibis in Mangrove Waters-4

White Ibis

A long, downward-curving bill.

Read More
Brown Pelican on the Pacific Shore-5

Brown Pelican

A long bill with a pouch beneath the lower jaw.

Read More
Beach Morning Glory by the Shore-10

Beach Morning Glory

Creeping stems extending across beach sand.

Read More

My Tico Explorer Experience

Save nature, towns, discoveries and learning adventures for your next experience.

Your list stays in this browser on this device.