Explore the Nicoya Gulf Like Few Others Ever Do

Escape the crowds and discover Costa Rica from the seat of an touring sea kayak.

Bahía Rica offers touring sit-inside sea kayaks for experienced paddlers who want the freedom to explore the islands, mangrove forests, secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters of the Nicoya Gulf on their own terms.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing half-day paddle, a full-day island adventure or a multi-day camping expedition, we'll help you plan an unforgettable journey.

Why Paddle the Nicoya Gulf?

The Nicoya Gulf offers some of Costa Rica's finest sea kayaking. Sheltered waters, dozens of islands, quiet beaches, mangrove forests and abundant wildlife create endless opportunities for exploration. Spend several days island-hopping without retracing your route, discovering hidden coves, peaceful campsites and spectacular scenery along the way.

Why Choose Bahía Rica?

Every rental includes a complimentary expedition planning session. Before you depart, we'll review your plans together and share local knowledge gathered from years of paddling these waters.

We'll help you with:
• Route planning
• Weather and wind conditions
• Tidal currents and best departure times
• Areas accessible only at high or low tide
• Safe landing beaches
• Scenic campsites
• Freshwater refill locations
• Food stops
• Places to charge your phone
• Wildlife hotspots
• Suggested daily distances based on your experience

Think of it as having your own local expedition advisor before setting off.

Choose Your Adventure

• Half-day rentals
• Full-day rentals
• Multi-day expeditions

Planning several days on the water? We also rent camping equipment so you can travel light while enjoying a comfortable overnight adventure.

Touring Sit-inside Sea Kayaks

Our expedition kayaks are full-size individual touring sea kayaks—not recreational beach kayaks.

Each kayak includes:
• Rudder system
• Front and rear storage compartments
• Comfortable expedition seating
• Paddle
• PFD
• Spray skirt
• Essential safety equipment

Is This Rental Right for You?

This experience is ideal if you:
✓ Have previous touring or sea kayaking experience
✓ Are comfortable paddling in open water
✓ Know how to perform a self-rescue with sit-inside kayaks
✓ Can operate a rudder-equipped sea kayak
✓ Want the freedom to explore independently

This experience is not recommended for beginners. If you're looking for an introduction to kayaking, we'd be happy to recommend one of our guided kayak experiences instead.

What You'll Discover

Explore tropical islands, mangrove forests, secluded beaches and rocky reefs. Wildlife commonly includes pelicans, frigatebirds, herons, dolphins, sea turtles, rays, raccoons and spider monkeys. On suitable evenings you may also experience the magical glow of bioluminescence.

Suggested 3-Day Self-Guided Expedition

Every trip is different.

The ideal route depends on weather conditions, tides, currents and your paddling experience. The itinerary below is simply an example of a rewarding three-day expedition in the Nicoya Gulf.

Day 1

Launch from Bahía Rica and paddle across Paquera Bay to Islas Pájaros before continuing to Isla Gitana for lunch. Follow the coastline to Playa Blanca for your first overnight camp. Approx. 14 km.

Day 2

Time your departure with the incoming tide to explore the Bahía Gigante mangroves before continuing along the coast to Isla Cedros. Camp here and, if conditions are right, enjoy bioluminescence after dark. Approx. 15 km.

Day 3

Explore Isla Cedros and Jesucita, stop at San Pedro for snorkeling and lunch, then continue to Islas Negritos to look for spider monkeys before returning to Bahía Rica. Approx. 14 km.

Expedition Gear Available

Traveling light? We offer selected expedition equipment for rent, including expedition hammocks (or tent), dry bags, camping gear and other essentials (subject to availability).
 

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Some adventures are best experienced with a guide.

Others are even better when they're your own.

At Bahía Rica, we provide the expedition kayak, local knowledge and planning support—then the adventure is yours to create.

Contact us to discuss your plans, check availability and start designing your own sea kayak adventure.