Sea Turtle Nesting in Nosara Costa Rica- massive sea turtle nesting in Ostional

Located just 20 minutes from Nosara, Costa Rica, the Ostional Wildlife National Refuge is an area known for its incredible natural phenomenon – the arribada of olive ridley sea turtles. In Spanish, “arribada” refers to the arrival or landing.

This protected site, dedicated to safeguarding these remarkable creatures and their nesting grounds, holds the distinction of being the second-largest arribada site on the planet. Discover in this blog, the wonders of the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle nesting at Ostional, the significance of this place, and how to engage responsibly when living near this amazing area.

Arribadas: Exploring Ostional and the Olive Ridley sea turtle arribadas

When you visit Nosara, one of the must-see attractions is the Ostional Wildlife National Refuge. Here, you can witness the incredible “arribadas,” a natural spectacle that draws nature enthusiasts from around the world.

What is an Arribada? Things to do in Nosara’s surrounding areas.

An arribada is a unique natural event where a significant number of Olive Ridley Sea Turtles come ashore simultaneously to lay their eggs. This incredible spectacle takes place year-round, with the highest concentration occurring between July and November. During this period, the beach can witness up to an astonishing eight nests per square meter, making Ostional a vital sanctuary for these endangered creatures.

Olive Ridley sea turtles: Amazing facts

Size	Olive Ridley Sea Turtles, known for their petite size, typically measure between 50 and 70 centimeters.
Lifespan	These remarkable creatures have a lifespan of around 60 years, showcasing their longevity.
Temperature-Dependent Sex	What's even more fascinating is that the sex of the hatchlings is determined by the temperature in the sand where they incubate. The warmer temperatures tend to produce more females, while cooler temperatures lead to male hatchlings.
Hatching Period	Olive Ridley Sea Turtle hatchlings typically emerge from their nests 45 to 60 days after the initial nesting event, embarking on their incredible journey to the sea.
Nesting Size	Each nest can contain up to 100 eggs, emphasizing the significance of the Olive Ridley Sea Turtles' reproduction in preserving their species and contributing to the ecosystem.

About the refuge:

The Ostional Wildlife National Refuge is not just limited to Ostional Beach; it also encompasses Playa Pelada and Playa Guiones in Nosara. This provides visitors with the opportunity to observe nesting turtles even in Nosara itself. The refuge is a testament to Costa Rica’s commitment to biodiversity conservation, making it an essential destination for eco-tourism.

Ostional: A quiet village close to Acquarello Nosara

While Nosara is known for its vibrant scene, Ostional is a smaller village with fewer developments and basic amenities. This contrast allows visitors to appreciate the village with a short drive and get back to the energy of Nosara

The astounding numbers: Up to 300,000 turtles in a week!

One of the most remarkable aspects of Ostional’s arribadas is the sheer number of Olive Ridley Sea Turtles that participate. During an arribada (4-8 days), it’s not uncommon for as many as 300,000 turtles to make their way to the beach to lay their eggs, creating an awe-inspiring natural spectacle.

Respecting the rules: Guided access during "Arribadas"

During arribadas, the beach at Ostional becomes a private beach, and only certified guides are allowed to accompany visitors. These guides are well-versed in the rules and regulations necessary for the safety of both turtles and humans. The guidelines include avoiding flash photography, not positioning oneself directly in front of the turtles, and using zoom lenses to maintain a safe distance.

Get involved as an investor in Nosara: Our commitment to conservation

In Acquarello Nosara, we are privileged to witness the miracle of the arribada only 20 minutes away from our project, and to be part of this community. It is crucial that we engage responsibly, respecting the environment and the local regulations.

As part of our commitment, we have adopted a series of good practices in sustainable development, water and waste management, native vegetation, and more. These practices are essential in preserving the natural environment and the well-being of the turtles. You can check them all here

In conclusion, the arribada of Olive Ridley Sea Turtles it’s a testament to the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica and a reminder of the importance of a committed community. By respecting the rules, supporting conservation efforts, and engaging with the local community, we can all play a part in preserving this incredible natural spectacle for generations to come.

Ready to make your move to this amazing place?

We invite you to explore Acquarello Nosara, our exclusive real estate development. With only 16 upscale homes available, it offers a distinct opportunity to embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle, whether you’re considering a permanent move or an investment in this tropical paradise.