Costa Rica – Family-Friendly Sea Turtle & Nature Conservation

The project takes place on the southwestern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, a region known for pristine beaches, tropical dry forests, and diverse wildlife. The coastline forms part of a protected area where several turtle species—Olive Ridley, Green, and Hawksbill—nest throughout the June–February season. Families stay in a peaceful natural environment surrounded by forest trails that lead directly to quiet, undeveloped beaches.Nearby Santa Teresa offers cafés, surf schools, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

The region is also recognized as one of the world’s five “Blue Zones,” known for the strong connection between nature, community, and wellbeing. Because of its secluded location, access requires a combination of shuttle and 4×4 transport, adding to the sense of peaceful retreat. Wildlife sightings may include monkeys, iguanas, and colorful birds, making it an ideal setting for family nature experiences.

About the Program

As a family, you will work alongside a respected conservation team dedicated to protecting coastal ecosystems and sea turtle populations. The project welcomes volunteers from around the world, creating a multicultural environment where families feel supported and engaged. Nesting activity can reach up to 100 nests per month during peak periods; however, sea turtle behavior varies naturally, so sightings and hatchling events are never guaranteed.

Nesting Season & Sea Turtle Species

The project’s beach is an important nesting site for all four of Costa Rica’s sea turtle species: Olive Ridley, Green, Hawksbill, and Leatherback turtles. Nesting runs from June to February, with the busiest months usually falling in September and October. Predators such as crabs, dogs, birds, and wild cats – together with human egg poaching – pose ongoing challenges for hatchlings. Volunteers help by joining night or early-morning patrols, identifying tracks, locating nests, and supporting protection measures. Hatchling releases take place only when conditions align, making each one a special moment when it happens.

About the Volunteer Work

During the nesting season, families may take part in patrols adapted to be suitable for children, assisting with track identification, basic data collection, and nest protection. Outside the season, conservation work continues through reforestation, organic gardening, trail maintenance, and environmental education activities designed for all ages.

Volunteer tasks may include:

• Night or dawn turtle patrols (seasonal)
• Recording nest locations and identifying tracks
• Supporting hatchling releases (when possible)
• Beach cleanups and environmental awareness activities
• Tree planting and habitat restoration
• Organic gardening, composting, and permaculture tasks
• Educational activities for children focused on nature and sustainability

A Typical Day for Volunteers

A day often begins with a morning conservation activity such as a patrol, beach cleanup, or sustainability project. After lunch, families enjoy quieter hours for rest, beach time, reading, or optional tours. Scheduled evening patrols occur only when conditions are suitable, and while sightings are not guaranteed, the experience of contributing to conservation is rewarding for volunteers of all ages.

Internet: Wi-Fi is available in designated communal areas but may be limited due to the remote setting.

Accommodations: Families stay in private eco-cabins designed to blend with the natural landscape. Cabins offer simple comfort with beds, mosquito nets, and natural ventilation, surrounded by forest and open space. Some cabins include private bathrooms; others may have shared facilities. The volunteer campus was designed as a living educational space, allowing participants to experience practical, sustainable ways of living firsthand.

Food: At the project site, three meals per day are prepared with local ingredients, including produce grown through on-site permaculture systems. Meals are balanced, home-style, and suitable for families, with dietary needs accommodated when communicated in advance. As a family, you will eat at the dining hall with the staff and other volunteers. Breakfast is provided at the boutique hotel during your stay in San José.

Please note the project’s minimum requirements:

• Minimum recommended age: 9+ (younger children may be approved upon request)
• GoEco interview
• Ability to walk on sand and uneven terrain
• Willingness to participate in early or late activities depending on tides
• Respect for wildlife and conservation guidelines
• Travel insurance required
• Families should be comfortable with rustic, nature-based conditions

Families enjoy a guided full-day excursion to Poás Volcano, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and a traditional coffee estate at the start of their trip. During the volunteer week, the coastline offers peaceful beaches, sunset views, and wildlife sightings. Optional activities include horseback riding through coastal trails, canopy zip-lining, surfing lessons, boat trips to Tortuga Island, and hikes near Montezuma.
In San José, families can explore local markets and historic neighborhoods. Combined with hands-on conservation work, this trip offers a balanced blend of culture, nature, and adventure.