It's all in the name.  Costa Rica, the "Rich Coast" has amazing maritime parks and reserves.  Many were created to protect important nesting grounds for four species of sea turtles: Olive Ridley, Leatherback, Green and Hawksbill.

 

green turtle hatchling
Green Sea Turtle, Chelonia mydas mydas (Spanish-Tortuga Verde) The attrition rate in nests is quite high (mainly from natural causes), but a lot of the danger has passed for this hatchling that's made it to the water off Tortuguero beach. (© 2005 A. Gaos)

 



 

The individual marine and turtle parks and reserves are listed in the menu to the left.