Las Tortugas Hotel is the center for the Tamarindo National Wildlife Sanctuary and Las Baulas National Marine Park. Since pre-historic times Playa Grande has been on of the world's principal nesting beaches for the now highly-endangered Giant Leatherback Sea Turtle. This nesting habitat is one of the most important for the Leatherback turtle (Baula) in the Occidental Pacific.

In 1990 the Sanctuary's legal status was finally passed into law and this ecologically unique area became part of the Costa Rica National Park System. The creators of the Las Tortugas Hotel led the 20 year grass roots struggle, and as a result, tourism and nature share a healthy marriage here in Playa Grande. Protection of the wildlife area is inherent tothe very nature of the business.

Our entire staff is from families from this area who haved switched from gathering turtle eggs to proudly sharing the wonders of Playa Grande with our guests. Our award-winning facility is approved as environmentally friendly by the New Key Awards, the Costa Rica Audobon, and the Costa Rican Tourist Institute. We designed and handmade the building ourselves. Its temple-like appearance is not an expensive accident. Since turtles are sensitive to light, there are no ocean views to the south where the nesting beach is located. The structure is intended to block light from any future development to the north. The hotel is a model for eco-tourism and sustainable development.

The nesting season for the Giant Leatherback turtle is October through March when they can be seen most every night. Up to 100 of these dinosauric (max. to 1800 lbs.) sea creatures have been spotted nesting at one time. Beginning in early January it is common to see the 4-inch baby turtles emerging from the sand and making their way to the ocean, particularly in the early morning hours.

Right up the street is the Ranger Station and the Turtle museum. The kids will love it. You can shop there, or try our small gift shop. To view the nesting turtles at night,, you must take a guided with the park rangers. The Ranger Station is but 50 meters inland from us. The tours run from October 20th to Feb. 15th only. The cost is $20/person. We can make reservations for you.

From the Ranger Station you will begin your guided nocturnal tour with one of the park rangers. In a small group you walk silently down the beach with only the stars and moon to light your way. You will feel as though you have traveled back in time. It won't take long before you come upon an enormous creature slowly emerging from the surf. Imagine how far both you and the turtle have traveled to finally meet on this secluded shore. Then begins the hour long nesting ritual that can be observed from beginning to end. This wonderful experience will be something you will always remember.