![Alcatraz [Brown Pelican] (Pelecanus occidentalis occidentalis)](https://live.staticflickr.com/8324/8124036531_7fbbd6601b_b.jpg)
Paquera · Puntarenas · Costa Rica
Playa Alcatraz
You reach this pocket beach by motorboat, stepping from bow to sand as swells roll past volcanic headlands. The cove's still water and offshore coral heads make it a favored mid-morning snorkel stop between Paquera and the Tortugas.
Reading live conditions…
Live from Open-Meteo · sea surface temperature and wave data modelled at 1-km grid resolution for Playa Alcatraz. Numbers refresh at the hourly tick.
- Purity
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- Conditions
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- Crowd
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The OnlyBeaches Index weighs four pillars against your chosen persona. Purity comes from water clarity and air-quality heuristics; Conditions from Open-Meteo waves, wind and temperatures; Crowd from historical patterns; Vibe from nearby events within 50 km. The score rebalances throughout the day.
You reach this pocket beach by motorboat, stepping from bow to sand as swells roll past volcanic headlands. The cove's still water and offshore coral heads make it a favored mid-morning snorkel stop between Paquera and the Tortugas.
Photos
8 captures from Playa Alcatraz
About this beach
Where it is
Playa Alcatraz
Paquera, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
9.7817°, -84.8956°
Top things to do
At Playa Alcatraz
Coral Garden Drift
Spot parrotfish and sergeant majors
Sheltered Cove Swim
Bathwater-warm gulf water
Morning Light Shots
Almond trees meet turquoise shallows
Shade Under Almonds
Dappled canopy on brown sand
Near this beach
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Playa Alcatraz.
Questions people actually ask about Playa Alcatraz.
Is snorkeling safe at Playa Alcatraz?
Playa Alcatraz generally offers safe snorkeling conditions thanks to its protected cove location in the Tortuga Islands. The calm, clear waters make it suitable for beginners and families. However, always snorkel with a buddy and stay aware of boat traffic, as this is a popular tour stop. Most organized tours provide life jackets and snorkeling equipment with basic safety briefings. Water conditions are typically gentle, but check with your tour operator about current conditions. There are no lifeguards or emergency services on-site, so exercise appropriate caution and follow your guide's instructions.
When is the best time to visit Playa Alcatraz for snorkeling?
The dry season from December through April offers the best visibility for snorkeling with calmer seas and clearer water. However, the Tortuga Islands can be visited year-round, with green season (May-November) bringing fewer crowds despite occasional afternoon showers. Water clarity is generally best in the morning before winds pick up. High tide often provides better snorkeling conditions with more water over the reefs. Peak tourist months (December-March) mean more crowded tours, so consider visiting in shoulder seasons for a balance of good weather and fewer fellow snorkelers sharing the cove.
