Drake Bay is one of Costa Rica’s most spectacular and least-developed destinations—a place where raw nature, wildlife, and adventure come together in a setting that still feels wonderfully untouched. Located on the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay is the gateway to Corcovado National Park, one of the most biologically diverse regions on Earth. For travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience far from crowds, shopping malls, and high-rise resorts, Drake Bay is pure magic.
Reaching Drake Bay is part of the adventure. Access is primarily by boat, either from Sierpe through the mangroves or by coastal boat taxi. During the dry season, it is also possible to arrive via a long, bumpy dirt road, though conditions vary and four-wheel drive is essential. This isolation has preserved Drake Bay’s pristine forests, rich wildlife, and laid-back atmosphere, making it a dream destination for nature lovers and adventurous travelers.
Below is a detailed guide to the best things to do in Drake Bay, Costa Rica.
1. Explore Corcovado National Park
No visit to Drake Bay is complete without exploring Corcovado National Park, often described by National Geographic as “the most biologically intense place on Earth.” Covering nearly half of the Osa Peninsula, Corcovado protects primary rainforest, rivers, beaches, and wetlands.
Guided tours are required, and they range from half-day hikes to full-day or multi-day expeditions. Trails vary in difficulty, but even the easier hikes are incredibly rewarding. You may encounter tapirs, white-faced capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, coatis, peccaries, sloths, and—if you are extremely lucky—a jaguar or puma.
The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to scarlet macaws, toucans, trogons, and countless other species. Swimming holes, jungle rivers, and untouched beaches add to the adventure, making Corcovado one of the most unforgettable experiences in Costa Rica.
2. Canopy Zipline Tour
For a dose of adrenaline combined with rainforest views, try The Original Canopy Tour near Drake Bay. This zipline experience is shorter than some of Costa Rica’s larger canopy tours, but it is still thrilling and scenic.
The tour includes six cables and nine platforms, taking you high into the treetops where you can enjoy panoramic views of the jungle canopy. It’s a fun, accessible adventure that doesn’t require extreme fitness, making it suitable for families and first-time zipliners.
3. Birdwatching Tours
Drake Bay is widely regarded as one of the best birdwatching destinations in Costa Rica. Due to the variety of ecosystems—coastal forest, mangroves, primary rainforest, and wetlands—the diversity of birdlife is astounding.
Early morning and late afternoon birding tours typically last two to three hours and are led by expert naturalist guides. Common sightings include:
- Scarlet macaws
- Toucans
- Hummingbirds
- Hawks and flycatchers
- Tanagers, euphonias, and honeycreepers
- Antbirds
One especially exciting sighting is the black-cheeked tanager, an endemic species found only in the Corcovado region. Even casual walkers will notice birds everywhere, but guided tours greatly increase the number of species you’ll spot.
4. Hiking and Nature Walks
Beyond Corcovado, Drake Bay offers excellent local hiking opportunities. Trails wind through jungle terrain, cross small streams, and lead to hidden swimming holes. Because the area is hilly, a reasonable level of fitness is recommended, but there are options for all abilities.
Some hikes take you along the coast, where rainforest meets beach, while others lead inland through dense vegetation. These hikes often include opportunities to see monkeys, reptiles, butterflies, and tropical plants up close.
5. Kayaking in Rivers and Mangroves
Kayaking is a peaceful and immersive way to experience Drake Bay’s waterways. The Río Agujitas is ideal for kayaking at high tide, while the Río Drake offers a longer, three-hour journey upstream through mangrove forests. This route is only navigable from half-low to half-high tide.
Kayaking through mangroves allows you to quietly observe wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and reptiles without disturbing their habitat. The calm waters of Drake Bay itself are also suitable for kayaking, and many hotels provide kayaks for guest use.
6. Terraba-Sierpe National Wetlands
A short boat ride away, the Terraba-Sierpe National Wetlands form the largest mangrove ecosystem in Costa Rica. Half-day or full-day tours are easily arranged through local lodges.
This area is especially rich in wildlife. Visitors frequently spot:
- Four species of monkeys
- Sloths
- Anteaters
- Crocodiles
- A wide variety of resident and migratory birds
Kayaking tours through the mangroves are particularly popular, offering a quiet and intimate experience with nature. Birdwatching here is exceptional during migratory months.
7. Dolphin and Whale Watching Tours
Drake Bay boasts the longest humpback whale watching season in the world, thanks to migrations from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Whales can be seen for much of the year, typically from July to October and December to April.
Over 25 species of dolphins and whales either live in or migrate through these waters. Common sightings include:
- Spinner dolphins
- Spotted dolphins
- Bottlenose dolphins
- Humpback whales
Spinner and bottlenose dolphins often ride the bow of boats and perform acrobatics, delighting visitors. One lodge, Delfín Amor, specializes in dolphin and whale watching and uses advanced techniques such as hydrophones and aerial spotting to maximize sightings.
8. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving at Caño Island
Caño Island Biological Reserve is one of Costa Rica’s top snorkeling and diving destinations. The island is surrounded by coral reefs and offers warm waters with good to excellent visibility year-round.
Marine life commonly seen includes reef fish, rays, turtles, sharks, and sometimes dolphins. While snorkeling and diving are possible throughout the year, the dry season generally provides the best visibility.
Trips to Caño Island are usually combined with a boat tour and a visit to secluded beaches, making it a full-day adventure.
9. Fishing Adventures
Both inshore and offshore fishing are popular in Drake Bay. Inshore fishing targets species such as roosterfish, jacks, black tuna, and mackerel. Offshore trips offer chances to catch sailfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, yellowfin tuna, and snapper.
Fishing trips can be arranged for half or full days and cater to both experienced anglers and beginners.
10. Surfing Remote Breaks
Surfing in Drake Bay is an adventure in itself. Most surf breaks are located at river mouths and are accessible only by boat. Notable spots include:
- Río Claro – rocky bottom break, one of the best in the area
- Playa Rincón – sandy bottom beach break
- Río Llorona – powerful waves that can reach up to five meters
The best conditions are typically from half-low to half-high tide. Because of the remote locations, these breaks are uncrowded and ideal for experienced surfers.
11. Community Festival in April
Each year in April, Drake Bay hosts a community-wide festival that brings together residents from nearby villages and visitors who happen to be in town. Activities include volleyball, soccer, traditional food stalls, and cultural events.
Proceeds from the festival benefit local schools, clinics, and public facilities in Agujitas, making it a meaningful way to experience local culture while supporting the community.
12. Shopping and Local Crafts
Shopping in Drake Bay is minimal, which adds to its charm. There is a small gift shop along the dirt road near the beach and elementary school, where you can find locally made souvenirs and crafts. Drake Bay is not about shopping—it’s about nature, simplicity, and connection.
Nearby Attractions
- Puerto Jiménez
- Caño Island Biological Reserve
- Corcovado National Park
- Terraba-Sierpe National Wetlands
Why Drake Bay Is So Special
Drake Bay is not a destination for travelers seeking nightlife, luxury malls, or paved sidewalks. It is for those who want to experience Costa Rica in its most raw, wild, and authentic form. With its incredible biodiversity, world-class wildlife encounters, and wide range of outdoor activities, boredom is impossible here.
If you are looking for adventure, nature, and a true escape from modern life, Drake Bay is one of Costa Rica’s greatest treasures—and one of the most unforgettable places you will ever visit.