Boating

Rocky Isla El Capitán, just offshore, is a close-in kayaking destination, full of sand-dollar shells. Exploring the tidal estuaries north and south of town is best done in a kayak at high tide, when you can travel farther up the temporary rivers. Arrange kayaking trips through your hotel. A number of boats offer sunset trips that allow you to snorkel, and provide food and beverages.

Blue Dolphin Sailing. Set sail on a 40-foot catamaran for an afternoon of sunning, snorkeling, and kayaking aboard the Blue Dolphin. The boat departs at 1 pm from the beach next to El Chiringuito Restaurant and returns around sunset. It's $85 per person, including a light meal and open bar. During high season there's also a morning tour, from 8 am to noon, for $70 (including snorkel gear and fishing poles). The boat is also available for private tours. Tamarindo, Guanacaste. 8842–3204; 855/842–3204; www.bluedolphinsailing.com. From $70.

Iguana Surf. This longtime surf shop, with an office across from the beach, organizes jungle boat tours of the Tamarindo Estuary and offers a full roster of local tours, including snorkeling. Across from beach, 100 m north of El Diriá Hotel, Tamarindo, Guanacaste, 50309. 2653–0613; www.iguanasurf.net. From $50.

Marlin del Rey Sailing Tours. This custom-built, 66-foot catamaran, with a large, comfortable main saloon, takes you on a day tour ($75, minimum 15 people) that includes snorkeling, an open bar, lunch, and snacks. It leaves at 8 am. The sunset tour departs at 1:30 pm ($85, no minimum), with time to snorkel, walk along a deserted beach, and enjoy the open bar and a gourmet feast, complete with homemade chocolate-chip cookies. Plaza Esmeralda, next to Subway, Tamarindo, Guanacaste. 2653–1212; 877/827–8275; www.marlindelrey.com. From $75.