San José, Costa Rica (June 8, 2026) — As World Oceans Day highlights the importance of protecting the world’s oceans, Costa Rica continues to demonstrate global leadership in marine conservation, protecting more than 30% of its marine territory while connecting conservation, wildlife protection, and tourism in meaningful ways.
Despite covering less than one percent of the Earth’s surface, Costa Rica is home to approximately 6.5% of the world’s biodiversity, much of which depends on healthy marine ecosystems. From sea turtle nesting beaches and coral ecosystems to whale migration routes and protected marine reserves, the country has made ocean protection a national priority.
Costa Rica’s commitment to conservation extends beyond policy and protected areas to include research, wildlife rescue, education, and sustainable tourism experiences that allow visitors to connect directly with marine conservation efforts.
Marine experiences in Costa Rica include:
- Sea turtle nesting and conservation programs on both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts
- Whale and dolphin watching in Ballena National Park
- Snorkelling and diving in protected marine areas such as Cahuita National Park
- Mangrove and coastal ecosystem tours
- Community-led coastal conservation initiatives
This conservation-first mindset also shapes how travellers experience the country. Often referred to as “Green Glove” travel, Costa Rica’s approach integrates sustainability, nature, wellness, and cultural connection into the visitor experience. Rather than requiring travellers to seek out eco-tourism, sustainability is embedded into everyday travel experiences, from exploring protected coastlines and national parks to participating in conservation initiatives and community-led experiences.
Costa Rica’s coastlines, rainforests, and wildlife habitats together form what the country calls its “natural intelligence,” a reminder of the deep connection between people, nature, and the environment – both on land and in the ocean.
“As a country surrounded by ocean and rich in marine biodiversity, protecting our oceans is not just an environmental priority, it is part of who we are,” said Adalberto Rodríguez, Market Coordinator (USA & Canada) for the Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT). “World Oceans Day is an opportunity to recognize the importance of marine conservation and to invite travellers to experience these ecosystems responsibly and respectfully.”
This World Oceans Day, Costa Rica invites travellers to discover not only beautiful coastlines and marine wildlife, but also the conservation efforts that protect them for future generations.
