Plizio Visual Lab
Bat Islands (Murciélago)
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Historical site
Weather…
Water temperature…
The Bat Islands (Islas Murciélago) are a remote archipelago off the coast of Guanacaste and part of Santa Rosa National Park. These volcanic islands are world-renowned for their exceptional marine biodiversity and are considered one of the premier diving destinations in Central America. The site is particularly famous for 'The Big Scare,' a diving spot where divers can encounter bull sharks in their natural habitat. The waters surrounding the islands are nutrient-rich, attracting large schools of manta rays, whale sharks, and sea turtles. While the islands themselves are uninhabited, they serve as crucial nesting grounds for numerous seabird species. Due to strong currents and the depth of the dive sites, the islands are primarily recommended for experienced divers. Their protected status as part of the Guanacaste Conservation Area ensures the preservation of this fragile marine ecosystem against overfishing.
- Location: Costa Rica
- Nearby: Brasilito (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 3 | 2 | 3 | 30 | 274 | 304 | 215 | 267 | 393 | 448 | 210 | 17 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Bat Islands (Murciélago) are part of Santa Rosa National Park and accessible by boat. Visitors can only set foot on the islands as part of a guided tour or with a national park permit.
Typical hours
The national park is typically open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; boat tours usually depart early in the morning. Advance reservation is strongly recommended as spaces are limited.
Photography
Photography is allowed on the islands, but drone use is generally prohibited in the national park. The bird and bat colonies offer unique shots; keep a respectful distance.
Time needed
A day trip to the Bat Islands typically takes 5 to 7 hours including boat ride and island visit. Actual time spent on the islands is about 2 to 3 hours.
Combine with
Combine the visit with Santa Rosa National Park itself, which has hiking trails and beaches. The nearby Playa Naranjo and Playa Blanca beaches are also worth a detour.
Getting there
The starting point for boat tours is either Playa Naranjo beach or the Santa Rosa park entrance. The best way to reach the park is by rental car; organized tours however also offer pickup from surrounding hotels.
Insider tip
Book your tour at least a day in advance, especially in the dry season, as boats fill up quickly. Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as there is no shade on the islands.
Geography
Facts
- The archipelago consists of 5 larger islands and numerous smaller ones.
- The 'Big Scare' dive site is famous for sightings of bull sharks.
- They have been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999.
- The boat trip from Playas del Coco takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Strong winds between December and March often limit access.
- Critical corridor for migratory marine species in the Pacific.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Bat Islands (Murciélago) (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why are the Bat Islands known?
Because of world-class diving spots and the opportunity to see bull sharks.
Can you stay overnight on the islands?
No, the islands are part of a national park and uninhabited; visits are by boat day tours.
How difficult is diving there?
It is more suitable for experienced divers, as there are often strong currents.
Are there really bats there?
Yes, the name comes from the large colonies living in the caves of the cliffs.
Where do the tours start?
Mostly from Playas del Coco or other locations in Guanacaste province.
Bat Islands (Murciélago): where is it located?
Bat Islands (Murciélago) is located in Costa Rica.
Bat Islands (Murciélago): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Bat Islands (Murciélago): why is it worth visiting?
The Bat Islands (Islas Murciélago) are a remote archipelago off the coast of Guanacaste and part of Santa Rosa National Park.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in North America
More places in Costa Rica →
Nearby cities
Cañas
A vital town in Guanacaste, known for its hot climate and agricultural prominence in the region.
Nicoya
Considered a historical and cultural heart of the Guanacaste province, famous for its colonial architecture and traditional local cuisine.
Santa Cruz
Known as the 'National Folklore City' of Costa Rica, it is a primary hub for cultural celebrations and traditional music in the Guanacast…
Tilarán
A town known for its pleasant climate and its role as a gateway to Lake Arenal.
Bagaces
Located in the dry forest region, Bagaces is famous for its hot springs, waterfalls, and its proximity to the Rincon de la Vieja National…
Hojancha
A community recognized for its efforts in reforestation and environmental conservation, located in the mountainous part of the Nicoya Pen…
Bijagua
A peaceful town serving as the gateway to the magical blue waters of Rio Celeste.
Sámara
A popular coastal village on the Nicoya Peninsula, known for its beautiful bay, sandy beach, and laid-back surf culture.
Potrero
A quiet, picturesque bay town in Guanacaste, favored by expats and sailors for its calm waters and beautiful sunsets.
Ostional
A globally renowned wildlife refuge in Guanacaste, heavily famous for the mass nesting of olive ridley sea turtles.
Playas del Coco
One of the most popular beach towns in Guanacaste, well-known for its vibrant nightlife, boat tours, and proximity to great diving sites.
Playa Hermosa (Guanacaste)
Playa Hermosa is a stunning, family-friendly beach town in Guanacaste, known for its calm waters, beautiful gray sands, and relaxed resor…
Nosara
A renowned destination for yoga, surf, and wellness, known for its pristine beaches and focus on sustainable development.
Filadelfia
The administrative center of the Carrillo canton, situated in the dry tropical region of Guanacaste.
Belén de Carrillo
A small town in the Guanacaste province, serving as a local center for agriculture and cattle production in the Carrillo canton.
History & landmarks
Surfing Culture in Tamarindo
The laid-back lifestyle on the Pacific coast.
Chorotega Pottery
Traditional Chorotega pottery uses ancient pre-Columbian techniques and natural pigments to create beautiful ceramic art.
Sabanero Culture
The proud cowboy tradition of the Guanacaste plains.
Marimba Sounds of Guanacaste
Traditional music celebrating the region's cultural heritage.
Costa Rica-Taiwan Friendship Bridge
The Taiwan Friendship Bridge spans the Tempisque River, significantly improving travel to the Nicoya Peninsula.
More places
Puerto Tamarindo
A port terminal facility supporting the commercial and logistical needs of the Guanacaste coastal region.
🗺️
Cabuyal Petroglyphs
Another significant site of rock carvings in Guanacaste, offering insights into the lives of pre-Columbian peoples.
La Casona of Santa Rosa
A historic ranch house and the site of the Battle of Santa Rosa in 1856, where Costa Rican forces defeated invaders.
Santa Rosa Battlefield
Site of the famous 1856 battle where Costa Rican forces defeated the filibusters of William Walker.
Traditional Tortilla Making
The art of making corn tortillas by hand on a clay comal is a cherished culinary tradition inherited from indigenous cultures.
Nicoya Church
The Church of San Blas in Nicoya is one of the country's most significant colonial landmarks, founded in the 16th century.
Río Negro Petroglyphs
A collection of over 1,500-year-old pre-Columbian rock carvings near the Rincón de la Vieja National Park.
🗺️
Hacienda El Viejo
A historic sugarcane hacienda in Guanacaste that offers insights into the Sabanero (Costa Rican cowboy) culture and sugar production.