Plizio Visual Lab
Cano Island
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
Weather…
Water temperature…
Caño Island, officially known as the Isla del Caño Biological Reserve, is situated approximately 15 kilometers off the coast of the Osa Peninsula in the Pacific Ocean. The island encompasses a land area of about 320 hectares and is encircled by a vast marine protected area of roughly 5,800 hectares. Geologically, the island is composed of sedimentary rock and basalt, reflecting volcanic activity from the distant past. Beyond its natural allure, the island is a significant archaeological site where numerous pre-Columbian stone spheres have been discovered. It is believed that the island served as a sacred site or burial ground for the indigenous Diquís people centuries ago. Underwater, Caño has some of the best diving and snorkeling experiences in Costa Rica, with visibility often exceeding 20 meters. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, including manta rays, white-tipped reef sharks, sea turtles, and a diverse array of coral reef fish. Due to its strict protection status, visitor access is regulated to maintain the delicate ecological balance of the reserve.
- Location: Costa Rica
- Nearby: Dominical (6 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 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 76 | 44 | 62 | 147 | 331 | 283 | 362 | 317 | 285 | 334 | 332 | 154 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Cano Island is a biological reserve and can only be visited on authorized tours. Visitors must join a guided group to set foot on the island.
Typical hours
Tours to the island typically depart early morning from the coast (e.g., Drake Bay or Bahía). Exact departure times vary by operator and should be booked in advance.
Photography
Photography on the island is generally allowed, but without disturbing wildlife. Underwater shots are possible while snorkeling, a waterproof camera is recommended.
Time needed
A day trip to Cano Island usually takes 6-8 hours, including boat ride, snorkeling and a short hike. The time spent on the island is about 3-4 hours.
Combine with
The island lies off the Osa Peninsula, which also hosts Corcovado National Park. Combining with a visit to the park or Drake Bay is natural.
Getting there
The island is only accessible by boat. Tours usually depart from Drake Bay or Sierpe. You can fly to Drake Bay or take a bus to Sierpe.
Insider tip
Book the tour at least a day in advance and bring sunscreen, swimwear and a towel. The best underwater visibility is in the dry season from December to April.
Geography
Facts
- Located 15 km west of the Osa Peninsula
- Covers 320 hectares of land and 5,800 hectares of sea
- Major site for pre-Columbian Diquís stone spheres
- Underwater visibility frequently exceeds 20 meters
- Teeming with manta rays and white-tipped reef sharks
- Official biological reserve with strictly regulated access
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 Cano Island (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Isla del Caño good for diving?
Yes, it is one of the best spots in Costa Rica for diving and snorkeling.
Are you allowed to go on the island?
Access to the island itself is very limited; visitors usually stay on the beach.
What animals can be seen underwater?
Reef sharks, rays, sea turtles, and many colorful fish.
How do you get to the island?
By boat from Drake Bay or Uvita.
Are there archaeological finds there?
Yes, mysterious stone spheres have been found on the island.
Cano Island: where is it located?
Cano Island is located in Costa Rica.
Cano Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Cano Island: why is it worth visiting?
Caño Island, officially known as the Isla del Caño Biological Reserve, is situated approximately 15 kilometers off the coast of the Osa Peninsula in the Pacific Ocean.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in North America
More places in Costa Rica →
Nearby cities
San José
The capital and largest city located in the Central Valley.
Alajuela
Second largest city, located near the main international airport.
Liberia
Capital of Guanacaste province, gateway to beaches and national parks.
Cartago
The former capital, known for the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels.
Heredia
The 'City of Flowers', known for colonial architecture and its university.
Tamarindo
A popular coastal town and major surfing destination in Guanacaste.
Playa Grande
Playa Grande is a vast, protected beach known as a world-class surfing destination and a crucial nesting site for leatherback turtles.
Brasilito
A charming, traditional Costa Rican fishing village in Guanacaste, known for its authentic vibe and nearby beaches.
Playa Flamingo
Playa Flamingo is an upscale resort town known for its gorgeous white-sand crescent beach, luxury villas, and a world-class marina.
Junquillal
A tranquil, expansive beach celebrated for its ecological preservation and sea turtle nesting grounds.
Playa Conchal
Playa Conchal is an exquisite beach unique for its sand made entirely of millions of crushed seashells, bordered by crystal-clear turquoi…
Playa Negra
A legendary surfing beach in Guanacaste featuring dark sand, world-class waves, and rustic coastal charm.
Playa Avellanas
Playa Avellanas is a stunning beach in Guanacaste, famous for its world-class surfing and laid-back vibe.
History & landmarks
Marino Ballena National Park
Famous for its whale-tail-shaped rock formation and humpback whale watching.
San Jose Cathedral
The main cathedral of the capital city, featuring a blend of architectural styles.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Famous for its beaches, jungle, and immense biodiversity.
Corcovado National Park
One of the most biologically intense places on Earth on the Osa Peninsula.
Tortuguero National Park
The 'Amazon of Costa Rica', famous for nesting sea turtles.
La Fortuna Waterfall
A stunning 70-meter-high waterfall located near the Arenal Volcano.
Tortuga Island
A picturesque island famous for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Nature
Pacuare River
World-famous for white-water rafting through breathtaking tropical gorges.
Reventazon River
An important river for hydroelectric power and popular for water sports.
Lake Arenal
The country's largest lake, situated at the base of the majestic Arenal Volcano.
Rio Celeste
A river known for its bright light blue color caused by volcanic minerals.
More places
Ruins of Ujarras
The remains of one of the oldest churches in Costa Rica, dating back to the 16th century.
Irazú Volcano
The highest volcano in Costa Rica, featuring a green crater lake.
Guayabo National Monument
The most important archaeological site in Costa Rica from the pre-Columbian era.
El Fortin
A historic fortification tower in Heredia and a landmark of the city.
Poás Volcano
An active volcano featuring a spectacular, acidic crater lake.
Cerro Chirripo
The highest mountain in Costa Rica, offering views of both the Pacific and Caribbean.
Arenal Volcano
A perfectly cone-shaped volcano surrounded by hot springs.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
A mystical cloud forest reserve, home to the resplendent quetzal.