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There are snorkeling spots… and then there’s Caño Island, Costa Rica’s underwater crown jewel. Floating above its protected reefs feels like swimming through a screensaver — except everything’s real and possibly staring back at you. Whether you’re diving deep or just bobbing around with a snorkel, here are 6 sea animals at Caño Island that you’re going to absolutely love spotting.
Animals at Caño Island
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or someone who just learned how to clear a snorkel mask, Caño Island delivers. The visibility is crystal-clear, the reef is alive, and the wildlife? Let’s just say it’s like swimming through a National Geographic episode — but with better weather.
Sea Turtles (a.k.a. Everyone’s Favorite)
If you don’t get a little emotional the first time you swim alongside a sea turtle, check your pulse. These gentle giants — mostly green sea turtles and hawksbills — glide effortlessly through the water like zen masters. Caño Island is a safe haven for them, and you’ve got a great chance of seeing them up close. Just don’t chase — they’ve been doing this longer than you’ve been alive.
Whitetip Reef Sharks
Don’t worry, they’re chill. These sleek little sharks love to nap in sandy patches or under coral shelves, and they’re a regular sight for divers at Caño. They’re more curious than aggressive, and if you’re lucky, you might see several lounging together like it’s a sharky slumber party. Swimming near one is thrilling — but also oddly calming. Just keep your hands to yourself.
Spotted Eagle Rays at Caño Island
Imagine a stingray… now give it polka dots and wings. That’s a spotted eagle ray. These beauties flap through the water like underwater birds, often gliding solo or in small groups. They’re one of the most elegant things you’ll see at Caño Island, and if you catch one gliding beneath you, it’s the kind of moment you’ll be thinking about on the plane ride home.
Moorish Idols and Other Color Bombs
Caño Island is bursting with tropical fish that look like they were designed by someone with a crayon addiction. Moorish idols (yes, the “Gill” from Finding Nemo) are among the most photogenic, with their yellow-white-black stripes and long trailing fins. You’ll also see sergeant majors, parrotfish, angelfish — it’s basically an underwater fiesta.
Animals at Caño Island – Dolphins (If You’re Lucky)
While not a guaranteed sighting near the reef, dolphins are often spotted on the boat ride to or from Caño Island. Bottlenose and spinner dolphins love to surf the bow waves and show off. If your captain suddenly veers to the side and yells “¡Delfines!” — don’t hesitate, just look. And maybe cry a little.
Massive Schools of Jacks and Snappers
Sometimes it’s not about one animal — it’s about thousands moving like one. Caño Island is known for its swirling silver schools of bigeye trevallies, snappers, and jacks. Swimming into a cloud of fish is the closest thing to feeling like part of the ocean. It’s hypnotic, humbling, and slightly disorienting — in the best way.
Animals at Caño Island – Want to See Them for Real?
At GoExploreWith.me, we offer snorkeling and diving tours to Caño Island with experienced guides who know exactly where the magic happens. Whether you’re a total beginner or a certified diver chasing sharks (peacefully), we’ve got the trip that fits your vibe.
Into Wild Places and Hidden Gems?
Don’t forget to download our free eBook: “10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of” — it’s packed with wild beaches, secret waterfalls, and off-the-radar spots that’ll blow your flip-flops off.
Get it now, and explore Costa Rica beyond the guidebooks.
