Slide off the Quepos marina and into a private half-day reef spearfishing tour around Manuel Antonio’s offshore islets. Guided freediving, rubber spearguns and local knowledge put you on reef species like snapper and barracuda while you learn safety and sustainable catch practices.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The boat slips away from the Quepos marina and the Pacific opens, a wind-creased mirror dotted with rocky islets. Guides point to a low, jagged line on the horizon — the reef — and the engine softens as the crew prepares gear. In the next hour you trade the boat’s steady hum for the pulse of the sea, slipping over reefs where schools scatter and a lone barracuda watches like a shadow.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Should be a comfortable swimmer with basic breath-hold ability; moderate cardiovascular fitness recommended.
Wildlife
History
Manuel Antonio National Park and the surrounding coastline were designated and protected in the 1970s as tourism grew, preserving small pockets of rainforest and marine habitat near Quepos.
Conservation
Spearfishing in Costa Rica is regulated; work with local guides, avoid protected species, and use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce impact on reef ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Half day Private Reef Spearfishing in Manuel Antonio today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Be a confident swimmer
This trip requires open-ocean swimming and breath-hold dives; if you’re uncomfortable in swell, request shallower, protected spots.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Chemical sunscreens damage coral and reefs — choose mineral, biodegradable sunscreen to protect marine life.
Hydrate and snack beforehand
Bring water and a light snack; dehydration worsens fatigue on breath-hold dives and boat rides.
Follow guide instructions
Speargun handling, target species and safe approach are taught by guides — obey instructions for safety and legal compliance.
Mask and snorkel
A personal mask ensures fit and comfort during repeated dives despite operator-provided equipment.
Rashguard or shorty wetsuit
Protects against sun, jellyfish and chafing during long swims and surface intervals.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the marine environment; required in many local conservation areas.
Waterproof ID and small dry bag
Keeps phone, ID and small items dry on a wet boat and during boarding.