Each year, Parrita along the coast of Puntarenas pulses with the quiet urgency of sea turtle conservation. The annual events invite adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike to engage directly with a cycle fierce yet fragile—nesting and hatching sea turtles reclaiming their ancestral beaches. The setting is a dynamic stretch of coastline, where the surf dares you closer and the sand holds stories etched by these ancient travelers.

Participants often begin with an evening hike under the watchful moon, traversing roughly 3 to 5 kilometers of primarily flat, sandy terrain that winds alongside the forest edge. The path is forgiving in elevation, rarely climbing more than 50 meters, but the soft sand can sap energy more than expected. Footwear with good traction and breathability will help maintain steady progress.

The coastal forest bordering the beach stands as a silent observer, its leaves rustling with an almost sentient awareness. In this environment, humidity wraps around you like a second skin, intensifying as night falls. Hydration is key: aim for at least 1.5 liters per person during the event to stay ahead of the damp heat.

The real draw comes after dark when volunteers walk alongside conservation teams as they carefully unearth nests to count eggs or gently escort hatchlings to the ocean’s edge. The sea seems to pull with an urgency, currents rolling forward like a call to action for both turtles and humans charged with protecting them. This is a shared battle against poachers, predators, and time itself.

Safety and respect for the creatures are paramount—flashlights used should have red filters to avoid disturbing the turtles, and distancing rules are strictly enforced to minimize human impact. The experience offers not only a chance to witness the resilient lifecycle of sea turtles but also practical understanding of conservation principles.

For those planning to take part, arrive prepared for humid nights and variable weather. Lightweight rain gear and insect repellent are recommended. The event typically runs from July through November, aligning with the turtle nesting season, but be aware that higher winds and occasional storms call for flexible planning.

This annual ritual in Parrita is an unvarnished adventure where every step matters, both on the trail and in the ongoing efforts to ensure these ocean voyagers thrive for generations ahead.