Magic algae at Playa Guiones I recently had the opportunity to visit Playa Guiones, a beautiful beach located in Nosara, Costa Rica. While the beach itself was stunning, what truly captivated me was the presence of "magic algae" that magically lit up the shore at night. Playa Guiones is known for its bioluminescent algae, a natural phenomenon that occurs when certain types of algae emit a blue-green light when disturbed. This mesmerizing display of light is often referred to as "magic algae" or "sea sparkles," and it is a sight to behold. I had heard about this magical occurrence, but nothing could have prepared me for the actual experience. As the sun set and darkness settled over the beach, small waves crashing onto the shore stirred up the magic algae, causing the sand to light up in a vibrant blue glow.
Named for their olive color with their heart-shaped shell known as the carapace, Olive Ridley’s are one of the smallest of the sea turtles with adults reaching 2 to 2½ feet in length and weighing 80 to 110 pounds. Arribadas occur at least once a month, with peak numbers of these ladies of the sea emerging during the Green Season months of July to December.
An arribada is a Spanish term used for arrival and in the Nosara area, the word is synonymous with the mass synchronized nesting of Olive Ridley sea turtles on the black volcanic sands of Playa Ostinal. Just a few kilometres north of Playa Guiones, within the World Wildlife Fund s recognized conservation site of the Ostinal Wildlife Refuge, this year round phenomenon takes place to the delight of locals and tourists alike.
As the sun set and darkness settled over the beach, small waves crashing onto the shore stirred up the magic algae, causing the sand to light up in a vibrant blue glow. The effect was absolutely breathtaking, as if the beach was bathed in thousands of tiny stars. With each step I took, the sand glittered and sparkled beneath my feet, creating an enchanting and surreal atmosphere.
The Magical Arribadas of Playa Ostional
One of the most profound and beautiful biological encounters any wildlife enthusiast can experience locally is an “arribada”. An arribada is a Spanish term used for “arrival” and in the Nosara area, the word is synonymous with the mass synchronized nesting of Olive Ridley sea turtles on the black volcanic sands of Playa Ostinal. Just a few kilometres north of Playa Guiones, within the World Wildlife Fund’s recognized conservation site of the Ostinal Wildlife Refuge, this year round phenomenon takes place to the delight of locals and tourists alike.
Named for their olive color with their heart-shaped shell known as the carapace, Olive Ridley’s are one of the smallest of the sea turtles with adults reaching 2 to 2½ feet in length and weighing 80 to 110 pounds. Arribadas occur at least once a month, with peak numbers of these ladies of the sea emerging during the Green Season months of July to December.
Linked with the wind, tide and lunar cycles; just before a new moon, female turtles will gather off shore in groupings of hundreds and sometimes thousands in an oceanic tribal gathering of wait. When the elements align, collectively they will make their spectacular arrival to land, literally arriving within the waves. Once ashore, they slowly haul their heavy bodies from the surf to begin maneuvering up the beachscape as they waddle along making their unique patterned imprints in the sand. When each finds her ideal spot to create a pocket, using her hind flippers and in an almost in a trance-like state, she will deposit between 80 – 110 white soft-shelled eggs. Afterwards, she will cover up her shallow nest, leaving the offspring behind as she returns back to the ocean. The hatchlings will surface at night within 45 to 54 days of nesting depending on the atmospheric incubation temperatures. As soon as they emerge from the nest, these little ones will crawl as fast as possible to the sea, which is another awe-inspiring sight of Mother Nature to behold.
At Wanderlust Realty, we advocate visiting the Ostional arribada nesting site with sanctioned guides, through authorized access points, which honors their process respectfully.
For more information please contact:
Asociacion de Guias Locales de Ostional (AGLO) Costa Rica
Through Facebook or by calling +506-2682-0428
Guias Ostional Adio
Through Facebook or by calling +506-2682-1229
One of the most profound and beautiful biological encounters any wildlife enthusiast can experience locally is an “arribada”. An arribada is a Spanish term used for “arrival” and in the Nosara area, the word is synonymous with the mass synchronized nesting of Olive Ridley sea turtles on the black volcanic sands of Playa Ostinal. Just a few kilometres north of Playa Guiones, within the World Wildlife Fund’s recognized conservation site of the Ostinal Wildlife Refuge, this year round phenomenon takes place to the delight of locals and tourists alike.
I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and awe as I watched the waves roll in and witnessed the magic algae come to life. It was like being transported into a fantasy world, where nature itself seemed to possess a magical quality. This natural phenomenon, while awe-inspiring, is also fragile. The magic algae are highly sensitive to pollution and changes in water quality, making it crucial for us to protect and preserve the ecosystem of Playa Guiones. Visitors to the beach are encouraged to respect the environment and refrain from disturbing the algae by walking on them. This helps to ensure that future generations will be able to experience the same magic that I was fortunate enough to witness. The magic algae at Playa Guiones is a true wonder of the natural world, and it serves as a reminder of the beauty and magic that can be found in even the most unexpected places. It is a testament to the power and mystery of nature, and it is an experience that I will carry with me forever..
Reviews for "An immersive experience: swimming with Playa Guiones' magic algae"
1. John - 1 out of 5 stars
I was extremely disappointed with my visit to Playa Guiones to see the so-called "magic algae." There was hardly any information provided about what it was or why it was magical. Instead, we were just given a brief explanation by the tour guide and left to wander around aimlessly. The algae itself was not as impressive as I had hoped, and I felt like I wasted my time and money on this excursion.
2. Sarah - 2 out of 5 stars
I had heard so much about the magic algae at Playa Guiones, but unfortunately, it did not live up to the hype. The whole experience felt rushed and disorganized. There were too many people crowding around the algae, making it difficult to get a good view or take decent photos. Additionally, the algae didn't look much different from regular algae, so I was left feeling underwhelmed. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this attraction unless you're a die-hard nature enthusiast.
3. Mark - 1 out of 5 stars
I had high expectations for the magic algae at Playa Guiones, but it turned out to be a major letdown. The tour was poorly organized, and the guides didn't provide much information or answer any of our questions. The algae itself was quite underwhelming, and there wasn't anything particularly magical about it. I felt like I wasted my time and money on a tourist trap. Save your visit to Playa Guiones for something more worthwhile.