Isla San Lucas, Isla Venado and the Floating Restaurant
A single group departure into the Gulf of Nicoya: the former prison island of San Lucas, now a national park, lunch at the floating restaurant off Isla Venado, and a run past several islands of the gulf.
One day, one departure, and a corner of Costa Rica that most people who live here have never seen. We leave the Greater Metropolitan Area early and head for Puntarenas, where a boat with every permit and policy in order takes us out into the Gulf of Nicoya.
The first stop is Isla San Lucas. For more than a century this was Costa Rica's harshest prison; today it is a national park, and walking through the old cell blocks, the chapel and the paths now taken back by dry forest is an experience closer to history than to a beach day. Entrance is included.
From there we sail to Isla Venado for lunch at the floating restaurant, on the water and with the gulf all around, before touring several of the islands on the way back. Fresh fruit and bottled water travel with us the whole way.
This is a single scheduled departure with limited seats, sold in colones for travellers leaving from San José, Heredia and Alajuela.
Highlights
Frequently asked questions
How much does Isla San Lucas, Isla Venado and the Floating Restaurant cost?
₡45.000 per person · 13% VAT included. This is a flat rate for this departure.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. Request a quote and our local team confirms availability for your dates, usually within the hour. No payment is taken online; you pay only after we confirm.
What's included?
Day tour of Isla San Lucas, Isla Venado and the floating restaurant; Land transport departing from the Greater Metropolitan Area (San José, Heredia and Alajuela); Fruit and bottled water during the journey; Boat transport with all the corresponding permits and insurance; Entrance to Isla San Lucas; Lunch at the floating restaurant of Isla Venado; Tour past several islands of the gulf.
What's not included?
Dinner and any meals outside the ones listed; Personal expenses, souvenirs and tips.
What should I know before I go?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and light clothing you do not mind getting wet; Closed-toe shoes with grip make the walk around the old penitentiary easier; Boarding requires going up and down a boat ladder, so mobility should be reasonably good; Seats are limited and confirmed in order of payment.
Can I cancel or change my dates?
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before your trip. See our Terms & Conditions for the full policy.
No payment now, and free cancellation up to 48h before your trip. See policy.
Licensed & regulated tour operator · Declaratoria Turística DGRE-0174-2026