During the night we arrived at the remote Santa Elena Bay. The ship anchored in the calm, turquoise waters, surrounded by rugged cliffs and dense tropical dry forest. Early in the morning, we set out on a panga ride to explore the bay and later the trails that wound through the forest. The scent of warm earth and blooming pink tabebuias filled the air. Loud howler monkeys called from the treetops, and colorful trogons darted between branches. The trail led to a breathtaking overlook, where the vast Pacific stretched to the border with Nicaragua on the horizon.
In the afternoon, we kayaked along the mangrove-lined shore. The rhythmic dip of paddles echoed across the water as we glided past hidden coves and rocky outcroppings. Schools of fish shimmered below, and a sea turtle surfaced briefly before disappearing into the depths.
As the sun set, we returned to the ship, reflecting on the bay’s raw beauty. Santa Elena had revealed its secrets, offering a glimpse into one of Costa Rica’s most pristine and untouched coastal treasures.