Every year, the Pacific coast of Costa Rica becomes the stage for one of nature’s most spectacular events — the arrival of humpback whales. These ocean wanderers travel thousands of kilometres to reach our warm tropical waters, where they give birth, raise their young, and share their enchanting songs beneath the waves.
Here in Santa Teresa, we are lucky to witness this incredible migration up close. From the towering breaches to the quiet rise of a mother and calf, humpback whales capture the hearts of all who see them. But their presence is not just a spectacle; it is a vital reminder of the ocean's delicate balance and the importance of local care and responsibility.
Fun Facts About Humpback Whales in Costa Rica
- Costa Rica hosts two migrations: humpbacks come from both the Southern and Northern Hemispheres. Southern whales arrive from Antarctica (July–October), while Northern whales visit from Alaska (January–February).
- They are famous singers: Male humpbacks sing long, complex songs to communicate during breeding season. These songs can be heard underwater for kilometres and change slightly each year.
- They are surprisingly acrobatic: Despite weighing up to 40 tonnes, humpbacks are known for breaching, tail slapping, and spy-hopping — behaviors that thrill lucky observers from boats, beaches, and even the surf line-up.
- Calves are born here: Costa Rica’s warm, protected bays provide ideal nursery grounds for new-borns, who stay close to their mothers for up to a year.
Why Humpbacks Matter to Costa Rica
The presence of humpback whales in Costa Rica highlights the country's role in global marine conservation. These migratory giants depend on healthy, quiet, and clean coastal habitats to rest, give birth, and nurse their young. Local communities have a unique opportunity to protect these spaces through awareness, education, and respect.
Whales are also cultural ambassadors. Teaching locals — especially young people — about these animals connects them to the ocean and inspires pride in their coastal heritage. By learning about whale migrations, behaviours, and vulnerabilities, people can become powerful advocates for marine protection.
The Importance of Education, Research & Community Engagement
Education, research, and local engagement are powerful tools for whale conservation. By learning about humpback whales and their migratory patterns, here in our Santa Teresa community, we can build pride in their natural heritage and become more active in protecting it.
Introducing children, families, and locals to whales through school programmes, workshops, and field experiences helps deepen their connection to the ocean. Presentations on whale biology and conservation issues can create curiosity and understanding, laying the groundwork for a generation that values marine life.
Community-based science, such as recording whale sightings, identifying individual whales, and collecting acoustic data, plays a growing role in Costa Rica’s national whale research efforts. Local participation in this work not only strengthens scientific outcomes but empowers people to feel they are part of the solution. Everyone — whether a student, a surfer, or a business owner — can play a part. Documenting sightings, sharing photos, and learning how to observe whales responsibly all contribute to national and international research databases.
Listening Beneath the Waves
One of the most captivating aspects of humpbacks is their song. Using underwater hydrophones, people can listen to the live, melodic calls of whales during their breeding season. These songs create emotional connections and help spark curiosity among listeners of all ages.
Incorporating this acoustic experience into educational activities deepens understanding of whale behaviour and communication. It also highlights the importance of quiet marine spaces, free from excessive boat traffic or underwater noise pollution.
Responsible Encounters
With more people seeking to experience wildlife, it is crucial to approach whale watching with care. The wrong kind of tourism can cause stress or injury to whales. Education about responsible practices is just as important for locals as it is for tourists.
Respecting distance, avoiding engine noise, and never chasing or encircling whales are all simple ways to reduce harm. By modelling good behaviour, locals can help ensure that Costa Rica remains a safe haven for humpbacks.
Iguana Divers offer accessible, immersive educational whale tours and participate in national citizen science efforts. These small-group trips combine marine biology presentations, acoustic listening, and data collection to support conservation.
Information offered by Iguana Divers | info@iguanadivers.com | +50684385887
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