Aerial view of a rocky shoreline with green foliage and ocean waters near Punta Leona Beach Club & Nature Resort

Regenerative tourism in Costa Rica

Costa Rica ecotourism

Sustainable tourism has been a cornerstone of nature conservation and minimizing environmental impact for over 30 years. Today, the planet demands a more proactive approach: replenishing and restoring. Since its founding in 1974, Punta Leona has been a pioneer in sustainability and is now leading the way with our "regenerative tourism" model. This approach emphasizes the deep connection between human beings, nature, and the community.

Healing sounds of nature

At Punta Leona Beach Club and Nature Resort, we embrace a holistic approach to tourism, integrating nature with the community, tourists, culture, economy, and spirituality. We view tourism as a comprehensive activity that influences all aspects of life and strive to create a harmonious balance between them.

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Close-up of scarlet macaw nibbling on a leaf in reserve at Punta Leona Beach Club & Nature Resort

Scarlet Macaw (Ara Macaw) Regeneration Program

In response to the alarming decline in the scarlet macaw population, we launched a comprehensive free-ranging macaw conservation program in 1994, led by Dr. Christopher Vaughan. Through collaboration with the community, educators, and scientists, we have significantly increased the macaw population and expanded their observed territory from nearly 600 km² in the mid-90s to about 2,400 km² in 2022. Key actions include the installation of artificial nests, 24/7 monitoring cameras, environmental education in schools, and planting trees that provide food and shelter.

Regenerative Reef Project

After decades of forest conservation, we began to "reforest" our oceans in 2019, in partnership with the MAREBLU Environmental Conservation Organization. By constructing dome-shaped marine cement structures, we provide shelter, food, and breeding grounds for marine life. Located in Playa Blanca, this project aims to install around 200 structures, supporting marine biodiversity and contributing to the ecological restoration of the Gulf of Nicoya.

Underwater Museum with reef structure on the ocean floor at Punta Leona Beach Club & Nature Resort

Person holding a fishing rod over water with a colorful bait attached near Punta Leona Beach Club & Nature Resort

Coral Cultivation Project

In alliance with the INA Fishing Nautical Nucleus, we initiated coral gardening in 2020 to restore coral reef populations. This project aims to restore these crucial marine biodiversity areas, protect the coast against erosion, and provide habitat for numerous species.

Underwater Museum

The Punta Leona Underwater Museum, the first of its kind in Central America, merges art with regeneration. Currently, it features nine marine sculptures, including a nearly 5-meter-tall Cacique Garabito, that attract marine life and serve as refuges, breeding, and feeding sites for various species. This project seeks to bring the public closer to the marine environment, promoting conservation through a visual and educational experience. You can explore the museum by snorkeling, especially at low tide, or for a more adventurous experience, diving with our Dive Center guides.

Close-up of a baby turtle in sandy beach near Punta Leona Beach Club & Nature Resort

Olive Ridley Turtle Conservation Program

Under the supervision of a marine biology specialist, we conduct patrols and relocate Olive Ridley Turtle nests to safe areas to increase their survival rates. These efforts protect the nests, primarily on Playa Blanca beach and occasionally on Playa Mantas beach, from natural predators and human-caused accidents, ensuring a safer environment for these endangered turtles.