Damas Mangroves Paddleboard Tour

Calm Mangrove Waters

Unique Wildlife

Family-friendly Activity

Paddle in One of Costa Rica’s Most Diverse Ecosystems

Mangroves are trees or shrubs that grow along salt or brackish water. They have tangles of exposed roots, which allow them to withstand changing water tides. Mangroves help reduce erosion and their complex root systems attract fish and other animals seeking nutrients and shelter. For this reason the Isla Damas mangroves are one of Costa Rica’s most eco-diverse areas and are vital for the preservation of many wildlife species. Come meet the variety of creatures that call this island home while navigating the tight quarters of the mangroves on our eco-friendly paddle boards!

Why Book With Paddle 9?

See white-faced capuchin monkeys, iguanas and a plethora of bird species

The gentle waters of the Isla Damas Mangroves make paddling easy so you can focus on taking in the spectacular wildlife all around you

Our informative local guides will teach you all you ever wanted to know about this unique Costa Rican island and the ecosystem it supports

Trip Details

Pricing & Logistics

Price

$80 per person
+ 13% sales tax

Departure time

Dependent on high tide, please contact us to schedule

Meeting point

The Paddle 9 tour office in Quepos or we can provide transportation from anywhere in Quepos or Manuel Antonio.

Pickups outside of Quepos or Manuel Antonio are available for an additional cost. For more information or to schedule a pick up outside of these areas, please contact us.

Availability

Available daily, all year round*

*Tide permitting

Duration

3.5 hours

Group size

2 person minimum – 16 person maximum

Included

Transportation
Snacks
Water
Certified guide
All gear

Not included

Picture package (available at an extra cost)
Guide gratuity

What to bring

Sandals or flip flops
Towel
Sunscreen
Bug spray

Trip Overview

This half-day tour starts when we pick you up from your accommodations in Manuel Antonio or Quepos before heading to the mangroves for your Isla Damas paddleboard tour. Nature and wildlife are in abundance on this tour. We will be on the lookout for monkeys, birds, marine wildlife, and reptiles. You will also learn all about the mangrove tree species and why the ecosystem is so important to Costa Rica. This tour is great for all ages and levels, it is very easy to paddle the Isla Damas mangroves as the water is very calm.

Good to Know

Please advise us of any health conditions, recent injuries (especially back, neck or shoulder surgeries) or medical procedures that could affect your tour experience. Let us know about pregnancy, back pains, and any walking as well as dietary restrictions or preferences.

We have two rules at Paddle 9: 1) Be safe! and 2) Have serious fun! Paddle 9 prides itself in running safe tours and transport with the best logistics and safety procedures in the industry. Our guides and staff are well-trained in emergency situations and take your safety very seriously. Should an accident occur, we are covered by a comprehensive umbrella liability insurance policy.

Have more questions? You can check out our FAQ page.

Don’t Just Take Our Word For It!

					Paddle 9 is a top tier operator in Manuel Antonio, and that reputation is well deserved. The experience itself is excellent and very much in line with what others have shared.One point that may be helpful for future guests relates to the photography.Photos are offered as an optional add on and are tied to participation in certain activities, such as jumps. If those activities are not done, a limited number of photos may be provided at no cost (but this is not guaranteed I believe). If they are done, the photos are included as part of a paid package.When asking about pricing in advance, the explanation was not entirely clear. While there is no obligation to purchase, the structure would benefit from more upfront transparency so expectations are set before the tour begins.This seems to be a common approach for tours, but for an operator of this quality, clearer communication around pricing would make an already strong experience even better.
read moreread less
(opens in a new tab)
Allen
4/16/2026
					We had an unforgettable day thanks to the Paddle 9 crew. We were part of a small group tour. Every minute of the tour was thought out, from pick up to drop off. Special shout out to the tour group leader Ismael who was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about sharing his love for Costa Rica. This was a highlight of our trip!
read moreread less
(opens in a new tab)
Nick Sciales
4/14/2026
					We had an amazing time with Paddle9 exploring nature and the waterfalls outside of Quepos. Our guides and photographer were great! The experience was our favorite adventure during our trip to Costa Rica. Highly recommend.
read moreread less
(opens in a new tab)
Ian Sando
4/12/2026