Imagine, millions of years ago, the Earth and it volcanoes emerged from the deep ocean floor and formed out of lava and rock what we now know as Central America. This geological metamorphosis also brought up big rock formations that became islands, now called home by many fishes and visited for others to feed along their migratory routes.
Bat Islands
North of Papagayo Gulf, in the Santa Rosa National Park, emerged thousands of years ago, the Bat Islands. Its strategic location guarantees an abundant and varied marine life, many of which are very difficult to find in other locations. For some reason this is a meeting place for many different living things that can rarely see co-habiting. You can observe the impressive Bull Shark, white tips and tiger sharks, schools of cow-nosed rays, eagle rays.
And if you're lucky that day, you will have the unforgettable experience of swimming with the peaceful Whale Shark (they essentially feed on plankton).
Nobody exactly knows how The Bat Islands got their name; some say it is due to the shape of the islands when seen from the air. Others think that it is because of the number of bats that have lived on or around the islands.
Coco Beach is the nearest town; about one hour trip across the Pacific Ocean. You can enjoy rays jumping out of the water or the dolphins that frequently play alongside the moving boats. The best months to visit The Bat Islands are from March to November. All the dive companies in the region offer this tour, and recommended it for experienced divers. These tours leaves around 8 a.m. and returning to Coco around 2 or 3 p.m.
A tour to The Bat Islands merits three tanks, because once you make it all the way out there you should take full advantage of this opportunity and spend as much time under the sea as possible. Of course between each dive there is time for a snack, a visit to the island park, snorkel or just enjoy the scenery.
The Arches
These consist of rock formations that form three arches covered in marine life. In this underwater cathedral you will see an incredible variety of fish, and it is one of the favorite spots for experienced divers. It is located at the tip of the peninsula, and it is imperative to dive accompanied by a guide that knows the area.
The Big Scare
This diving point was baptized with this name because it is where the largest amount of Bull Sharks has been seen. These sharks can measure from 2.5 meters to 4.5 meters long. However, what is more frightening is how wide these sharks are, as these carnivores are hefty and can weigh
about 300 kilograms , but nobody has ever been attacked here.
Black Rock
Consists of a rock formation that barely juts out of the ocean, about 15 minutes before The Bat Islands. As it is located on the path to the island, a great variety of marine species arrives, including a lot of pelagic fauna.You never know what you will see here, from small colorful fish to giants Whale Sharks. It has a depth of about 120 feet, but you only dive to 60 feet.This is the most visited point by the diving tour companies.
Ecotourism and Nature 
