Captain Island / Isla Capitán
Discover Captain Island's unique shell-covered beaches, teeming with hermit crabs and tide pools. A natural wonder accessible by kayak.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters for kayaking
Captain Island / Isla Capitán
Best Time
Calm waters for kayaking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Captain Island's unique shell-covered beaches, teeming with hermit crabs and tide pools. A natural wonder accessible by kayak.
"The beach is almost entirely shells! Very nice. Worth the trip."
🛶 Kayak Adventure
Rent a kayak from Langosta Beach Club for the best access and a fun journey. :kayak:
🐚 Shell Collector's Dream
The beach is almost entirely shells, so wear sturdy footwear and enjoy! :shell:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shell-Covered Shores
Miles of beach almost entirely made of shells, a truly unique natural wonder.
Hermit Crab Haven
Witness countless hermit crabs scuttling across the shell-strewn sands.
Tide Pool Exploration
Discover fascinating marine life in the shallow, natural tide pools.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Kayak to Paradise
Shells and Wildlife Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛶 Kayak Adventure
Rent a kayak from Langosta Beach Club for the best access and a fun journey. :kayak:
🐚 Shell Collector's Dream
The beach is almost entirely shells, so wear sturdy footwear and enjoy! :shell:
🦀 Hermit Crab Spotting
Look closely for hermit crabs; they are abundant and fascinating to observe. :crab:
🌊 Tide Pool Treasures
Visit during low tide to explore the rich marine life in the tide pools. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
🛶 Kayak Adventure
Rent a kayak from Langosta Beach Club for the best access and a fun journey. :kayak:
🐚 Shell Collector's Dream
The beach is almost entirely shells, so wear sturdy footwear and enjoy! :shell:
🦀 Hermit Crab Spotting
Look closely for hermit crabs; they are abundant and fascinating to observe. :crab:
🌊 Tide Pool Treasures
Visit during low tide to explore the rich marine life in the tide pools. :ocean:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Captain Island's unique shell-covered beaches and the abundance of hermit crabs and tide pools, calling it a 'paradise' and 'very nice.' The island offers a distinct natural experience, though some note the beaches are not ideal for traditional sunbathing due to the shells. Access via kayak is a popular and recommended adventure.
"We kayaked to this island. The shells, hermit crabs and tide pools were amazing. The beach is almost entirely shells!"
Penelope Harder
"While staying at Hotel Capitan Suizo, we rented a kayak and went to the Island."
Jon G
"I swam there and back in cross currents, 2.2 miles: “I am the captain now.”"
Amir Korangy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach Captain Island is by renting a kayak from the Langosta Beach Club. This offers a scenic and adventurous journey across the water.
While some adventurous individuals have swum to the island, it's a significant distance (around 2.2 miles) and can involve strong currents. Kayaking is generally recommended for safety and ease.
Private boat trips can be arranged for couples, friends, or families, offering a comfortable and safe way to visit the island.
Langosta Beach Club is frequently mentioned as the ideal starting point for kayaking to Captain Island.
The kayaking time can vary depending on conditions and your paddling speed, but it's generally a manageable trip for those comfortable with kayaking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no specific entrance tickets required for Captain Island itself, as it's a natural attraction. However, you will need to arrange for transportation, such as kayak rental or a boat tour.
Captain Island is a natural island and does not have set operating hours. Visitors can typically access it during daylight hours, with kayaking being most feasible in calmer morning waters.
No, there is no admission fee to set foot on Captain Island. The costs are associated with getting there, like kayak rentals or boat tour fees.
Yes, guided tours and private boat trips are available for Captain Island, offering a convenient and informative experience.
Kayak rental costs can vary, but it's a common and relatively affordable way to access the island compared to other options. Inquire at Langosta Beach Club for current rates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the unique shell-covered beaches, observe hermit crabs, discover marine life in tide pools, and enjoy the natural beauty.
Hermit crabs are a prominent feature, and the tide pools often reveal various small marine creatures.
While you can swim around the island, the beaches themselves are primarily covered in shells, making them less ideal for traditional sunbathing or swimming directly from the shore.
Wear sturdy water shoes or sandals that can handle shells. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear if you plan to swim in the surrounding waters.
Captain Island is a natural, undeveloped island, so there are no facilities like restrooms or shops. Be prepared to bring everything you need and pack out all your trash.
📸 📸 Photography
The shell-covered beaches, hermit crabs, and tide pools offer unique and captivating subjects for photography. The surrounding ocean views are also stunning.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful golden hour shots. Low tide is ideal for capturing detailed tide pool photos.
While tempting, it's generally best to leave shells and natural elements as you find them to preserve the island's ecosystem.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive shell beaches, while a macro lens can be useful for close-ups of hermit crabs and tide pool life. Protect your gear from sand and water.
While the island itself offers views, the sunset might be best viewed from the mainland or your kayak as you head back, depending on your position.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Recommendation: Renting a kayak from Langosta Beach Club is a fun family activity. Ensure children wear water shoes to protect their feet from the shells. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities on the island. It's a great opportunity for hands-on nature discovery away from the typical tourist crowds.
💍 Couples and Romantic Getaways
Recommendation: Consider arranging a private boat trip for a more intimate and luxurious experience. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the unique shell beach. The island offers a sense of seclusion and natural beauty, perfect for creating lasting memories together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Ecology of Captain Island
One of the most captivating aspects of Captain Island is its abundance of hermit crabs. These crustaceans are a common sight, busily moving across the shell-strewn landscape. The island's tide pools, particularly visible during low tide, are miniature ecosystems teeming with small fish, invertebrates, and other fascinating sea creatures. Exploring these pools offers a glimpse into the vibrant underwater world just off the coast.
Responsible visitation is key to preserving this delicate environment. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly, avoid disturbing wildlife, and take all their trash with them. The island's beauty lies in its natural state, and respecting its ecology ensures it remains a special place for future visitors.
Getting to Captain Island: Kayaking and Beyond
For those seeking a more guided or comfortable experience, private boat trips are also an option. These can be arranged for individuals, couples, or families, providing a safe and convenient way to visit the island. While swimming to the island is technically possible, it's a strenuous undertaking due to the distance and potential currents, making kayaking or boat tours the more practical choices for most visitors.
When planning your trip, consider the tides. Visiting during low tide is ideal for exploring the tide pools, which are a major highlight of Captain Island. The calmer waters of the morning are also generally preferred for kayaking, ensuring a more pleasant and safer journey.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit