Visit Cabuya Cemetery Island respectfully: what the island is, why tide matters, planning a return crossing and when to stay on the mainland.
Illustrative cover image
Cabuya's cemetery island is a burial place, not a beach attraction built for visitors. The Costa Rica tourism board describes its connection to the village and its tidal approach. If you visit, treat the graves and any mourners with the same respect you would in a cemetery at home.
What Makes the Island Different
The island lies offshore from Cabuya. A low-tide approach connects it with the mainland, while rising water changes access. A photograph of people walking there does not show the conditions that will exist during your visit.
Start by asking locally whether a visit is appropriate that day. Check the tide, swell, footing and the time available to return. Do not interpret a low-tide time on a phone as a complete safety assessment. If there is doubt, view the island from the mainland and choose another activity.
Plan the Return Before You Start
The key question is when you must be back, not merely when you can begin. Allow room for walking slowly and turning around. Keep your group together and avoid a plan that depends on everyone moving quickly over wet or uneven ground.
Do not attempt a crossing at night, during deteriorating conditions or by following strangers without understanding the route. Do not wade into rising water to salvage a sightseeing plan. If you need help, get appropriate local assistance rather than treating the water as a swimming route.
Respectful Cemetery Behavior
Keep voices low, stay clear of burial activity and avoid stepping on graves. Ask before photographing people or anything that could intrude on a family's privacy. Leave offerings and grave decorations where they are. Take your rubbish back with you.
This is a poor setting for amplified music, a party or a staged photo session that blocks others. A quiet visit with a small group is easier to keep respectful. If a funeral or family gathering is taking place, give it priority and space.
Build a Flexible Cabuya Day
Arrange transport and a return meeting point. You could reserve an Indigena chocolate experience or plan a separate reserve visit, but do not let another booking pressure you into an unsuitable crossing. Ask about current roads when leaving Santa Teresa and again if weather changes.
Wear footwear appropriate to the approach and protect essential belongings from water. Travelers with limited mobility should ask about the full route before deciding; an island visible from the beach is not proof of an accessible path.
FAQ
Is this a real cemetery?
Yes. The tourism board identifies it as the village's cemetery, and respectful behavior comes first.
Can I simply go at any low tide?
No. Tide, swell, route conditions and the return window need a local assessment.
What if the crossing is unsuitable?
Stay on the mainland. A visit to Cabuya can still include the coast or a separately confirmed activity.
Can I take photographs during a burial or family visit?
Give mourners privacy and ask permission before photographing people. Respectful cemetery behavior takes priority over a visitor photograph or sightseeing plan.
Plan the Rest
Cabuya Day Trip From Santa Teresa, Chocolate Tastings and Workshops Near Santa Teresa, Accessible Travel in Santa Teresa.
Sources and Last Check
Checked November 5, 2026. Operator pages describe advertised services; menus and event programs can change.