Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast feels completely different than the Pacific side:
- Afro-Caribbean culture
- Reggae & beach vibes
- Wildlife everywhere
- Surfing towns
- Protected national parks
Perfect for travelers who want beaches + nature + culture in one destination.
Top Areas to Stay
| Area | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Puerto Viejo | Surf town, nightlife, dining | First-timers |
| Cahuita | Quiet + national park access | Wildlife lovers |
| Manzanillo | Rustic nature & beaches | Escape & relax |
| Tortuguero | Jungle waterways | Turtle season & eco-tourism |
Top Things to Do
1) Cahuita National Park
Beach trails + reef snorkeling
Sloths, monkeys, toucans
2) Punta Uva
One of the best beaches in Costa Rica
Amazing photo spot
3) Jaguar Rescue Center
Rescued wildlife rehabilitation
Great for families
4) Surfing
Popular beaches:
- Playa Cocles
- Playa Negra
- Salsa Brava (expert-only)
5) Tortuguero National Park
Sea turtle nesting (July–Oct)
6) Snorkeling & Boat Tours
Clearer water than Pacific
Best Beaches
| Beach | Area | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Punta Uva | Near Puerto Viejo | Calm, beautiful water |
| Playa Cocles | Puerto Viejo | Surf beach |
| Playa Manzanillo | Manzanillo | Quiet & natural |
| Playa Negra | Puerto Viejo | Black sand |
| Cahuita Beaches | Inside park | Wildlife + reef |
Food & Drinks
Unique Afro-Caribbean flavors
- Rice & beans with coconut milk
- Rondon seafood stew
- Patí meat pastries
- Fresh fruit smoothies
- Local craft beers
- Rum & tropical cocktails
Transportation
| Type | Notes |
|---|---|
| Shuttle buses | Easiest between towns |
| Bicycles | Most common in Puerto Viejo |
| Car rental | Only if exploring inland |
| Public buses | Very cheap |
3–7 Day Itineraries
3 Days
Day 1: Puerto Viejo + Playa Cocles
Day 2: Cahuita National Park
Day 3: Punta Uva + sunset
5 Days
Add:
- Jaguar Rescue Center
- Surf lesson
7 Days
Add:
- Tortuguero jungle adventure
Safety & Practical Tips
- Towns are safe → basic awareness at night
- Do not leave valuables on beaches
- Mosquito protection needed
- Roads narrow & slow travel times
- Reef-safe sunscreen mandatory
Internal Links
- Honduras Bay Islands
- Panama Caribbean
- Best Caribbean Surf Spots
- Wildlife Travel: Sloths, Monkeys & Marine Life
- Budget Caribbean Travel
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
La costa caribeña de Costa Rica tiene playas hermosas, parques nacionales, surf y una cultura afrocaribeña vibrante. Puerto Viejo y Cahuita son los mejores lugares para explorar naturaleza y relajarse.
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