My Costa Rica Vacations

Puerto Viejo Beach Costa Rica

Puerto Viejo
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Puerto Viejo Beach
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Puerto Viejo
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Puerto Viejo
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Getting there

Located on the Southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, Puerto Viejo is one of the most popular tourist spots in the country. The drive from capital San Jose is beautiful. If you are up for a road trip in Costa Rica, this route takes you right through the centre of the rainforest in the Braulio Carillo National Park, with its lush greenery and natural waterfalls. As you approach Limon, the natural beauty fades slightly in this old shipping town, but as you turn for the drive to Puerto Viejo, through Cahuita, you are once again greeted with stunning views all along the Caribbean coast.

A Caribbean Chill-out Zone

The main tourist town of the Costa Rican Caribbean is Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. The mix of open-air bars and laid back surfer attitudes make this one of the most chilled places to hang out in Costa Rica. Unlike the more developed tourist areas of Guanacaste on the Pacific coast, Puerto Viejo remains laid back embracing the easy going Caribbean way of life. It is unlike anywhere else in the country. People live on bicycles and cars need to watch out, as crabs take the opportunity to cross the road on their way to and from the beach. At night, the exotic fusion restaurants, markets and discos start up creating a bustling atmosphere in this sleepy village.

Things to See and Do

Many people visit Puerto Viejo for the surfing. The legendary reef break Salsa Brava explodes from December to April, but can also be good around June and July. It is perfect for professionals and experienced surfers. Novices are not advised to attempt it. At other times of the year, it is a quiet ocean, perfect for gentle dips and snorkeling. The beauty of the area can also be seen in Cahuita National Park, perfect for a gentle hike, as well as in the Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge where all manner of tropical species can be found. For relaxed days, spend time enjoying the wide variety of amazingly pristine undeveloped sandy beaches with their warm inviting waters.

Where to Stay

If you are looking to stay in Puerto Viejo, there are many bungalow options, including Azania Bungalows. For somewhere more luxurious, head just outside the centre for Le Cameleon, one of the most impressively modern hotels on the East coast. Whilst Puerto Viejo is really where it all happens, the quieter surrounding areas also boast amazing places to spend the night. Cahuita, being the furthest away, is a smaller option with its many bungalows and ecofriendly hotels. Cabinas and bungalows are the most popular option and guests hire bicycles for a simpler existence in this pretty town.