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Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, nestled on the Caribbean coast of Limón province near the Panama border, is a charming town with a unique character. Despite its small size, this picturesque town leaves a lasting impression with its distinct Jamaican and Caribbean vibes, reggae music, lively bars, craft stalls, and idyllic beaches where time seems to stand still.
During our visit, we lost track of time by exploring the beaches on rented bikes and meandering through the colorful streets. The town of Puerto Viejo in Costa Rica attracts travelers from all corners of the globe, drawn in by its infectious energy and surfing opportunities. Plus, it’s one of the best areas for spotting sloths in Costa Rica! So, if you’re eager to meet these cute little creatures, Puerto Viejo should definitely be on your list.
Moreover, there are plenty of things to do around Puerto Viejo, such as visiting Cahuita National Park and Manzanillo, two of the best attractions in Costa Rica.
So, if you’re curious to know what to do in Puerto Viejo, where to stay, and other useful details for your visit, this guide is your perfect companion. I’m sure you will fall in love with Puerto Viejo, just as we did.
1. Explore Cahuita National Park, the best thing to do in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
First things first, visiting Cahuita National Park is the most amazing thing to do in Puerto Viejo. It’s one of the most popular national parks in Costa Rica, offering both terrestrial and underwater wonders to discover.
Cahuita National Park features a 5-mile-long coastal trail with stunning views. The final stretch of the trail meanders through extensive mangroves via a wooden platform. Take your time to soak in the beauty of the pristine beaches along the way – they’re like scenes straight out of a postcard! Keep your eyes peeled, as wildlife sightings are very common here. We joined this tour with a guide, who expertly showed us sloths, monkeys, iguanas, and a myriad of bird species, ensuring we didn’t miss a thing.
1. Explore Cahuita National Park, the best thing to do in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
If you prefer to explore the area on your own, keep in mind that the park has two entrances: Playa Blanca in Cahuita, offering free parking and entry by donation, or Puerto Vargas, which is closest to Puerto Viejo, with a $5 admission fee. I’d recommend the first option: take a bus or taxi to the town of Cahuita, enter through the Playa Blanca entrance, and then leave through the Puerto Vargas entrance. Finally, take a bus or taxi back to Puerto Viejo.
What truly captivated me about Cahuita was its mesmerizing coral reefs. I strongly urge you to set aside some time to explore them. Just be aware that snorkeling on your own here is prohibited, so you should hire a guide. Trust me; it’s worth it! You’ll be rewarded with sightings of six different coral species and vibrant tropical fish, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot rays and reef sharks. It’s truly amazing!
2. Playa Punta Uva, an incredible attraction in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
Playa Punta Uva is one of the best beaches in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica. Its vast stretch of white sand and picturesque palm trees make it one of the finest beaches in Costa Rica. It is located just 5 miles from Puerto Viejo’s town center, so it’s quite easy to access this authentic paradise.
2. Playa Punta Uva, an incredible attraction in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
What truly distinguishes Punta Uva Beach, in my view, is its vibrant marine ecosystem and crystal-clear turquoise waters with excellent visibility. The shallow reef and gentle currents make it an ideal spot for snorkeling in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica—so don’t hesitate to don your mask and dive in. During our visit, we were treated to sightings of a diverse array of colorful fish, turtles, manta rays, and even an octopus.
For a breathtaking view, follow the path at the end of the beach to reach the tip of the peninsula jutting into the sea—the Punta Uva viewpoint. From here, you’re treated to sweeping views of the coastline. I also recommend taking a small detour just before reaching the viewpoint, leading to a secluded spot where you’ll find a small cave with a perfect arch, offering a wonderful view.
3. Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, a must-visit attraction in Puerto Viejo
Located 8 miles from Puerto Viejo, Limón, and bordering Panama, lies the small town of Manzanillo—a tiny, self-sufficient community with a unique charm. One of the best attractions in Manzanillo is the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, a protected reserve where you can explore dreamy beaches and fully immerse yourself in nature.
Keep in mind that entry to the refuge is free. However, for a deeper understanding of the area’s rich fauna, I highly recommend opting for this guided tour with a naturalist. With the guidance of an expert, you may encounter turtles, alligators, crocodiles, sloths, toucans, parrots, and a myriad of other wildlife species, offering a glimpse into Costa Rica’s remarkable biodiversity.
3. Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, a must-visit attraction in Puerto Viejo
During the tour, make sure to visit the viewpoint along the trail at the end of Playa Manzanillo for breathtaking vistas of the rainforest below. The journey continues to Punta Mona, a wild and idyllic environment with the beautiful Punta Mona Island in front of it.
On our return, we decided to bid farewell to our guide and spend some time relaxing and snorkeling on one of the lush beaches. If you’re lucky enough to visit between March and June, you might even witness the nesting of leatherback turtles, one of the most iconic sea turtles in Costa Rica. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to sign up for a night tour to witness this natural wonder.
If you plan to visit during the rainy season, be cautious, as trails may be muddy and challenging to navigate. That being said, exploring Manzanillo ranks among the top things to do in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica. It’s a remote and less-crowded spot where you’ll encounter wildlife that you won’t find in the more touristy national parks.
4. Surfing at Playa Cocles, a fun thing to do in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Hitting the waves is definitely one of the most popular things to do in Puerto Viejo. While you can surf at Playa Negra, the famous black sand beach in Puerto Viejo, I’d suggest venturing a bit further to Playa Cocles, the best beach in the area.
4. Surfing at Playa Cocles, a fun thing to do in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Please note however, that if you’re a beginner, Playa Cocles might not be the best choice. The currents there can be quite strong, which can pull you seaward. But for experienced surfers, it’s a haven. You’ll find both locals and travelers gathering to ride the waves crashing onto the shore.
To reach Playa Cocles, take a stroll along a beautiful path starting from Puerto Viejo Beach, right next to the Salsa Brava Restaurant. It’s about a 1.2-mile journey through a stunning natural area, where you might even spot monkeys and sloths, among other animals. Along the way, you’ll encounter some small coves, perfect for a refreshing dip in complete privacy.
5. Jaguar Rescue Center, one of the best places in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
Visiting the Jaguar Rescue Center in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, was truly one of the highlights of our trip, as it allowed us to witness an important conservation effort firsthand. Here, various native animals in Costa Rica, whether injured, sick or rescued, find refuge as they undergo rehabilitation with the ultimate goal of returning to their natural habitats.
If you decide to visit, make sure to opt for a guided tour so you can gain insight into the stories and unique characteristics of each species. While you’ll have the opportunity to observe the animals up close, touching, feeding, or taking photos with them is not permitted.
5. Jaguar Rescue Center, one of the best places in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
There are two tour options available. The first is a public tour, priced at $22, which lasts 1.5 hours and is offered daily at 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Alternatively, you can choose a private visit for $75, which lasts 2 hours and takes place after the center closes at 2:00 p.m., ensuring a more exclusive experience.
In both cases, all proceeds go directly to supporting the animals. Despite the dedicated efforts of volunteers, the center operates without government funding. So, your visit helps sustain its operations to provide round-the-clock veterinary care.
6. Visit the Bribrí indigenous community, an extraordinary experience in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Exploring the Bribrí indigenous community is undeniably one of the most fascinating things to do in Puerto Viejo. This community is one of the few indigenous groups still residing in Costa Rica, with a few more across the border in Panama.
With approximately 11,500 inhabitants, the Bribrí people live in small, self-contained villages where they source food, medicine, and materials for their homes directly from nature. Due to their isolation, they still maintain their unique local language as well as a distinct form of sign language.
6. Visit the Bribrí indigenous community, an extraordinary experience in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
However, in recent years, the Bribrí community has welcomed tourism as a means of sharing their rich culture and way of life. So, you can join this excursion and delve into their history, beliefs, and customs. Your adventure begins with a meeting with a shaman, who will warmly welcome you into their family and guide you through a traditional cocoa ceremony, a hallmark of local culture.
Following this, you will savor typical Bribrí cuisine and explore two breathtaking waterfalls: the impressive 50-foot-high Volio Waterfall and the smaller yet equally stunning Bribrí Waterfall.
7. Swim in the natural pools of Playa Chiquita, one of the most unique activities in Puerto Viejo
For a change of pace in Puerto Viejo, consider exploring the natural pools of Playa Chiquita. After days filled with hiking and exploration, a bit of relaxation might be just what you need. Playa Chiquita is located about 3.7 miles from the town center, easily accessible via a scenic nature trail winding through lush vegetation and teeming with local wildlife.
7. Swim in the natural pools of Playa Chiquita, one of the most unique activities in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
Aside from its stunning beaches featuring fine sand and crystal-clear waters, Playa Chiquita offers the opportunity to unwind in natural pools that form along certain points of the coast. Here, you can enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the jungle while observing fish trapped by the shifting tides.
8. Enjoy Caribbean food in one of the best restaurants in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
If you didn’t already know, Christopher Columbus first set foot on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica in 1502, leaving behind a rich cultural legacy shaped by European and African influences. This rich heritage is vividly reflected in the region’s gastronomy, which sets it apart from the rest of the country. So, one of the best things to do in Puerto Viejo is to indulge in some traditional Costa Rican dishes and tantalize your taste buds with new flavors.
Many of the traditional recipes feature simple ingredients, a testament to the challenging economic conditions of the time and the significant African influence from slaves brought on ships. Take, for example, breadfruit, a fruit that’s fried with coconut milk. It was originally brought from Asia as a cheap food for slaves.
8. Enjoy Caribbean food in one of the best restaurants in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
In addition to classics like rice with beans or fish with patacones (fried green plantains), I highly recommend sampling some other local delicacies, such as fried yucca pancakes, plantintá (a delicious plantain and cheese pastry), patí (a turnover made with Jamaican plant roots), rondón (a flavorful fish and coconut milk soup), and pan bon (a sweet bread infused with fruits and raisins), among others.
As you can guess, gastronomy is one of the highlights of many tours in Puerto Viejo. So, if you’re looking for the best restaurants in Costa Rica in Puerto Viejo, I suggest checking out Restaurante Tamara or Lidia’s Place—two renowned local restaurants offering delectable dishes at affordable prices.
9. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and reggae music in Puerto Viejo
There’s no better way to cap off the day than by enjoying a lively night on the beach in Puerto Viejo, Limón. Reggae music holds a significant place in Caribbean culture that characterizes Puerto Viejo. However, you’ll find a diverse range of venues offering different vibes where you can groove to music, sip on drinks, and make new friends.
9. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and reggae music in Puerto Viejo
As the sun sets, the streets come alive, and beach parties kick into gear. We decided to call it an early night to recharge for the next day, but don’t worry! You can always party in Puerto Viejo until the crack of dawn with no problems.
While there are plenty of options available, most bars in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, offer a similar experience. Anywhere you go, you can expect live music, entertaining shows, and, of course, happy-hour drinks. You can check out Hot Rocks, Johnny’s Place, and Salsa Brava – three hotspots for enjoying the nightlife in Puerto Viejo.
10. Excursion from Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica to Bocas del Toro, Panama
Thanks to its close proximity to Panama, visiting Puerto Viejo can be an excellent opportunity to go across the border and explore another stunning destination on the Caribbean coast: Bocas del Toro.
If you’re considering making the journey with a rental car, make sure to check with the rental company about their policies regarding cross-border travel, as many companies may not permit it. In our case, we opted for this shuttle service to Bocas del Toro, which turned out to be a smooth and efficient option.
10. Excursion from Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica to Bocas del Toro, Panama
We spent three days there, but honestly, we could have easily stayed longer. If you’re looking to experience other memorable things to do in Puerto Viejo, I highly recommend adding this paradisiacal island to your itinerary.
The transportation service takes you by van to the border, where another guide awaits to escort you to the dock. From there, you’ll hop on a boat headed toward Puerto Valencia on Isla Colón in Bocas del Toro. While crossing customs can be a bit of a hassle, this transport service helped streamline the process.
Where to stay in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
Now that you’ve got all the details about things to do in Puerto Viejo, it’s time to choose the perfect accommodation. If you don’t know where to stay in Costa Rica, here are three suggestions catering to different budgets:
- Umami Hotel: If you’re looking for upscale accommodation, consider Umami Hotel, one of the best luxury hotels in Costa Rica. Located just 650 feet from the beach, this elegant hotel boasts stylish rooms with terraces and top-notch amenities. It also features an outdoor pool, a gourmet restaurant, and a spa for relaxation.
- Selina Puerto Viejo: If you’re on a tight budget but still want a comfortable stay, I recommend Selina Puerto Viejo, one of the best hostels in Costa Rica. This hostel offers both shared and private rooms, along with excellent facilities. Plus, if you need to get some work done while traveling, you’ll appreciate the coworking area with spacious tables and a reliable Internet connection.
- Terrazas del Caribe Aparthotel: This is one of the most recommended apartments in Costa Rica, ideal for those seeking a homely atmosphere. These apartments feature one- and two-bedroom units, each equipped with a patio or terrace, a living room, and a dining area with a fully equipped kitchen. If you prefer not to cook, you can always dine at the complex’s restaurant.
- Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel: This is one of the best hotels in Limón, situated in front of Playa Cocles. It has various room categories to choose from, including options with pool or sea views, private pools, and terraces. This luxurious hotel also boasts a beach club with activities for all ages, an outdoor pool, and a spa offering an extensive menu of Ayurvedic treatments.
Map of Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
Below, you’ll find a map of Puerto Viejo highlighting the location of all the attractions mentioned in this guide. Additionally, I recommend consulting our tourist maps of Costa Rica to help plan your itinerary.
That wraps up our guide on the best things to do in Puerto Viejo. I hope it gave you plenty of ideas for your next adventure, but if you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.
Pura Vida!
