Stepping onto the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica is like entering a realm nearly untouched by time’s relentless march. Distinct from the bustling tourist hubs that dot other parts of the country, the Caribbean Coast, especially the southern stretch is less commercialized and offers a more authentic Costa Rican experience made more vibrant by its Afro-Caribbean and indigenous communities. But why choose the South Caribbean Coast? Beyond its pristine beaches and lush rainforests, it’s the genuine warmth of its people, the rhythmic cadence of its music, and the tantalizing flavors of its cuisine that beckon travelers in search of a destination where nature and culture harmoniously converge.

Where Are the Best Places to Stay in Costa Rica – Caribbean Side

natural splendors and cultural gems. In the south, the vibrant town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca stands out with its bohemian aura, deeply rooted in its Afro-Caribbean heritage. A little north, the Cahuita National Park not only offers sun-soaked beaches but is a biodiversity hotspot. Find more diverse beaches along the coast to the south until you reach everyone’s favorite Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. Near the Panamanian border, the intricate waterways of Tortuguero National Park offer a unique wetland ecosystem teeming with wildlife. 

Caribbean Side Weather & Climate

The Caribbean side of Costa Rica has a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by high humidity and consistent rainfall throughout much of the year. Average temperatures typically hover between 70°F (21°C) and 87°F (31°C) throughout the year. Rainfall can be abundant, with an average annual accumulation of about 140 to 250 inches (355 to 635 cm), largely influenced by the northeast trade winds. While rain showers can be expected year-round, they’re most frequent between July and November. 

Consequently, the best times to visit, weather-wise, are during the slightly drier periods from February to April and in September and October when the rains mellow out. However, those who don’t mind the occasional tropical downpour will find the Caribbean side’s rich biodiversity and vibrant greenery an appealing sight, no matter the month.

A Special Treat: Caribbean Food in Costa Rica

Costa Rican cuisine, with its rich tapestry of flavors, finds a unique and spirited expression on the Caribbean coast. Influenced by Afro-Caribbean traditions, the coastal fare is a delightful dance of spices, fresh ingredients, and culinary artistry. One must-try dish is “Rice and Beans,” distinct from the traditional “Gallo Pinto” of the rest of the country. Here, it’s simmered with coconut milk and seasoned with fragrant spices, often accompanied by succulent stewed chicken or fish. Another local favorite is “Patí,” a spicy meat-filled turnover that’s reminiscent of the region’s diverse influences. “Rondón,” a soulful seafood soup made with coconut milk, spices, and a medley of fish and other seafood, encapsulates the heart of the Caribbean coast in a bowl. Diving into these dishes offers not just a taste of the region’s bounty, but a flavorful journey into its storied history and cultural melding.

1. Tortuguero

Tortuguero is situated on the northern section of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. Unlike most Costa Rican destinations, Tortuguero isn’t directly accessible by road. Unless travelers fly in, they usually combine land transportation with a boat journey. From San José, the typical route involves driving or taking a bus to La Pavona or Cariari. From these points, you board boats that take you through the canals and rivers to Tortuguero on the coast. Here, you’ll find the hub of Tortuguero Village, a carless town full of history and culture.

The central attraction is Tortuguero National Park, which spans over 77,000 acres of dense rainforest. Here you can find an incredible diversity of wildlife, including various birds, reptiles, and mammals as you take boat rides or kayak trips through its rivers and lagoons. The highlight of this area is the sea turtle migration. From July to October, hundreds of turtles make their way to the shores around Tortuguero to lay their eggs. 

Distance from SJO/San Jose Airport: Approximately 4-5 hours (including boat ride)

Distance from LIR/Guanacaste Airport: Approximately 7-8 hours (including boat ride)

Southern Caribbean Coast, Costa Rica

2. Cahuita

Cahuita is located towards the southern part of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, about an hour north of the Panama border. This tranquil coastal town has evolved into a notable spot for travelers, blending the rhythms of Caribbean culture with the natural beauty of the tropics. The Afro-Caribbean influence is evident in its culinary offerings, music, and overall lifestyle.

Visitors to Cahuita can try a variety of activities, from snorkeling in the clear Caribbean waters to indulging in the local Caribbean cuisine. The Cahuita National Park, adjacent to the town, is a significant highlight, especially considering it is the only national park in Costa Rica that doesn’t charge an entrance fee. Spanning 2,711 acres, it’s a mix of marine and terrestrial environments. The park’s coral reefs, home to a diverse marine life, are popular among snorkelers and divers, while the coastal rainforest trails offer sightings of monkeys, sloths, and numerous bird species.

Distance from SJO/San Jose Airport: Approximately 4-5 hours

Distance from LIR/Guanacaste Airport: Approximately 8-9 hours

2. Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo, situated further south from Cahuita on the Caribbean coast, is known for its vibrant atmosphere. It’s a melting pot of cultures, where Afro-Caribbean, Bribri Indigenous, and Tico traditions interweave, resulting in a lively town full of music, color, interesting characters, and life.

Puerto Viejo is the perfect hub for all the relaxing and exciting activities in the area. The town itself boasts a range of restaurants offering everything from traditional Costa Rican meals to international dishes, influenced by a strong local and expat community. Numerous artisan shops line the streets, presenting unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods. As for nature, there are several nearby beaches within minutes of Puerto Viejo with fewer crowds and the same gorgeous water.

Distance from SJO/San Jose Airport: Approximately 4.5-5.5 hours

Distance from LIR/Guanacaste Airport: Approximately 8.5-9.5 hours

3. Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita & Punta Uva

Located just a short drive south of Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast, you’ll find three beaches in a row: Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, and Punta Uva. It’s easy to stay in Puerto Viejo and visit each in turn, or stay in accommodations near one of these beaches and maintain easy access to town 

Playa Cocles is a long, wide beach renowned for its golden sands and is a favorite among surfers due to its consistent waves. Playa Chiquita, with its secluded coves and coral reefs, offers tranquility and opportunities for snorkeling. Punta Uva, enveloped by lush greenery, boasts calm waters making it perfect for relaxed swimming and kayaking. While these beaches are all close to each other, they each offer a completely distinct experience! 

4. Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge

Nestled further down the Caribbean coast near the Panama border, you’ll find the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. As a refuge that doesn’t permit the entrance of alcohol, the beaches within are naturally less crowded and more pristine. Outside the park, you can find a great beach party scene, as groups of families and friends set up under the palm trees, feet from the shore with tables, shade & grills. 

The Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge stretches across a diverse range of habitats, from wetlands and mangroves to coastal rainforests. The refuge is a haven for biodiversity, hosting hundreds of bird species, various amphibians and reptiles, and even the occasional manatee in its coastal waters. Just inside the entrance, you’ll be delighted to find a stretch of beach where the almond trees stretch over the shore itself, giving visitors a beautiful shady place to sit and enjoy the sand and water.

Distance from SJO/San Jose Airport: Approximately 5-6 hours

Distance from LIR/Guanacaste Airport: Approximately 9-10 hours

History of the Southern Caribbean coast in Costa Rica

The tapestry of the Southern Caribbean side of Costa Rica is deeply interwoven with a blend of Afro-Caribbean influences and the rich heritage of indigenous communities. The Afro-Caribbean community in Costa Rica traces back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when workers from Jamaica and other Caribbean nations were brought in to work on the construction of the Atlantic railroad that connected San José to Puerto Limón. Following the completion of the railway, many of these workers chose to settle in the region, gradually establishing communities along the coast. 

Their influence is palpable today in the language, music, cuisine, and overall culture of the area. Originally, the region was home to several indigenous communities, such as the Bribri and Cabécar, who still live there today. Together, these cultural influences create a truly unique part of Costa Rica and definitely not one to be missed.