Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

[Danny Solano Alvarez]

Puerto Viejo can be called the main tourist destination of the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. The town is located in Talamanca Canton in the province of Limon, in the southeastern coast of the country, close to the Panamanian border.

The magic of this place is a combination of different reasons such as white sand beaches, crystal waters, excellent surf conditions, wide variety of wildlife, great diversity of cultures and one of the most attractive factors: laid-back vibe Caribbean style.

Many Puerto Viejo´s visitors have become permanent residents after they fall in love with the area being the main reason for its cultural mixture and diversity.

Different cultures can be easily found by just walking down the streets of Puerto Viejo. Indigenous Bribri inhabitants are a very important part of the population, follow by the African Caribbean along with ¨los ticos¨ and expats from USA, Canada and Europe.

Adding this combination of cultures to its natural richness can only result in the perfect blend on a holiday vacation. The beaches have their own authentic charm; Playa Chiquita, Playa Negra and Punta Uva are some of the most beautiful in the country.

Surfing conditions make another well-known reason to visit the area. One of the most visited surf spots is ¨Salsa Brava¨ the most powerful wave of Costa Rica, very popular among surfers around the world.

The features of the sea are as well privileged; here when the waters are down, become some of the clearest in Costa Rica, very suitable for good snorkeling in the nearby coral reefs.

The range of activities and things to do in the area is wide, lost of active adventure options like kayaking, rainforest trails, variety of restaurants and services.

Wildlife is an outstanding highlight of the area; Puerto Viejo is home to the famous Howler Monkey; while you are on the beach or just relaxing in one of the nearby hotels you can listen, see and enjoy the sounds and views of this biodiversity.

Accommodation options are very particular, rustic and authentic mostly immersed into the rainforest with ocean front views, a whole different world from the developed and touristy 5 star services in the North Pacific area of Costa Rica. Nearby towns like Cahuita, Cocles and Manzanillo also make part of the package.

Right now is a good time to visit the Caribbean side, especially if you take into consideration the weather conditions in the rest of the country. Elements Travel can help you plan and customize a unique vacation in this laid-back area of our country.

By Maricel / Elements Travel

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[Danny Solano Alvarez]

Totally agree, the vibe of Puerto Viejo is unique, it feels completely different than in the rest of the country. The beaches are gorgeous, I love visiting Puerto Viejo every time to time...

[David Paul Appell]

I very much enjoyed spending time here on the Limón coast - Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, Manzanillo, etc. - when I was researching a Costa Rica guidebook several years ago, and apart from the gorgeous beaches found the mix of cultures fascinating. I visited with the BriBrí up in the hills, enjoyed the Jamaican-flavored vibe down in the towns, and got to experience one of the most memorable sights I've ever seen - giant sea turtles nesting on a local beach at night.  Most of the lodgings are small and simple, and last I heard, plans were afoot to bring in larger-scale development; I just hope it won't overwhelm the castaway feel of this wonderful coast.