Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, and the Southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica in general, is a completely different universe from the rest of the country. The raw beauty of this area’s beaches is unparalleled! Crystal clear water, white (or black, if you visit Playa Negra) sand, coral reefs, all surrounded by dense rainforest that is full of life.

But that’s just the beginning! The culture here has a heavy Afro-Caribbean/Jamaican and Indigenous influence. This, in my humble opinion, makes for the best food you’ll find in Costa Rica. Coconut scented and bursting with spices and flavor. This also contributes to the laid-back vibe of this place, which can make it heaven or hell, depending on the type of traveler you are.

The Caribbean side is much less developed for tourism than the Pacific coast. This means accommodations are more rustic. Most are small, bungalow-style hotels with “natural ventilation” (aka no A/C). Customer service can also be too relaxed and slow. The most common way to get around is by renting a bicycle, as the roads are relatively flat and easy to navigate, and yes, you are likely to find many people enjoying the Devil’s Lettuce.

Some of the most popular activities in the area include surfing, snorkeling and yoga. Of course, you’ll also need to visit some National Parks and reserves! Cahuita or Gandoca-Manzanillo, for example, are fantastic to take in the breathtaking beauty of the coast.