Exotic Vacation Places

Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean coast is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, a nature reserve, a national park and enough wildlife to satisfy a zoo keeper! Though not the most visited region of the country, the Caribbean is popular with tourists from all over the globe. Many come for a visit and decide to uproot and make this paradise their permanent home and it’s not hard to see why! This land of natural beauty is enchanting to say the least. So grab your sunblock, some reggae tunes and let’s head on a tropical adventure down route 36 together. Here are some tips and info to take with you on the journey.

Puerto Limon

Driving from San Jose the first coastal town you will encounter is Puerto Limon. Puerto Limon is sometimes referred to as a rough place and usually bypassed on the way to more attractive destinations further south, but keep in mind that there are some cool things to do in Puerto Limon. Puerto Limon was encountered by Christopher Columbus in 1502, a small island 900 meters off shore named Isla Uvita is the place where he dropped anchor and even if you aren’t a famous explorer a short trip to Isla Uvita may be worth your while. Known for its surfing Isla Uvita is said to be Costa Rica’s most powerful left-hand break. You can see the action from Limon’s shore so you can view the conditions before you hire a boat to take you out. Another attraction is the beachfront park, Parque Vargas. This waterfront park is a great place to sit and watch the waves come in.



Cahuita

Cahuita is a quite relaxing stop on the trip down the coast. A West Indian vibe runs through the veins of this small beach town, Reggae beats are heard over crashing waves, coconuts is used in the cooking and Jamaica’s national colors are found on many building and clothes. Several nice restaurants and shops line the streets of this friendly town, but Cahuita’s most famous attraction lies beneath the sea. Inside the protected waters of Cahuita National Park lies one of only two living Coral reefs in Costa Rica. It is the ideal place to go snorkeling, but the waters acquire quite a bit of run off in the rain season, during these months visibility can be poor. Hiking is also available in the park for those not looking to venture under the sea. Hiking the park is a great chance to see a variety of chirping parrots, swinging monkeys and lazy sloths.

Puerto Viejo

Just a short ride south of Cahuita you’ll come across Puerto Viejo. Once upon a time this was a small fishing village but it is now a trendy, bustling, party hot spot! Party goers dance the nights away as international DJs play songs from around the globe, all just meters off of the soft beach sands. Puerto Viejo is also known for its Salsa Break wave, translated to “fierce sauce”, some say it is the best wave in Costa Rica. This wave is not recommended for beginners, there is a sharp reef under the wave that can cause some serious cuts and bruises. If waves and cocktails aren’t your thing there is also good hiking nearby as well as sea kayaking just off shore. All of the amenities you may need are easily found downtown, and there isn’t much more south of here, so stock up before heading to our next destination.

Playa Manzanillo

The final destination is Playa Manzanillo, situated just miles from the Panamanian Border is one of the most amazing beaches you will ever lay eyes on. The soft white sands are a pleasure to walk on as you stroll by howling monkeys that lounge on the limbs of trees. Playa Manzanillo is truly a place where the Jungle meets the sea. Playa Manzanillo is a wonderful destination for a picnic on the beach or a nap under a palm tree, just watch out for falling coconuts!


*Guest Post Written by Matthew Ymbras for TV Pura Vida