Travel guide

Puerto Viejo

Caribbean reggae-and-rainforest coast

🗓️ Best time: February–April, September–October💰 Budget · ~$70/day📍 Costa Rica

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About Puerto Viejo

A laid-back Afro-Caribbean beach town on Costa Rica's wild southern coast — reggae rhythms, jungle-backed beaches, sloths and toucans, and spicy coconut-based Caribbean cooking.

⭐ Things to do in Puerto Viejo

Playa Cocles & Punta UvaCahuita National ParkJaguar Rescue CenterBri Bri indigenous tourCycling the coastPunta Uva turquoise coveManzanillo wildlife refugeCacao farm tour

🍽️ What to eat in Puerto Viejo

Signature local dishes worth seeking out.

Rice & beans in coconut milkRondón seafood stewPataconesCaribbean jerk

✈️ Know before you go

🚕 Getting around

Bicycles are the way; scooters and shuttles too.

💡 Local tip

Rent a bike to reach the string of quieter beaches south toward Manzanillo.

🛡️ Safety

Generally safe — exercise normal travel awareness.

🌙 Nightlife

Reggae beach bars with bonfires.