Costa Rica Backpacker's Beach

Crisp, salty sea air. Rolling waves. Grab your bag and experience the world. First stop: Puerto Viejo de Limon, Costa Rica. This eclectic locale is popular with native Costa Ricans (Ticos) and surfers, but off the radar of most tourists. You'll be able to pick up surf tips and have authentic cultural exchanges. Speaking of culture, Puerto Viejo de Limon is known as 'Talamanca' to the indigenous population. You can learn about their history and modern life on exciting tours. Of course, one of the best ways to get to know Costa Ricans is simply to talk to them and listen to their stories. This colorful region is full of Afro-Caribbean and Briri Indian descendents — not to mention friendly Ticos and expats...it's amazing what you can learn over a cold beer and fish taco. During your time in Puerto Viejo, you can go on classic tours like zip lining through forest canopies, but you can also snorkel, ride a bike to explore this chill town, and practice your photography skills. If you're a digital nomad taking a working vacation, then another reason you'll love Puerto Viejo is the economical accommodations with Wi-Fi! What are you waiting for? Grab your bag and your passport! Join veteran backpackers and leave your footprints in the sands of Puerto Viejo de Limon, Costa Rica.

You can experience the incredible beaches of Dominical without breaking the bank. Backpackers will feel welcome in the laidback town and find lots of clean, comfortable accommodations. However if you want to be around the bohemian vibe of the area but sleep in a luxury hotel or rental house Dominical should not be overlooked. In town, you'll find lots of affordable places to shop and eat, as well as studios with donation-based yoga. This town is an easily walkable destination, where you'll meet lots of fellow backpackers and surfers in the friendly bars. Save money on accommodations and budget for some exciting tours instead! Explore the mangroves in a kayak, head to Baru Waterfall for a canyoning adventure or grab a surfboard and experience some of the country's most exciting waves.

Make yourself at home in Montezuma, Costa Rica. This bohemian beach town is a favorite of free-spirited globetrotters. Surfers love to catch waves, and if you've been meaning to hop on a board, this is probably not the destination to learn, the waves vary widely and many rocks just below the surface. Love the beach but ambivalent about the water? You'll change your mind when you spot marine wildlife in their native habitat on a snorkeling excursion nearby Tortuga Island. Emerge from the briny ocean to dry off the old-fashioned way — bathed in golden sunlight. Grab your camera or favorite leatherbound journal to take pictures and notes of what you spot in tide pools. Don't let Montezuma's laid-back reputation fool you. Although you can stay in cute (and economical) accommodations where you'll hear monkeys chattering in the nearby forest, this town knows how to throw a party after the sun goes down. This may be one leg of a longer journey, but when you reach Montezuma, Costa Rica, be sure to set down your bag and stay a while.