Beautiful area with very nice people and plenty to do. Hotel Banana Azul staff were wonderful!
- SHELLY W, JUN 2018
Puerto Viejo
Known for its laidback attitude and famous for it's surfing, Puerto Viejo beckons visitors to come experience Costa Rica’s eccentric side. The village’s cultural influences are interesting to be sure: a mix of Afro-Caribbean, Bribri Indian, tico and hippyesque counterculture, this small port town is an anthropological study in itself. A mere 11 miles (18 km) from Cahuita, Puerto Viejo is accessible via Highway 36 or by simply walking south, along the beach.
Puerto Viejo
Caribbean Coast
Average Rating
1148 Reviews
Puerto Viejo has recently become a hit with tourists due to its cultural allure, stunning white-sand beaches, tropical vegetation and its proximity to national parks. Nearby Cahuita National Park and Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge offers visitors a chance to observe the region’s stunning wildlife, both of which are a short drive away.
Native American traditions are well established. Indigenous reserves dot Talamanca—as this southern region is referred to by its indigenous population—which serves as a virtual extension of the national parks system. The Asociación Talamanca de Ecoturismo y Conservación (ATEC) offers information and tours to visitors interested in the local indigenous culture. A grassroots organization, ATEC was founded to promote sustainable tourism and cultural expression amongst the mixed population in which it serves. The organization offers tours complete with guides at an extremely fair price.
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Traveler Feedback
Traveler Feedback
The area is beautiful .. with much to do. Shopping eating bike riding and sipping your toes in the water. I learned how to surf with a man named Misael from surf the jungle which was amazing great instructor! The zip lining experience was great too all the guys were fun funny and super helpful. Loved everything about this town!
- SULMA , APR 2018
Location has a nice relaxing vibe. Good for nightlife and beaches.
- JONATHAN T, APR 2018
Such a beautiful place and I recommend buying most of your souvenirs here !!!!
- JANELLE C, MAR 2018
Great place, Lots to see, beautiful beaches and good cafees and restaurants.
- CAROLINE L, DEC 2017
Location was very nice. A bit of a long drive from Arenal but we got to see much of the country
- RICK S, SEP 2017
This was such a chill place.
- SAMANTHA F, AUG 2017
We had a great time. We were cautious to not carry too much money and to be home before 11 or so and had no problems.
- KATIE H, AUG 2017
Unfortunately rained alot while here. Come during the dry season to experience this town!
- CODY W, AUG 2017
Enjoyed Jaguar rehabilitation center and Cahuita park hike also excellent beaches and good vibe
- SCOTT , SEP 2016
This was our favorite spot during our 2 week stay in Costa Rica. The beaches are pristine and beautiful and the food is out of this world. We stayed for 5 days and never had one bad meal. You must rent a bike if you stay in this area. Most hotels either provide them, and if not, they will show you where you can rent them for around $8 a day.
We traveled to Puerto Viejo in early October and not once did we get the feeling that it was touristy or overdone. You do need to be a little cautious at night, but if you're careful and aware you won't have any problems. It was a fantastic experience and we're sure to go back.
- EMILY R, SEP 2015
Amazing city! Loved it! Definitely want to go back here! Beaches are beautiful, great location to take a bike ride to the neighboring national parks. Many great restaurants (bread and chocolate, ice cream deelite, café viejo, bikini, ...)
- KIM D, AUG 2015
Jungles and Beaches! Pura Vida! It was a memorable experience and a great opener for our trip!
- ISHAI S, APR 2015
Tamara's restaurant was excellent food & value. The Monkey bke rental was great. Could give info on bus schedule ahead of time. Playa Manzanillo is worth visiting while in area. Can bike or bus.
- GAYE W, FEB 2015
We loved Puerto Viejo even despite the rain!! Definitely cycle down to Punta Uva!
- STEVIE B, JAN 2015
It is more of beautiful & pristine beaches with more of a cultural experience of the Caribbean, rather than truly nature lovers paradise as monteverde
- PRAVEEN C, NOV 2014
Great place. Much much better than the Pacific Coast. Really relaxed, not too touristy (and those we did meet were down to earth). Loved it!
- SARAH K, NOV 2014
The Bread and Chocolate Restaurant was excellent. The Jaguar Rescue Center was well worth the visit, and our guide at the Cahuita National Park made this tour very interesting.
- GILLES L, NOV 2014
We thought Puerto Viejo was a bit crowded and touristy for our taste. The best part about this trip was the snorkeling, our hike on the beach and the Jaguar Rescue Center!
- SHERRONA S, OCT 2014
By far, the best experience with locals! You feel like part of the town as soon as you're there.
- KATIE M, AUG 2014
Puerto Viejo
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