Playa Puerto Viejo

Playa Puerto Viejo Travel Guide

Playa Puerto Viejo, often referred to simply as Puerto Viejo, is a vibrant town located on Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean coast in the Limón province. Known for its stunning beaches, rich Afro-Caribbean culture, lively nightlife, and proximity to beautiful national parks, Puerto Viejo is a must-visit destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Overview of Playa Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a colorful, laid-back town that attracts a diverse mix of tourists, from backpackers to luxury travelers. The town is famous for its beautiful beaches, excellent surf spots, and lively cultural scene. With a backdrop of lush rainforests and crystal-clear waters, Puerto Viejo offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant local culture.

Activities to Do in Playa Puerto Viejo

Surfing

Puerto Viejo is renowned for its excellent surf conditions. Salsa Brava, the town’s most famous surf break, attracts surfers from around the world with its powerful waves. Other popular surf spots include Playa Cocles and Playa Negra, which cater to different skill levels.

Beach Hopping

Explore the stunning beaches in and around Puerto Viejo, each offering its own unique charm. Playa Cocles is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, while Playa Chiquita and Punta Uva are great for snorkeling and enjoying a more tranquil atmosphere.

Snorkeling and Diving

Discover the vibrant marine life of the Caribbean Sea by snorkeling or diving in the coral reefs around Puerto Viejo. Popular spots include the reefs near Punta Uva and Cahuita National Park. Guided tours and equipment rentals are available.

Visit Cahuita National Park

A short drive from Puerto Viejo, Cahuita National Park offers beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and excellent hiking trails. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and a variety of bird species.

Explore the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge

South of Puerto Viejo, Gandoca-Manzanillo Refuge features pristine beaches, wetlands, and rainforests. Guided tours offer the chance to see manatees, dolphins, and a variety of bird species. The refuge is also a great spot for hiking and kayaking.

Wildlife Watching

Join a guided tour to spot the diverse wildlife in the area. Look for howler monkeys, toucans, sloths, and other native species in their natural habitat. Night tours are also available for a chance to see nocturnal animals.

Horseback Riding

Experience the natural beauty of Puerto Viejo on horseback. Guided tours take you through scenic trails, beaches, and rural landscapes, providing a unique perspective of the area.

Biking

Rent a bike and explore the town and its surroundings at your own pace. The coastal road connecting Puerto Viejo to Manzanillo is popular among cyclists, offering beautiful views and easy access to nearby beaches and attractions.

Yoga and Wellness

Join a yoga class or wellness retreat to relax and rejuvenate. Several studios and resorts in Puerto Viejo offer daily classes, workshops, and holistic treatments.

Attractions Close to Playa Puerto Viejo

Bribri Indigenous Reserve: Visit the Bribri Indigenous Reserve to learn about the culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the Bribri people. Guided tours provide insights into their customs, crafts, and sustainable farming practices.
Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve: The Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve, located near Puerto Viejo, is home to the Kekoldi Indigenous community. Tours offer a chance to learn about their traditional way of life, including medicinal plant knowledge and sustainable agriculture.
Jaguar Rescue Center: Located in nearby Playa Chiquita, the Jaguar Rescue Center is dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured and orphaned animals. Guided tours provide an up-close look at the center’s efforts to protect and release wildlife.
Waterfall Hikes: Explore the beautiful waterfalls in the area, such as the BriBri Waterfalls. Guided tours are available, offering the opportunity to swim in natural pools and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve: located near Puerto Viejo, is home to the Kekoldi Indigenous community. Tours offer a chance to learn about their traditional way of life, including medicinal plant knowledge and sustainable agriculture.

Best Restaurants in Playa Puerto Viejo

Koki Beach Restaurant & Bar: Known for its creative cocktails and delicious cuisine, Koki Beach offers a mix of Caribbean, Latin, and international dishes. The beachfront location and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular spot for both dining and socializing.
Bread & Chocolate: A favorite among locals and tourists, Bread & Chocolate is known for its hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and homemade chocolates. The cozy café atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot to start your day.
Café Viejo: offers a variety of delicious Italian pasta dishes, pizzas, and seafood. The warm, inviting ambiance and authentic flavors make it a must-visit for lovers of Italian cuisine.
Miss Lidia’s Place: is a charming restaurant offering a mix of Caribbean and Costa Rican cuisine. Try the traditional dishes like patacones (fried plantains), ceviche, and coconut curry. The warm ambiance and local flavors make it a must-visit.
Stashu’s Con Fusion: Known for its eclectic menu that blends Caribbean, Asian, and Latin flavors, Stashu’s Con Fusion offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant’s creative dishes and relaxed atmosphere make it a popular choice for dinner.

Pro Tips for Visiting Playa Puerto Viejo

Weather: The Caribbean side does not have a distinct dry season. However, there are periods with less rainfall, typically in February/March and September/October. Annually, the region receives about 141 inches of rain, with the wettest months being July, November, and December. Despite frequent showers, patches of sunshine often break through, illuminating the landscape. Most months have at least four to five hours of daily sunshine, except for July, which is the cloudiest and rainiest month. March and April are the sunniest months, offering more than five to six hours of sunshine per day.

Temperatures in the Caribbean weather region are relatively consistent year-round, ranging from 77 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit. The warmest months are May, June, and October, with daily highs averaging 88 degrees. The coolest daytime temperatures occur in January, February, July, and December, averaging 84 degrees. Nighttime temperatures are comfortably cool, ranging from 68 to 71 degrees.

Trade winds are common, helping to moderate the high humidity, which is a defining characteristic of the Caribbean weather region, the most humid in Costa Rica. Humidity levels are fairly consistent throughout the year. The least humid months are March and April, with humidity around 84 percent, while the rest of the year averages between 87 and 90 percent. The highest humidity, reaching 90 percent, coincides with the rainiest months of June, July, November, and December.
Transportation: Puerto Viejo is accessible by car or bus from San José, the capital city. The drive takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. Local taxis and bike rentals are available for getting around the town.

Puerto Viejo offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and vibrant Caribbean charm. Whether you’re surfing the waves, exploring the rainforests, or enjoying the lively nightlife, Puerto Viejo promises an unforgettable Costa Rican experience.