PUERTO VIEJO BEACHES
A list of the best beaches in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, that you need to visit in your next visit to the Caribbean Coast.
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, in the Limón province,is the definition of a tropical beach paradise. Located in the Caribbean Coast this town and its surroundings is home to some of the most beautiful and unique beaches in Costa Rica.
With so many amazing beaches to chose from, it is hard to find the time to visit them all! After spending a lot of time exploring the area and photographing these beaches, I have compiled this shortlist with the best beaches in Puerto Viejo to get you inspired.
Key Takeaways
- Best beaches in Puerto Viejo
- Puerto Viejo shipwreck beach
- Costa Rica Caribbean beaches
- Best beaches Costa Rica
PUERTO VIEJO BEACHES
PLAYA CHINO OR PUERTO VIEJO BEACH
With palm trees lining along the beach, Caribbean feel bars and restaurants and a truly Rastafarian vibe, you do not need to go to far to enjoy one of the coolest beaches in the area.
Playa Chino is located in Puerto Viejo town and its names comes from the historic “Manuel Leon store” that was known as “el Chino”.
The beach is not only a beautiful and vibrant spot in town but a well known spot for snorkeling in the area.
You can walk along the coast and admire the beautiful palm trees and spot the shipwreck lying on a few meters away from the shore.
While this beach has a magical Caribbean vibe it can get pretty busy and noisy specially during sunset time.
PLAYA NEGRA
This stretch of black sand beach extends for more than 10 Km from the West entrance to Puerto Viejo to the NortEast at the Cahuita National Park.
The beach is very popular among beginner surfers and as it is located just at the entrance of town you can find several different accommodation options in front of the beach.
As you walk towards the North the beach becomes really quiet and you could have the beach just for yourself or you might have to share it with some wild horses.
Ask the local authorities before swimming as currents vary and can be strong during some periods of the year.
The beginning of Playa Negra is so close to Puerto Viejo that you can reach it by foot.
PLAYA COCLES
Playa Cocles is the first beach South of Puerto Viejo town, jus 3,8 km. The beach is located in the heart of a well developed small village and it is easily reached by bike as the terrain from Puerto Viejo to Playa Cocles is flat.
There are plenty of accommodation and hotels in the village and it is a very popular spot for surfers.
The beach is not only ideal for surfing but also for walking and sunbathing. There are usually peddlers on the beach selling food and coconut.
Despite being a very popular spot and one of the most stunning beaches in Costa Rica is not usually too crowded as it is 2 Km long.
PLAYA CHIQUITA
This little village lies 6 Km away from Puerto Viejo and it is the perfect getaway for those looking a quiet alternative to the more busy beaches close to the town center.
The beach is a picture perfect set up with palm trees and pristine aquamarine waters, full of life.
Snorkeling from the shore is possible. You will be greeted with a wide variety of marine life while taking a break from relaxing in the Sun.
There are also several gardens with beautiful butterflies such as the endemic blue morpho.
The beach is an ideal starting point for many hikes in the surrounding areas.
PUNTA UVA
Punta Uva is my opinion, the prettiest of Puerto Viejo’s beaches. It is located 9 km from the town center and it can also be accessed by bike, which was my favorite mode of transport when visiting the area.
Punta Uva is one of the least developed areas around Puerto Viejo and it has not yet been taken over by resorts and mass tourism.
The beach is located within Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge so there are many opportunities for the viewing of wildlife.
Pay attention for sloths and monkeys. There are several guest houses and hotels in the area but not big supermarkets so for big supplies, other than groceries you will need to head to Puerto Viejo.
Make sure you carry everything you need if you are planning to spend a few nights here.
PLAYA GRANDE
Playa Grande is located 13 Km from Puerto Viejo centre and it is just another stunning golden Caribbean sand beach brimming with palm trees and kissed by an ocean of unrivaled beauty.
The beach is ideal for surfing or just chill out and relax under a palm tree.
You can either stay in Puerto Viejo or Manzanillo when visiting this beach.
CAHUITA (NATIONAL PARK)
The Cahuita national park in the province of Limon features a breathtaking white sand beach. And ideal base for starting one of the many hiking trails inside the national park and culminate your day doing some snorkeling in its dazzling aquamarine water.
The park lies 17 Km North of Puerto Viejo and there are daily buses going there. Spare one day to visit the beach as your visit will not be complete unless you spoil unless one of the hiking trails in the park.
The chance to see wildlife is very big so be photo prepared bringing your Zoom lenses and setting “burst mode”.
HOW TO GET TO PUERTO VIEJO
You can get to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca from San Jose by public bus or minivan. The public bus a around 11 $ but it takes much longer as it has several stops along the way and you get the risk to have to stand part of your trip.
The best way to reach Puerto Viejo from San Jose is by minivan. There are several companies that make the trip and it will cost you around 50$.
I used myself Interbus and I can recommend it. The ride was smooth and we got there in around 6 and half hours.
WHERE TO STAY IN PUERTO VIEJO
My recommended stay in Puerto Viejo are:
Las Casitas de Punta Uva: Located in the outskirts of Puerto Viejo in front of Playa Negra, these houses are fully equipped with all you need to self cater your stay in Puerto Viejo. They also rent bikes that you can use to visit the area.
COSTA RICA BEACHES FAQs
CAN YOU SWIM IN PUERTO VIEJO COSTA RICA?
Yes, you can swim in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica. However some of the beaches have strong currents , wind and waves,so you should consult the daily conditions before attempting to swim.
IS PUERTO RICO COSTA RICA WORTH IT?
Yes, Puerto Rico is worth a visit. The town chill out Caribbean atmosphere and food, the stunning beaches and wildlife around will make your visit an unforgettable experience.
I stayed in Puerto Viejo for a week beach hopping and exploring the area and I wish I will be back in the future as the area is truly spectacular.
Puerto Viejo is also home to some of the best beaches in Costa Rica.
IS THE WATER IN PUERTO VIEJO SAFE?
Yes, Puerto Rico is safe and local people are friendly. However as in any tourist destination you should take precautions and avoid to walk alone at night in deserted areas.
IS PUERTO VIEJO A PARTY TOWN?
Yes, Puerto Viejo is a party town. While the atmosphere is pretty relaxed during the day, the town comes alive at night. There are usually beach parties and cool bars in town.
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