Great destination Costa Rica, Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo – Costa Rica
Puerto Viejo is a destination located in the middle of a beautiful jungle, which makes it spectacular. Puerto Viejo in turn is packed with beautiful beaches located just a few blocks from the city centre or if you wish you can also go further afield and seek out many of the paradises that this area has to offer. The further you get away from the city the more beautiful the scenery becomes. However, be careful not to walk through the dense jungle at night. If you go by car, you can stay at Playa Cocles, which is a beach not far from the city, Playa Chiquita is also a very good option.
There are a lot of Afro-Caribbeans living in the town of Puerto Viejo and if you want a more local experience it might be good to stay in town. However, because there is a party every night in Puerto Viejo it can get a bit tedious because of the noise. Hostels are a bit cheaper inside the city. If you want to party then it would be better to stay in town.
– What to do in and around Puerto Viejo:
- Visiting Cahuita
This was a spectacular day. We decided to have a day in the jungle and what better than to go to Cahuita. There we walked for almost 4 hours. We enjoyed nature and at the same time with the number of monkeys that inhabit the whole reserve, we also found small snakes, iguanas and many more animals. In the most remote part of Cahuita, you can also snorkel.
- Visit the Jaguar Rescue Centre.
This was a destination that I thought was not worth visiting but after having been there I was very happy to have visited it. It is an animal rescue centre where many injured animals are taken to be treated and after they get better they are returned to their natural habitat. I was able to see up close spectacular animals such as frogs, alligators, lions, anteaters and many more.
- Visiting wildlife in Manzanillo
- Surf
- Caribbean’s chocolate tour
- Snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding
Playa Negra
It is located in the north of Puerto Viejo in the direction of Cahuita. Not many people visit this area and it becomes a popular destination for people who want to rent a house for a couple of days. The beach has a black colour that stretches for many kilometres and it is very easy to find a place for one person. However, the heat can become unbearable.
Playa Cocles
It is located about 5 kilometres away from the city and is quite quiet. This beach is a bit more dedicated to sunbathing and surfing. Swimming is not recommended as the currents tend to be a bit strong. “Beach Break is the most popular beach in the area and is the only one with lifeguards.
Playa Chiquita
It is located about 7 kilometres away. The energy of this beach is said to be quite cheerful. Many foreigners come to this beach with their children and some food to relax in the sunshine. There are several natural pools created by coral reefs.
Punta Uva
Located about 12 km away, this destination has a lot to offer. It is practically inside the dense jungle. It is very popular for families who want to spend long periods in Puerto Viejo. Its beaches are famous for swimming, and snorkelling and are said to be the most famous in Costa Rica.
Manzanillo
15 km away, Manzanillo is a quiet area with a lot of animal life around it. If you are looking for an experience close to animals, tranquillity and don’t mind walking for almost 30 minutes to the city this is a very good option. The place gets a bit crowded on weekends with locals wanting to BBQ and relax on the beach.
– Where to party in Puerto Viejo
- Lazy Mon
- Salsa Brava
- Tasty Waves (Playa Cocles)
– When to visit Puerto Viejo
- Surfing season: December – March
- Dry season: February – May, August – October
- Rainy season: June-July, November – December
Here are some photos of this adventure:
– For more tips about Puerto Viejo, visit this page:
