Adventurer's Guide to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica

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Advisor - Rhonda Martin
Curated By

Rhonda Martin

  • Puerto Viejo

  • Costa Rica

  • Active Travel

  • Beaches

  • Nature Escapes

  • Small Town

  • Coastal

  • Local culture

Make some splash on the waves of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca beaches.
Curator’s statement

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, is a small surf town located on the Caribbean coast, a sweet relief from the heavily trafficked Pacific coast. It has been popular with backpackers and is a stones throw from the more famous Bocas Del Toro, Panama. While it's a Costa Rican town, it's heavily influenced by the Jamaican and Rastafarian culture.

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Where to stay in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica

Boutique Hotel Aguas Claras Puerto Viejo

An intimate, luxurious Costa Rican hideaway with an eye for art and design.

Fora Perks
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    $100 hotel credit.

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    Welcome treat in room on arrival.

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    Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.

Umami Hotel

A sensory-rich haven that tantalizes the senses, merging exquisite cuisine, artful design, and unparalleled hospitality.

La Paz del Caribe

A tranquil Caribbean oasis offering serene beaches, warm hospitality, and a rejuvenating escape from the everyday.

Namu Garden Hotel & Spa

A harmonious sanctuary where nature and luxury intertwine, providing a blissful escape for body and soul.

Unlock perks by contacting Rhonda to book your trip.

Things to do in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica

Cahuita National Park is where Costa Rica's untamed beauty and diverse ecosystems come together to create an enchanting haven of tropical biodiversity along the Caribbean coast.

Jaguar Rescue Center - Take a very informative tour to help support this non-profit organization. They focus on the rehabilitation of sloths, monkeys, birds, etc. Contrary to the name, there are no jaguars found here… yet.

Yoga at AmaSer

Surf - A true salty haven with about a dozen surf schools to choose from, or feel free to head straight to the beach where you’ll find a plethora of boards to rent. The infamous Salsa Brava wave beckons advanced surfers, while beginners can find plenty of calmer waves nearby.

White Water Rafting the Pacuare River - Both day trips and overnight trips are available to explore this stunning river winding through tall canyon walls.

Cahuita National Park - Just a short hop from the town's hubbub, this park extends an inviting hand to all nature enthusiasts. Whether you're hiking, basking on the beaches, snorkeling or indulging in a bit of critter-watching, it's a symphony of outdoor delights that awaits.

Beaches - Playa Negra, Playa Manzanillo, Playa Chiquita, Playa Punta Uva and Playa Blanca are all noteworthy - although you really can't go wrong with any beach here.

Take a guided tour to visit the indigenous Bribi Tribe and learn about their culture.

Day trips

Tortuga National Park - Can be added on as a day or overnight trip through Exploradores Outdoors.

While not necessarily a day trip, Bocas del Toro can easily be combined with Puerto Viejo. There are many options for private transfer, ferries and buses. While Puerto Viejo has more casual accommodations, you can find some more luxe options here to balance it out.

Places to eat & drink in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica

Rice & Beans W/ Red Snapper at La NENA, a Caribbean restaurant.

  • Bread & Chocolate - bakery, cafe and bean to bar chocolate. Delicious.

  • El Rincon Porteno - Argentinian

  • Que Quilombo - Argentinian

  • Señor Pargo - Located in the tiny town of Manzanillo.

  • La Pecora Nera Ristorante

  • Da Lime at Hotel Aguas Claras - Beach loungers, fun cocktails and a few "healthier" food options.

  • Reggae Bar - Great for post surf drinks and casual Caribbean food right on the beach.

  • La NENA - Caribbean food

Need to Know

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Local’s Guide to Estes Park, Colorado.



Advisor - Rhonda Martin

Travel Advisor

Rhonda Martin

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Costa Rica.