Best things to do in and around Puerto Viejo

Waves, beaches, parties and much more things you can find in one of Costa Rica's most visited destinations. Want to know more? Read it here!

Puerto Viejo is known for the nature, the wildlife, the waves and the parties. It is easily reachable from San Jose by a bus (~6 hours) or a car (~4.5 hours). We passed by only for a weekend, and without a car, so we did not have the chance to experience all of it. Here is what we did manage to do and can recommend!

Manzanillo

Manzanillo is a small fishing village close to Puerto Viejo, it is of course easily reachable by car, but there is also a bus that will take you from Puerto Viejo to the Playa Manzanillo beach. This beach is the last one in the area and the road ends there. You can walk around and discover some amazing views like a beautiful beach, a jungle, and some monkeys jumping around the trees. It is a quiet place in case you want to stay away from the crowds.

Cahuita

Cahuita is a national reserve located to the north of Puerto Viejo, and once again reachable by both cars and public transportation. The trail on the park is about 8km long (so bring your water!) and you will be able to see the beautiful beach visible from the rain forest next to it. You will probably encounter the local inhabitants - monkeys, raccoons and sloths enjoying they chill life.

Salsa Brava Bar

As we were walking around town discovering what it has to offer we could not pass on the Reggae music we heard coming from that place. We went in for a beer and stayed until the small hours of the night. The place is on the beach, was packed with good people, and the music was great. All the necessary ingredients for a great party! I had so much fun that I even forgot to take a photo of the place!

Final thoughts

We missed out on a lot of things in the area because of the short time we had. There are waterfalls, even more beautiful beaches, animal sanctuaries, kayaking, chocolate and much more! We enjoyed a lot what we did do and therefore recommending it to other people. Go there, discover the area, and tell us where to go next time!