Cocles Travel Guide

Cocles is a fun, vibrant beach town just south of Puerto Viejo along Route 256. It’s home to the Caribbean coast’s most popular surf beach and has a lively, laid-back vibe. At sunset, locals and travelers gather to play beach volleyball, work out at the free beach gym, or grab something tasty from the many new restaurants, street food stands, smoothie bars, and coffee shops. If you’re looking to hang out at a beach with a crowd and soak in the local energy, Cocles is the place to be.

Beach & Nature Activities

Cocles Beach is great for surfing, swimming, or simply relaxing under the palm trees. Lifeguards are on duty during the day, making it a safer option for ocean play. Volleyball nets stay up all day, and several surf schools offer lessons and board rentals right on the sand.

Next to the beach, the Cocles River flows calmly into the sea. It’s a peaceful, family-friendly spot, perfect for kayaking. If you’d like to explore it with a guide, contact us to book a river kayak tour.

For those who love a nature walk, you’ll find jungle trails leading from Cocles to Puerto Viejo. Along the way, you can stop at a scenic viewpoint with panoramic ocean views. To find the viewpoint, head to the north end of Cocles Beach and look for a small trail past the last beachside property. The path can be a bit muddy, but it’s a short hike, and the views over the coastline and Cocles Island are well worth it.

Where to Eat & Drink

Cocles offers a variety of casual dining spots and beach bars, plus excellent street food on weekends. Local vendors serve traditional Afro-Caribbean dishes like coconut rice and beans, grilled chicken, and patacones. You’ll also find plenty of snacks, sushi, smoothies, coffee, and cold beer.

Some of our favorite spots include:

1. Take It Easy – Weekend street food favorite with tasty Caribbean rice and beans. 
2. Sushi Waves – Fresh sushi with a Peruvian-Chilean twist, right on the beach. Great vibe and ocean views. 
3. Playa 506 – Chill beachfront hostel with a bar and restaurant offering snacks and craft beers. 

Staying in Cocles

Cocles is a great place to stay if you want to be close to Puerto Viejo but enjoy more peaceful nights. You’ll find everything from boutique hotels and eco-lodges to vacation rentals. Grocery stores carry most essentials (though prices are higher—more budget options are available in town), and bike rentals are easy to find.

What to Do in Cocles

• Take a Surf Lesson or rent a board from the local surf schools. 
• Swim or Relax at the beach, under the watch of local lifeguards. 
• Kayak the Cocles River—ideal for families or anyone seeking a calm jungle experience. 
• Walk the Jungle Trail to the ocean viewpoint or continue to Salsa Brava and Puerto Viejo. 
• Enjoy Caribbean Cuisine at beach restaurants and food stalls. 
• Join or Watch a Soccer Game—open matches are held Tuesdays and Thursdays. 
• Take a Yoga Class in one of the hidden jungle studios. 
• Play Beach Volleyball in the late afternoon. 
• Work Out at the Free Beach Gym, open all day. 

Things to Be Aware Of

• White-faced monkeys are clever thieves. Don’t feed them—even to trade for something they took! 
• Howler monkeys are harmless but might drop a surprise—avoid standing directly beneath trees. 
• Parking can be limited. You’ll likely have to park along Route 256. If no spots are available near the beach entrance, drive a bit farther down the road.
  
• Rip currents occur in front of the main beach entrance—swim with caution. Other areas of the beach are generally safer.