Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Welcome to Puerto Viejo
Planning a trip to Puerto Viejo? Let me help you discover this incredible destination from a local perspective—the best beaches, hidden spots, and the right information to make your travels unforgettable.
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca—a laid-back beach lover’s paradise on the shores of the turquoise Caribbean Sea—offers adventure, some of the best beaches in Costa Rica, and lush jungle surroundings.
Once a small fishing village and cacao farming community, Puerto Viejo has transformed into a vibrant town with a melting pot of cultures. The African-Caribbean population, descended from Jamaican and other Caribbean island immigrants who arrived about a century ago, along with the native Bribri indigenous people, Costa Ricans from other regions, Panamanians, Nicaraguans, and expats from around the world, have all contributed to its unique atmosphere. This mix is reflected in the town’s international cuisine, lively local bars, and beachfront spots to relax and enjoy the view. No matter where you choose to hang out, the ocean will always be nearby.
Things to Know Before You Visit Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo is not just one destination—it’s part of a series of beach towns on Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean coast. When planning your visit, consider where you’d like to go and how long you want to stay in the area. If your time is limited, I recommend at least three days in Puerto Viejo. But the more time you can spare to explore, the better!
Things to Do in Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area, offering world-class surfing, national parks, countless Caribbean beaches, snorkeling, biking, ATV rentals, kayaking, sloth-spotting, and cultural experiences. It’s also a great starting point for visiting the Bribri indigenous community and its stunning waterfalls.
Beaches
The most popular beaches near Puerto Viejo include:
- Punta Uva – One of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, with calm, clear waters.
- Manzanillo – A peaceful spot located within Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge.
- Playa Chiquita – A hidden gem with fewer crowds and lush jungle surroundings.
- Cocles – A great beach for surfing and just a short walk from town.
- Cahuita – Home to Cahuita National Park, perfect for wildlife spotting and snorkeling.
- Playa Negra – Known for its unique black sand and laid-back vibe.
If you’d like to stay close to town, check out:
- El Chino (near Johnny’s Place) – A small beach right in Puerto Viejo.
- Salsa Brava – Famous for its powerful surf break and vibrant energy.
🛶 Local Tip: From Salsa Brava, there’s an easy walking trail along the beach that leads to Cocles. I highly recommend this walk! Keep an eye out for sloths along the way. Just before you reach Cocles Beach, you can explore a secret viewpoint of Cocles Island.
Waterfalls & Jungle Adventures
- Kekoldi Waterfall – If you’re up for an adventure, take the 10 km hiking tour to this hidden gem.
- Volio & Cataratas Waterfalls – Easier to reach with a short hike, perfect for a quick nature escape.
Visiting a waterfall or the jungle is a great activity for rainy days in Puerto Viejo.
Bribri Indigenous Experience
Puerto Viejo is close to the Bribri indigenous territory, where you can experience local traditions, chocolate-making, and their deep connection to nature. If you truly want to learn about their way of life, I recommend booking a tour with a Bribri family or community. Simply visiting Bribri town won’t give you the same immersive experience, as it mainly consists of small shops and restaurants.
Local Cuisine: Where to Eat in Puerto Viejo
Finding great food in Puerto Viejo is easy! Trying authentic Caribbean cuisine is a must, and some of my top recommendations include:
- Lidia’s Place – A local family restaurant with Caribbean flavors.
- Tamara – Great for traditional Caribbean dishes.
- Shakina – very traditional Caribbean “soda”.
- Take It Easy – Only open on weekends, but people’s favorite!
🍛 What to Try: Rice and beans cooked in coconut milk, served with Caribbean chicken or red snapper, and patacones (fried plantains). If you’re lucky, you might find Rondón, a flavorful seafood and coconut stew.
🍴 Street Food Tip: Try a pati, a Caribbean-style baked empanada. My favorite spot is near Hotel Puerto Viejo—they even have vegan options!
Beyond Caribbean cuisine, you’ll find Italian, Thai, Latin, Middle Eastern, and plenty of vegetarian/vegan options. Coffee lovers can enjoy high-quality brews at local coffee shops, and for a sweet treat, check out the ice cream spots near the bus stop.
Nightlife in Puerto Viejo
The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down! Puerto Viejo is famous for its lively nightlife, with beachfront bars, live music, and dancing every night of the week.
💃🏽 Local Tip: Ask your hotel or hostel where the best party is that night—it changes throughout the week! Most places get lively late, so don’t expect the dancing to start early. Expect a mix of reggae, Latin beats, and live bands on weekends.
Practical Information
Puerto Viejo has accommodations for every budget, from hostels to beachfront resorts. You’ll also find:
- Grocery stores & local markets
- Two banks & ATMs
- Pharmacies & medical clinics
- Bus ticket offices
- Bike & scooter rentals
🛍️ Shopping Tip: There are plenty of local arts and crafts vendors selling handmade souvenirs along the main streets—perfect for unique gifts!
Want More Local Travel Tips?
Puerto Viejo isn’t just one destination—it’s a gateway to incredible places waiting to be explored. Make sure to check out my other guides:
- Where to Stay in Puerto Viejo
- How to Get to Puerto Viejo
- My Top 5 Recommendations for Puerto Viejo
💬 Need help planning your visit? Book a quick call with me—I’d love to help you create the perfect itinerary so you can make the most of your time in Puerto Viejo!
