16 Best Things to do in Puerto Viejo Costa Rica, Top Things to do in Puerto Viejo De Talamanca, 2. Playa Manzanillo is just a 20-minute drive away from Puerto Viejo, and if you like marine life, it is a great place to visit. There you can arrange a private boat tour, where they will take you out on a snorkeling excursion that includes lunch. There are a handful of healthy and delicious cafes and restaurants to choose from: Bread and Chocolate: Wonderful brunch spot in town with healthy and vegetarian options. The communal areas are incredibly cozy, with a terrace with hammocks and a separate patio area. Playa Cocles is just a ten-minute drive (or a fifty-minute coastal walk) away from Puerto Viejo town center. There are buses at the park that can take you back to Puerto Viejo at the end of your visit. According to google maps it is a 4 hours drive. You likely came to Puerto Viejo to get a little R&R in the sun. But it isnt on most menus. After your morning surf lesson, or maybe just reading by the beach, treat yourself to brunch or a snack at Bread and Chocolate. Chill out at Punta Uva, visit the Jaguar Rescue Center, take a chocolate tour, enjoy Puerto Viejo nightlife or explore the Cahuita National Park. There are plenty of buses that depart San Jose regularly and you can buy tickets online in advance or at the bus station. To be honest, we didnt take any internal flights in Costa Rica, so Im not sure if they are typically on time or not. Small restaurants (aka sodas) are packed with traditional dishes to sample. After a busy day exploring all of the fun things to do in Puerto Viejo, grabbing a gelato is the perfect treat on a hot day! Moreover, pictures are also attractive and fascinating. The Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge protects some of the most endangered plants and animals. During these times, you will see the more advanced surfers out riding the powerful swells, but if youre a beginner, just stick to wading in the waves. Its a seaside town known for its stunning beaches, incredible food, and chill vibe that is perfect for a relaxing vacation. Discover the abundant wildlife on the parks rainforest trails. There is a lot to discuss Puerto Viejo, so this next section will provide FAQs for all the most commonly asked questions. The tours are offered at 10 am and 2 pm. If you like 3. Unlike the name implies, there arent actually jaguars at this place. The Caribbean South has Chocolate tour. Later in the evening, theyll have a DJ spinning beats so you can dance the night away. 1. One of the best things to do in Puerto Viejo is actually doing nothing at all! Whether you are a pro already or are just wanting to develop the basics, surf lessons are one of the most fun things to do in Puerto Viejo. There are many shuttles leaving from Bocas del Toro to Puerto Viejo. For the best experience, visit Punta Uva during the week rather weekend to avoid the extra crowds. The national park can only be reached by boat or plane, so one of the best ways to see it is by booking a tour package that includes all your transportation. If ever you come back one day, make sure to come say hi! The best time to visit Puerto Viejo is between February and April or September to October. Things to Do Even though the waves can get pretty intense here, I still know a lot of travelers who learned to surf on this beach and had a great time. Great question. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Home Destinations Caribbean Coast Puerto Viejo 25 EPIC Things to do in Puerto Viejo + Guide, Categories Destinations, Puerto Viejo, Things to do. This is one of the best restaurants in Puerto Viejo and you have to stop in for the fresh baking and to marvel at the display cases full of chocolate delights! Officially called Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, this small town on the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica is a pleasant place to spend a few days relaxing, taking in the chilled vibes, exploring the beaches and the nature reserves, learning about local wildlife, and practicing all sorts of water sports. But the rondon was fresh and tasty! Luckily two Puerto Viejo buses connect the town with the rest of the southern Caribbean coast. Things to do in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica The center is actually named after the first rescued animal that was brought in, which was a jaguar. Go on a chocolate tour. Then you can set your own schedule whether you want to go on a turtle nesting tour (available from July to October) or kayak through the canals. If you are struggling to find frequent flights to Limon International Airport, consider our second option. Calling all chocolate lovers! Chocorart 257 Farms By kitchen5 It's a short and easy walk with plenty of stops, mainly so David can cut fruit from 2. Playa Cocles is an exposed beach and reef break with great surf, no matter the tide making it a reliable place for surfing lessons. Here is a list of some of them. Youre sure to feel right at home and taken care of by the lovely staff at Tamaras. Still, the vast majority are released back into the wild fit and healthy. Chocorart 257 Farms By kitchen5 It's a short and easy walk with plenty of stops, mainly so David can cut fruit from 2. A visit to the National Center of Art & Culture. The center not only helps animals in need but is also a hub for research, attracting scientists from around the world. Its a special experience to immerse yourself in the culture here with welcoming guides who will show you their way of life. Each place makes it different according to their own style. Go Beach-Hopping From Puerto Viejo, you can enjoy sunny beach days at several gorgeous spots all along the Caribbean coast. Its located only 5 minutes from the center of Puerto Viejo or about a 20-minute walk. Here is what we recommend: Need more help planning your trip? THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui - 2023 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui Hotels Things to Do Restaurants Flights Vacation Rentals Travel Stories Cruises Rental Cars Central America Costa Rica Province of Heredia Sarapiqui Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui Things to Do in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui If you are planning to ride a bike in the evenings, it does get dark very quickly. I was able to rent mine for $32 USD for the entire week the last time I was in Puerto Viejo! Book your spot on Booking.com or HostelWorld.com. If you dont drive, you can also book a shuttle online or in person on the day. I arrived in Puerto Viejo by bus from San Jose, which is what most people do. On the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca or simply Puerto Viejo is a slice of paradise in Costa Rica. There is always something going on at the Selina! Make sure to keep an eye out! There are also loads of beautiful hotel options in and around Puerto Viejo that will make your jaw drop and keep your wallet full. Things to do in Puerto Viejo Costa Rica Although Costa Rica is arguably the most Westernized country in Central America, there 3. Snorkeling is only allowed with a certified guide to ensure the coral is protected. Things to do in Puerto Viejo - Costa Rica Take a cacao tour 10. Puerto Viejo is a fantastic place to visit. You can even see a shipwreck out on the beachfront! Playa Manzanillo is popular amongst divers and snorkelers alike, who love the beach for its calm waters and vibrant underwater scenery. Puerto Viejo Costa Rica Is this cautious enough in Puerto Viejo? You can drop into a class for $5 USD, just check the online schedule to see what is offered, or book a group wellness retreat. Things to do in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica Get ready to add these two trips to your list. There are even glamping options in teepee tents if you want a really adventurous experience. Find out thebest time to visit Costa Ricabased on regional weather patterns and your personal travel style. 11 San Jose, Costa Rica. Cho.co sounds like a fun place, would definitely check it out next time we are in Puerto Viejo! There are plenty of places to park along the beach, best spots are down further closer to Punta Manzanillo. You can only visit the Rescue Sanctuary with an public or private guided tour. Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center 3. This (also typically cheaper) option is to fly into San Jose International Airport. If you visit here, youll have the chance to learn about the reserve, hike in the area, explore medicinal herb gardens, see homemade crafts, and tour the iguana farm. The water is so calm and the area is full of amazing wildlife. Required fields are marked *. Playa Puerto Viejo: Right in front of the famous Johnnys Place is a soft sand beach for lounging all day. The swampy areas are a popular spot for turtle nesting, so you can expect to see several species of turtles and even crocodiles. There are great cocktails, and for food, the seafood ceviche and freshly-caught fish are amazing. Scarlett and her family will welcome you to this local spot to get you set for a kayaking adventure. The bus makes a 20-minute pit stop in Limon for a bathroom and snack break. The path leading towards the falls is tricky terrain, so I would recommend wearing proper shoes, not just your flip flops! These are offered Thursday through Monday at 2 pm and must be booked at least two weeks in advance. Visit the beaches 2. Check out our tips for visiting Puerto Viejo youll find the best restaurants, where to stay, how to get around and more! The best travel tips for visiting Puerto Viejo Best things to do in Puerto Viejo Best areas to stay in Puerto Viejo You can either learn to cook the dishes yourself or bounce around on a tasting escapade to all the best locally known spots. for a fun take on camping. Well, we were so inspired by this beautiful craft that we ended up visiting a Bribri village a couple days later and bought another carving! Once you make it down to the beach, make sure you check out Sloth Point. Manzanillo is a peninsula that juts out into the sea, just 13 km from town. Things to do in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica This blog may contain affiliate links. If navigating the public bus system sounds like too much effort, you can always book a shuttle instead. This gelato place is located on the corner by the bus stop, so its also a great treat to grab before you head out on a day trip or when you get back. Puerto Viejo Costa Rica is very alluring and beautiful place in the world. Nowadays, wild cats are rare to see at the center, but you will see lots of other animals like sloths, monkeys, opossums, toucans, deer, snakes, and more. With so many things to do in Puerto Viejo, the laid-back Latino lifestyle fused with oodles of Caribbean cool, plus the picture-perfect beaches and world-class surf make it a must-see destination on your journey through Costa Rica. Things To Do In Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica Choose between a private room or a classic hostel dormitory. Plus, youll get a bit of exercise. Things To Do In Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica A visit to the National Center of Art & Culture.