Known formally as Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Puerto Viejo de Limón, or simply Puerto Viejo Costa Rica, this Caribbean town is renowned for its exceptional surfing, diverse flora and fauna, and unique blend of Afro-Caribbean, native BriBri, Costa Rican, and international cultures from a diverse expat community.
While traditional Costa Rican cuisine is a staple, the town also boasts an impressive range of international culinary offerings, as well as a strong presence of Jamacian and Rastafarian culture throughout the community.
Despite its status as the most popular tourist destination on this side of the country, Puerto Viejo still retains its small-town charm. The region is replete with natural wonders, including Cahuita National Park, the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge, popular beaches such as Playa Chiquita, Playa Negra, and Punta Uva, and one of the country’s most powerful surf breaks: Salsa Brava.
Sloths, howler monkeys, and a vast array of parrot species are just a few of the creatures that call this region home. Visitors can partake in a variety of activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving coral reefs, taking canopy tours, hiking, kayaking, and biking around the region.
The villages of Cahuita and Manzanillo, which surround Puerto Viejo, are also a popular destination for travelers heading south into Panama’s coastline, including the idyllic Bocas del Toro.
