Puntarenas
Cathedral of Puntarenas (Catedral de Puntarenas)
A historic cathedral located in the city centre, known for its neo-Gothic architecture and cultural significance. You can admire the intricate details inside and out.
Playa Doña Ana
One of the main beaches in Puntarenas, offering soft sands, calm waters for swimming and beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood. It’s a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
Muelle de Puntarenas (Puntarenas Pier)
A long pier extending into the Gulf of Nicoya, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the ocean and nearby islands.
Marino del Pacífico Park (Marine Park)
A small park with aquariums showcasing local marine life, including sharks, turtles, and tropical fish. It’s educational for those interested in marine biology.
Isla San Lucas
A former penal colony turned national park, it offers hiking trails, historical ruins, and wildlife viewing opportunities, including howler monkeys and iguanas.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Although not in Puntarenas city, Monteverde Cloud Forest is a popular destination known for its biodiversity, including hummingbirds, orchids, and the famous hanging bridges.
Tortuguero National Park
A remote park known for its vast network of canals, lagoons, and rainforest. It’s a prime spot for wildlife viewing, including sea turtles, monkeys, and colourful birds.
Puerto Limón
The main port city of Limón, known for its Afro-Caribbean culture, vibrant markets, and seafood cuisine. You can explore the local shops, art galleries, and taste traditional dishes like rice and beans.
Cahuita National Park
A coastal park known for its coral reefs, white sand beaches, and hiking trails through tropical rainforest. Snorkelling and diving are popular activities to explore the underwater marine life.
Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
Located south of Puerto Limón, this refuge protects coastal and rainforest habitats, providing opportunities to see sloths, toucans, and leatherback turtles nesting on the beaches.
Veragua Rainforest Research & Adventure Park
A private reserve offering canopy tours, hiking trails and a research station focused on rainforest conservation. It’s educational and offers thrilling experiences like zip-lining through the treetops.
Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica
A sanctuary dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of sloths. You can learn about these fascinating creatures, their habitat, and efforts to protect them in Costa Rica.
Playa Bonita
A beautiful beach near Puerto Limón, known for its calm waters and scenic views. It’s a relaxing spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the Caribbean coastline.