The best way to get around town! Rent a bicycle from Puerto Viejo Bike Rentals, with options for free in store pick-up or bike delivery to your door for a small extra fee, they offer a great, friendly service and have the nicest bikes in town!
THINGS TO DO
Come visit
Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is a popular tourist destination. Slightly off the beaten track, it has gained popularity over the years for its biggest and most powerful wave in Costa Rica, known as Salsa Brava. It is also home to stunning beaches with crystal clear waters and a lot of wildlife.
WHERE THE JUNGLE MEETS THE SEA
Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is located in the Limon province on the shores of the Caribbean Sea. Boasting exotic flora and fauna it is a vibrant, eclectic seaside town with pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and home to many species of wildlife. It is paradise; where the jungle meets the sea!
Formerly a tiny fishing village, Puerto Viejo has a relaxed atmosphere and is a lively place to have a fun relaxing vacation. A tourist hot spot and a must see destination while in Costa Rica, it is truly unique compared to other parts of Costa Rica.
It has a tropical climate and the temperature remains consistent throughout the year at around 30 degrees Celsius. Sunrise and sunset are around the same time throughout year (about 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM).
The closest airport is Limón International Airport which is 55 km away, although most people prefer the drive from San Jose to Puerto Viejo.
The most popular mode of transportation in town is a bicycle; tourists and locals alike enjoy the flat, scenic ride all the way from Playa Negra to Manzanillo. Bikes and scooters are available to rent.
The area is home to a few beautiful but wild jungle waterfalls, although they're a bit of a hike through the jungle it's well worth it!
For those who are looking for nightlife, Puerto Viejo boasts some cute little bars and restaurants. Continue reading to find out our top picks and favorite things to do.
OUR TOP PICKS
What to do?
Help to support a wonderful cause! Sloth Conservation is a local registered non-profit organization dedicated to saving sloths in the wild. Donate or visit their store to buy sloth souvenirs.
Punta Uva
A great, flat ride around 8km south of Puerto Viejo. It was voted as one of the 23 best beaches in the world. The water is clear, warm and the scenery is spectacular. Check out Arrecife too!
Dos Aguas Waterfalls
Best visited with a local guide. It's a short hike down to the waterfall from the main road heading to the town of Bri Bri. The water is cool, refreshing and the jungle scenery is spectacular.
Photography &
Design Studio
If you're after professional photographs, get in touch with Elena. She's fluent in English & Spanish and offers both private family/couples portrait sessions either in her studio or on location. Click on her logo to be directed to her website to see her portfolio.
Support another wonderful local cause! The centre is dedicated to the rehabilitation of mistreated, injured, orphaned, and/or confiscated animals. Take a private, group or night tour, or even volunteer with them.
Gandoca-Manzanillo National Park
12km south from Puerto Viejo lies the tiny town of Manzanillo. You can walk the National Park and go to see the beautiful coastal view at the lookout point. It's worth the small walk through the park!
Cahuita
18km from Puerto Viejo, lies the small town of Cahuita. The Cahuita National Park has a beautiful trail through the jungle and beach. It's the best place to go see wildlife.
OUR TOP PICKS
Where to eat?
Take it Easy
Located in Cocles on the weekends, Take it easy hands down has the best Caribbean street food you can get! Meats, fish, vegetables and famous coconut rice and beans all bursting with flavor. Chris makes traditional Caribbean dishes with love and a whole lot of heart. Our number one recommendation for food in the area.
Pura Gula
Fusion cuisine - Vegetarian, Meat, Fish & Seafood. Delicious desserts. Organic produce, generous portion sizes. Enjoy live music there on Thursdays & Saturdays. One of our favorite restaurants to eat.
Located right on the water at 'Chino Beach' they have a delicious all vegetarian menu with fresh local produce, smoothies great coffee. It's a great spot to watch the sunset also.
An Italian restaurant established in 2003, by 3 brothers who came to Costa Rica in search of an eternal Summer. Great traditional Italian cuisine and a nice atmosphere on the weekends.
El Rincon Porteño
Argentinian Cuisine, great meats on the grill and hamburgers. They also do pizzas and pastas. It's a great spot to sit and feel the ocean breeze while enjoying the best Argentian Grill in town.
Offers an extensive breakfast and lunch menu. It's a great bakery with lots of fresh baked goods and "bean to bar" chocolates and desserts.