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Caribbean

ABOUT THE REGION

Spanning 5,027 square miles and boasting 200 miles of coastline, this region represents Costa Rica’s vibrant Caribbean side—stretching from the San Juan River in the north to the Sixaola River at the Panamanian border. At its heart lies the port city of Limón, a central hub for travel, culture, and tourism.

In the northern sector, visitors are drawn to the Tortuguero National Park and the Barra del Colorado National Wildlife Refuge, where green sea turtles nest along the beaches. This area is also a hotspot for sport fishing, particularly for sea bass, shad, and other regional species. A winding river system connects the port of Moín to Barra del Colorado, offering not only scenic exploration but also the primary route of transportation. Nature tourism thrives here—especially wildlife observation, with the area globally recognized for its birdwatching and sea turtle nesting experiences.

The southern sector offers a vibrant fusion of beach life, Afro-Caribbean culture, and natural beauty. Towns like Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, and Gandoca-Manzanillo are rich in character and offer pristine beaches, adventure activities, and nature-focused excursions, all complemented by the region’s lively music, culinary traditions, and cultural heritage. This part of the coast is famous for its coral reefs, multicolored sand beaches (black, yellow, and gray), lush coastal vegetation, and mid-to-high elevation forests.

Together, these elements create a dynamic destination where biodiversity, culture, and relaxation come together in a way that’s uniquely Caribbean and unmistakably Costa Rican.

Exploring the Caribbean zone

 

  • 750 km of rivers to paddle

  • 200 km of coastline to explore

  • Four  protected areas known worldwide for
    its bird and turtle observing activities

Caribbean Side of Costa Rica

WHERE TO GO

Caribbean

Central Pacific

Central Valley

Guanacaste

Nothern Plains

Puntarenas

South Pacific

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