The South Caribbean

The Caribbean region has a tropical climate that is characterized by high temperatures, humidity, and rainfall throughout the year. Precipitation varies by month, with the months of February and March being the driest. The rainy season in the Caribbean runs from May to December. However, there is a break from the rainy season during September and October. These months also being two of the driest. 

Then there is also a phenomenon called “secret summer”, “little summer” or “veranillo de San Juan”, a brief period of dry and sunny weather that occurs in late June and early July on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. This phenomenon is also known as the San Juan Summer. During this period, which typically lasts for a week or two, the heavy rains of the rainy season subside and the weather becomes hot and dry. However, it's important to note that this phenomenon is unpredictable and is not guaranteed every year. 

The high humidity and rainfall support lush vegetation, including tropical rainforests, mangroves, and palm forests. The region is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. The coastal areas of the South Caribbean region are characterized by black and white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs. Although these reefs are not as collared as in some other parts of the world. 

Temperature and rainfall statistics are averages over a longer period of multiple years. The 'Average Days with Rain' statistic shows the average number of days per month that had rain, but this does not say anything about the duration of rain per day. Weather, especially rainfall, is difficult to predict and varies per year due to different influences. Visit the Seasons page for more information regarding weather and climate.

When you visit the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, you will notice that there are cultural differences between the Caribbean region and the rest of the country. The Caribbean side of Costa Rica is known for its diverse mix of Afro-Caribbean, with many residents descended from Jamaican and other Caribbean immigrants who came to the region to work on the banana plantations in the early 20th century, indigenous, and mestizo cultures, which reflects in the food, languages and music in the region. When it comes to music, the rhythms of calypso and reggae, can often be enjoyed at bars and festivals. Further down on this page, you can learn why calypso music and Cahuita are deeply connected. 

Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica and is spoken by the majority of the population, including on the Caribbean coast. However, on the Caribbean coast, there are several other languages that are commonly spoken. One of the most prominent of these languages is English Creole, also known as Limonese Creole, which is spoken by many of the Afro-Caribbean people who live in the region. The language is a blend of English, West African languages, and Spanish. There are also several indigenous languages on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, including Bribri. 

Cahuita is a small town located about 43 km (27 miles) south of Puerto Limón and a few kilometers north of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Cahuita is known for its beautiful beaches, which are surrounded by lush rainforest. The town itself is small and laid-back, with a mix of the Caribbean and Costa Rican culture. There are several restaurants and bars serving local and international food, and there are several budget and more exclusive accommodations in town and in the surrounding area. The town has a nice reggae vibe to it. North of the town is Playa Negra. This beach has black sand (similar to the Playa Negra in Puerto Viejo) and is known for strong waves, making it a popular beach for surfing. My favorite beach is Playa Blanca, located south of Cahuita. This beach is located next to the Cahuita National Park entrance and a nice beach bar. 

Further north of Cahuita, you can find the Sloth Sanctuary, where injured and orphaned sloths are treated. Here, you can learn about these iconic animals and see them up close. Cahuita offers a unique and authentic Caribbean experience and a good choice for those looking for something more tranquil compared to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and want to find themselves surrounded by nature. 

One of the main attractions of Cahuita is the Cahuita National Park.  The name Cahuita comes from the word "Kawe" which means "Sangrillo" which is a local tree and the word "Ta" which means "tip". This translates to "Punta Sangrillo". The park has approximately 24,000 hectares of marine coverage and 1,100 hectares of terrestrial coverage. Cahuita National Park is without a doubt one of the best national parks of Costa Rica in my opinion for a couple of reasons. It offers a unique combination of lush green rainforest, nice Caribbean beaches and beautiful marine life. The coral reef at Cahuita is considered one of the most important in the country. The park is very accessible, with good trails that follow the coastline. The park is home to a lot of animals of which sloths, monkeys, crocodiles, raccoons, ant eaters, snakes and poisoned dart frogs.

The main entrance of the Park is located in the town of Cahuita, where you can eat and relax before or after you have strolled through the park. The town is also the home base for some tour operators and guides that can take you to the park or on a snorkeling tour. The entrance fee of the park is a voluntary donation, and a guide is not mandatory. Check the official website of the national park for more information: SINAC ACLAC Cahuita NP. 

Another park that offers a similar experience is located south of Cahuita and Puerto Viejo near the town of Manzanillo, called Refugio Nacional Gandoca-Manzanillo.  This park is lesser known and receives fewer visitors compared to Cahuita National Park, but definitly worth your consideration.

Calypso music has a fascinating connection with the Caribbean region of Costa Rica, particularly the town of Cahuita. First, what is calypso. Calypso is a Caribbean music style which originated in Trinidad and Tobago during the early to mid-19th century and spread to other Caribbean islands before it set foot in Costa Rica at the end of the 19th century with the arrival of Jamaican and Antillean immigrants. The Costa Rican Calypso is also referred to as Calypso Limonense and retains the upbeat rhythms and social commentary of original calypso, but it also incorporates influences from other genres like reggae, salsa, and even cumbia. This creates a distinctive and dynamic sound specific to the Costa Rican context. Calypso serves as a cultural cornerstone for the Afro-descendant communities of Limón. The lyrics often contain social and political commentaries and views while addressing issues relevant to their lives, usually in a satirical way. In restaurants and bars in Cahuita and Puerto Viejo, you can often witness live performances of the music.

A legendary calypso singer-songwriter was Walter Ferguson, also known as Mr. Gavitt and Segundo. He played a crucial role in shaping the genre in Costa Rica, earning him the title of ‘King of Calypso’. He was born on May the 7th, 1919 in Panama and moved to Cahuita in Costa Rica with his family as a child. Cahuita is where he came in contact with the calypso genre. His music addressed social issues relevant to the Afro-Costa Rican communities, promoting cultural pride and understanding. He passed away on February the 25th, 2023, at the age of 103, leaving behind a rich musical legacy. Cahuita served as a source of inspiration for Ferguson's music. He was considered a local hero and a source of pride for the town.  'Computer' is my personal favorite from Walter Ferguson, I have added the song below. The other song, 'Segundo' from Kawe Calypso is a homage to Walter 'Segundo' Ferguson.

Explore where to stay in Cahuita

• Oasi Apartments, the best rated accommodation, located near the center of Cahuita and the Cahuita National Park entrance. Check out Oasi Apartments on Booking.com for great deals!

• Looking for a unique stay outside the town of Cahuita? Check out Piscina Natural on the Sea with natural tide pools on site. Check out Piscina Natural on the Sea on Booking.com for great deals!

Explore things to do in Cahuita

• Parque Nacional Cahuita, one of the best national parks of Costa Rica in my opinion is Cahuita National Park.

• Cahuita has two beautiful beaches. Visit Playa Negra located on the north-west side of town, or relax at Playa Blanca south-east of town right at the entrance of Cahuita National Park. 

Don't forget to check the Highlights Map for points of interest, activities, accommodations, and more.

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is located a bit south of Cahuita and is the largest beach town in the area, although still relatively small. The town was founded by Jamaican immigrants and is known for its Afro-Caribbean culture with a laid-back reggae atmosphere. The town also offers a variety of restaurants and bars, serving delicious Caribbean food and drinks. Have a typical Caribbean breakfast at Bread & Chocolate, have a drink or a bite on one of the beautiful beaches at the Salsa Brava Beach Bar or the El Sendero Beach Club, and definitely consider Lydia's Place for some local lunch or dinner. You will note that Puerto Viejo has a lively music scene, which includes reggae, calypso, salsa and bachata music. 

The town is surrounded by rainforest and palm tree filled beaches, with the famous Playa Negra at the north side of town, known for its black sand, and beautiful white sanded beaches south of town, including the well-known Playa Cocles and Punta Uva. These beaches, which are definitely among the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Surfing is also an option, with a few surf schools located in town. A perfect way to explore the area and visit these beaches, is by renting a bike and cycle all the way south to the town of Manzanillo. Other attractions in the area that are worth visiting are the Jaguar Rescue Center, and the indigenous Bribri tribe. 

Explore where to stay in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

• Kalawala Guesthouse, a top-rated guesthouse, located in the town center of Puerto Viejo.  Check out Kalawa Guesthouse on Booking.com for great deals!

• Looking for a unique stay outside the town of Puerto Viejo? Check out the amazing aWà Beach Hotel right at the beach near Punta Uva. Check out aWà Beach Hotel on Booking.com for great deals!

Explore things to do near Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

• Puerto Viejo is famous for it's wonderful and diverse beaches. With the black sanded Playa Negra located north-west of town and Playa Cocles located south-east of town. 

• Punta Uva, a great spot to visit. Playa Punta Uva is beautiful. The cliff with a lookout point has a cave going through it, and you can kayak the beach and the nearby river.

• Rent a bike and cycle all the way to Manzanillo. A great way to explore the wonderful beaches in between the two towns.

• Jaguar Rescue Center, an animal sanctuary for rehabilitation.

• Visit the BriBri Tribe and learn more about Costa Rica’s indigenous people and culture.

• Cacao Trails, Museo de Cacao, learn and experience everything about cacao.

Don't forget to check the Highlights Map for points of interest, activities, accommodations, and more.

Manzanillo is located south of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and is smaller compared to Cahuita and Puerto Viejo, but with the same Afro-Caribbean vibe.  If you want to be away from the crowds in the middle of nature and at one of the most beautiful beaches of Costa Rica, this is the place to be. The town has a few restaurants who are happy to serve you the catch of the day. You will find beautiful Eco lodges in the surrounding area, making it an ideal destination for those who want peace and quit and fully experience the Caribbean flora and fauna. 

The town is an excellent place for ecotourism, because located in Manzanillo is the main entrance of the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, which is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, including monkeys, sloths, and toucans. You can hike the trails, of which some will lead to beautiful secluded beaches.

One of the most popular attractions in Manzanillo is Playa Manzanillo, which is known for its golden sand, calm waters, and palm trees. Don’t forget to walk the beach to a nearby wreckage. Manzanillo is a lovely place to chill at the beach and the atmosphere is relaxed. When we started playing some soccer at the beach, other tourists and locals joined, and it turned out to be a great game with fresh coconuts for drinks during half-time and some beers after.

Explore where to stay in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

• Cabinas Yamann, is a great budget hotel, located in the town of Manzanillo.  Check out Cabinas Yamann on Booking.com for great deals!

• Looking for a great ecolodge option? Check out the amazing Congo Bongo Lodge. Check out Congo Bongo Lodge on Booking.com for great deals!

Explore things to do near Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

• The Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, a beautiful reserve similar to Cahuita National Park, but lesser known with fewer visitors.

• Visit the Yicel Shipwreck at the beautiful Playa Manzanillo.

• Witness endangered Great Green Macaws at the Ara Manzanillo reintroduction station.

Don't forget to check the Highlights Map for points of interest, activities, accommodations, and more.

When travelling to the South Caribbean by car, the main route from San Jose to the South Caribbean will be by driving Ruta 32 via Guapiles and Siquirres to Puerto Limón, from there taking Ruta 36 in the direction of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. An alternative route is to take Ruta 2 from San Jose to Cartago, taking Ruta 10 from there, which goes via Turrialba to connect with Ruta 32 at Siquirres. Note that this is a windy, mountainous route. During rainy season, occasionally there are problems with Ruta 32, mainly at the first part that goes through Braulio Carrillo National Park. In that case, the route through Cartago and Turrialba is a reliable alternative. There is also a lot of sightseeing to do around Cartago and Turrialba, which are more off the beaten path destinations, but more and more tourist choose to add this region as a stop when travelling to the Caribbean side. Check out the Exploring the Central Valley blog for an impression of this region. 

When travelling with public transport from the direction of San Jose, the number one option would be to take the bus with Autotransportes MEPE. When it comes to shuttle service, Caribe Shuttle operates shuttle services connecting destinations like Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Cahuita and Manzanillo with Puerto Limón (airport), San Jose, and La Fortuna. You can also fly with Sansa to the airport of Puerto Limón, get into town, and take the bus from Puerto Limón further down south.

For detailed descriptions and a map on how to get to the South Caribbean and for detailed descriptions and a map on how to travel between the Caribbean and the South Pacific and vise versa, check the Routes & Roads page. If you are travelling by car from the direction of San José, learn more about Ruta 32 on the Ruta 32 to the Caribbean page.

• North of the south Caribbean you will find The North Caribbean with Tortuguero National Park.

• West of the south Caribbean you will find The South Central Valley, a mountainous region with lush rainforests, volcanos, and beautiful valleys. This region is a great place to spend the night on your way to The South Pacific, or The Central Pacific.

• North-west of the south Caribbean you will find The North Central Valley with the nation its capital city.

• Many people decide to drive directly from the south Caribbean to The Northern Zone, with lush rainforests, volcanos and cloud forests.