Puntarenas Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Puntarenas, Costa Rica including natural attractions, outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, food and drink scene, where to stay, transportation options, safety and health tips, and more.


Introduction to Puntarenas

Located in the Central Pacific of Costa Rica, Puntarenas is a charming port town that attracts both international and local tourists. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. The town was once a bustling coffee and banana port city, but today, it’s a popular tourist destination with stunning natural attractions and modern amenities. In this comprehensive guide, we will tell you everything you need to know to plan your trip to Puntarenas.

List of Places to Visit in Puntarenas

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Puntarenas is a city rich in history and culture. Some of the best museums and historical places to visit include:

  • Puntarenas Marine Park – Explore the underwater world of Costa Rica through this marine park that exhibits the marine life, mangroves, saltwater swamps, estuaries, and more.
  • Casa de la Cultura – It is a cultural House of Costa Rica where you can attend various cultural events like music shows, dance performances, and art exhibitions.
  • Paseo de los Turistas – It is an iconic jetty that stretches for a kilometer and runs parallel to the beach. You can enjoy the sunset and the serene environment with a loved one.

Natural Attractions of Puntarenas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Puntarenas offers a wealth of natural attractions, from beaches to forests. Here are some of the best natural attractions to visit in Puntarenas:

  • Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve – This famous cloud forest is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica, with its diverse flora and fauna.
  • Bird Watching at Carara National Park – This park is home to over 400 bird species. Visitors can take guided tours or go hiking to watch birds.
  • Jaco Beach – This is one of the most popular beaches, where you can play beach volleyball, go surfing or simply relax on the golden sand.
  • Arenal Volcano National Park - Famous for its moonlike landscape and diverse wildlife, it is the perfect place for hiking, bird watching, and exploring.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Puntarenas

Puntarenas is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers. Some of the best hiking and biking routes include:

  • Peninsula De Nicoya Trail – This route stretches from Puntarenas to Santa Cruz and takes around six days. It offers stunning views and a diverse array of ecosystems.
  • Manzanillo Forest Reserve – This reserve is located in the southernmost tip of the Nicoya Peninsula and offers a variety of trails, from easy to challenging.
  • Curú Wildlife Refuge – This protected area features a range of habitats for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Best Things to Do in Puntarenas: Activities and Tours

There is no shortage of fun things to do in Puntarenas. Some of the top activities and tours include:

  • Zip lining through the canopy – Get a bird’s eye view of the forest canopy and enjoy an adrenaline rush with zip line tours.
  • ATV Tours – See the beauty of Puntarenas while cruising on an ATV tour.
  • Sportfishing – Puntarenas is known for its fishing, and you can try your hand at catching marlin, tuna, or sailfish while here.

Week-Long Itinerary for Puntarenas

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Puntarenas that covers some of the top attractions:

Day 1: Arrive in Puntarenas and explore the town’s markets and local cuisine.

Day 2-4: Spend your days exploring the natural attractions and enjoy outdoor activities. Visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and go on a zip line tour or take an ATV tour.

Day 5-6: Visit the historical places and museums, and immerse yourself in the culture of Puntarenas. Spend an afternoon at Paseo de los Turistas.

Day 7: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Jaco or go fishing in the open sea.

Food and Drink Scene of Puntarenas

Must-Try Dishes

Puntarenas offers a range of dishes that reflect the fusion of Caribbean, African, and Spanish influences. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Gallo Pinto – This is a breakfast dish that consists of rice and beans, seasoned with onions, garlic, and bell peppers.
  • Casado – This is a typical lunchtime dish involving rice, beans, meat, the tortilla, and salad.
  • Ceviche – This is a popular appetizer made with raw seafood that is marinated in lime juice, chili, and cilantro.

Local Beverages

In terms of local beverages, Costa Rican coffee is famous worldwide, but there are other options worth trying.

  • Guarana – It is an energy drink made from the seeds of the Guarana plant. It has a taste like cinnamon and is believed to improve concentration and energy levels.
  • Guaro – It is the national liquor of Costa Rica, made from sugar cane, and has a taste similar to vodka.

Where to Stay in Puntarenas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Puntarenas offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the options available include:

  • Budget Hostels – Puntarenas is home to several budget-friendly hostels, such as Hostel Pura Vida and Surf House Puntarenas.
  • Mid-Range Hotels – For a more comfortable stay, you can opt for hotels like the Amapola Hotel and the Alamar Apartments.
  • Luxury Hotels and Resorts – There are luxurious hotels and resorts like Los Suenos Resort and Marina and Doubletree Resort by Hilton.

What to Buy in Puntarenas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Puntarenas is known for its local handicrafts and jewelry. Some of the best things to buy include:

  • Handmade Pottery – You can buy unique pottery pieces that reflect the traditional technique of Costa Rica, including coffee cups, plates, and serving dishes.
  • Wooden Carvings – The region is famous for its carved wooden figures and bowls.
  • Jewelry – Costa Rica is home to some of the finest gold and silver jewelry in the world.

Local Culture and Customs of Puntarenas

The culture of Puntarenas is a fusion of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences. Family and community are at the center of the culture, and locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Best Time to Visit Puntarenas

The best time to visit Puntarenas is from December to April. During these months, the weather is generally dry and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits. May through November is the wet season, and tourists should be prepared for frequent rain showers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Puntarenas

Do:

  • Bring cash, as not all places accept credit cards.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases for communication.
  • Respect the locals, customs, and culture.
  • Carry a bottle of water and insect repellent while exploring the natural areas.

Don’t:

  • Wear flashy jewelry or show off expensive belongings.
  • Leave your belongings unattended.
  • Drink tap water, as it is not safe for drinking

Safety and Health

Safety in Puntarenas

Puntarenas is relatively safe, but tourists should take precautions to avoid theft and crime. Always be aware of your surroundings and do not walk around outside late at night. It is also important not to show off expensive belongings.

Health in Puntarenas

Tourists should be up to date on routine vaccinations before traveling to Costa Rica. Malaria is not prevalent in Puntarenas, but dengue fever is common. It is advisable to wear long sleeves and carry mosquito repellent.

Getting to Puntarenas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Puntarenas

The closest airport to Puntarenas is San Jose International Airport, which is around two hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Puntarenas

Puntarenas Bus Terminal is central to Puntarenas and serves buses from all over the country. You can catch the bus for San Jose or any other town from the terminal.

Other Options

Tourists can also hire a taxi or a private car to reach Puntarenas from San Jose.

How to Get Around in Puntarenas

The most popular mode of transportation in Puntarenas is by foot. Taxis are also a mode of transportation for tourists, while public transportation includes buses.

Where to Go Next from Puntarenas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Manuel Antonio National Park

Located to the south of Puntarenas, Manuel Antonio National Park is home to some of the best beaches in Costa Rica, and it offers the ideal surroundings for a break after spending time in Puntarenas.

Jaco Beach

One of Costa Rica’s popular surf towns, Jaco Beach is located near Puntarenas and is known for its beachside bars, restaurants, and nightlife.

Conclusion

Puntarenas has a lot to offer, from natural attractions to cultural landmarks, and it’s a must-visit destination in Costa Rica. There’s something for everyone here, from adventure seekers to those who prefer peaceful relaxation. With this comprehensive guide, you can confidently plan your itinerary and make the most of your trip to Puntarenas.

Puntarenas seen from a plane Puntarenas seen from a plane