Puerto Limón Travel Guide
Discover the best things to do, places to stay, food and drink scene, and more in Puerto Limón. Get insider tips and a week-long itinerary for a perfect Costa Rican adventure.
- Introduction to Puerto Limón
- List of Places to Visit in Puerto Limón
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Puerto Limón
- Best Things to Do in Puerto Limón: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Puerto Limón
- Food and Drink Scene of Puerto Limón
- Where to Stay in Puerto Limón: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Puerto Limón: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Puerto Limón
- Best Time to Visit Puerto Limón
- Do’s and Don’ts of Puerto Limón
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Puerto Limón: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Puerto Limón
- Where to Go Next from Puerto Limón: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Puerto Limón
Puerto Limón is a lively and colorful Caribbean port town situated in the Limón Province of Costa Rica. It is known for its tropical climate, rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and fascinating history. Located on the eastern coast of Costa Rica, Puerto Limón is surrounded by lush tropical rainforests, sparkling beaches, and breathtaking mountains. With its blend of Afro-Caribbean and Latin American influences, Puerto Limón offers travelers a unique and unforgettable vacation experience.
List of Places to Visit in Puerto Limón
If you are planning to visit Puerto Limón, here are some of the top attractions you must see:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Limón Museum
- Casa de la Cultura
Natural Attractions of Puerto Limón: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Tortuguero National Park
- Cahuita National Park
- Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
Hiking/Biking Routes of Puerto Limón
- Bri-bri Indigenous Reserve Hike
- Cahuita National Park Hike or Bike ride
- Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge Hike
Best Things to Do in Puerto Limón: Activities and Tours
- Zipline in the rainforest canopy
- Visit a cacao plantation; learn how chocolate is made
- Take a boat ride through the Tortuguero Canals
Week-Long Itinerary for Puerto Limón
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival in Puerto Limon, check into your hotel and enjoy Limon’s nightlife |
| 2 | Visit local cultural attractions (Limón Museum, Casa de la Cultura), take in the stunning scenery of the Tortuguero National Park |
| 3 | Hike Cahuita National Park, zip line adventure in the rainforest |
| 4 | Relax on the beaches of Manzanillo & enjoy snorkeling |
| 5 | Take a boat tour through the Tortuguero Canals, learn about the area’s flora and fauna |
| 6 | Visit a cacao plantation, enjoy tastings & learn how chocolate is made |
| 7 | Departure day, relax in a local cafe or shop for souvenirs before leaving |
Food and Drink Scene of Puerto Limón
As with most places in Costa Rica, Puerto Limón has a vibrant food and drink scene. Be sure to try these local dishes and beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Rice and Beans (Gallo Pinto)
- Jerk chicken
- Rondon (a seafood stew)
Local Beverages
- Pipa Fria (cold coconut water)
- Cacique (local rum)
Where to Stay in Puerto Limón: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Park Hotel
- Hotel Playa Westfalia
- Playa Bonita Lodge
What to Buy in Puerto Limón: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Hand-rolled cigars
- Unique crafts and jewelry made from local materials
Local Culture and Customs of Puerto Limón
Puerto Limón has a diverse cultural heritage, influenced by Afro-Caribbean and Latin American traditions. Visitors should respect the local culture and customs, which include celebrating Carnival in February and exploring African, Spanish, and indigenous cultural traditions throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Puerto Limón
The best time to visit Puerto Limón is from December to April. This is the dry season, giving you the best chance to make the most of your trip.
Do’s and Don’ts of Puerto Limón
Do:
- Try local foods and beverages
- Respect the local culture and customs
- Take advantage of outdoor activities and scenic views
Don’t:
- Wear flashy jewelry or carry expensive electronics on the streets
- Leave valuables unattended on the beach or in public
- Disrespect the local culture or customs
Safety and Health
Safety in Puerto Limón
Like any other city, Puerto Limón experiences a few safety concerns; visitors should take necessary precautions, such as
- Sticking to highly populated areas
- Refrain from walking around alone at night
Health in Puerto Limón
Visitors are advised to take malaria medication and seek medical attention before traveling.
Getting to Puerto Limón: Transportation Options and Logistics
Puerto Limón is easily accessible by different modes of transportation, including:
Airports Near Puerto Limón
- Limón International Airport
Bus Stations Near Puerto Limón
- Coca Cola Station (in San Jose)
Other Options
- Taxi or private car hire
How to Get Around in Puerto Limón
The best way to get around Puerto Limón is by bus and taxi. Visitors can also rent bicycles and explore this beautiful city.
Where to Go Next from Puerto Limón: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
There are several destinations for visitors to explore once they are done with Puerto Limón, including:
- Tortuguero National Park
- Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge
- Cahuita National Park
Conclusion
Puerto Limón is an incredible destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Costa Rica. Be sure to plan your activities ahead of time to make the most of your trip to this vibrant, colorful city.
