Golfito Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Golfito, Costa Rica with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the local culture, dining scene, transportation, and more.


Introduction to Golfito

Nestled in the South Pacific region of Costa Rica, Golfito is a small port town known for its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and tranquil coves. Once a bustling banana-port town, today, Golfito is a hidden gem, offering visitors a chance to escape the noise of the city and experience the peaceful life of a beach town.

List of Places to Visit in Golfito

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Histórico de Golfito: This is a small museum located in the town center that houses exhibits featuring the unique history of Golfito and its role as a banana port town in the early 20th century.
  • Fortín de San Carlos: Situated on the outskirts of Golfito, this fort was built in the 19th century by the Spanish to protect the town against English pirates.

Natural Attractions of Golfito: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Nacional Corcovado: One of the largest and most biodiverse national parks in Costa Rica, Corcovado is a wildlife paradise with miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, and beaches.
  • Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve: Located southeast of Golfito, this reserve is home to exotic birds, monkeys, and other animals, as well as a wide range of flora and fauna.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Golfito

  • Cascada Pavon: A 30-minute hike through the Golfito Wildlife Reserve will lead you to the stunning Cascada Pavon waterfall.
  • El Cerro de la Cruz: A popular hike for its stunning views overlooking Golfito and its bay.

Best Things to Do in Golfito: Activities and Tours

  • Fishing: Golfito is a prime spot for offshore fishing, with opportunities to catch sailfish, yellowfin tuna, and marlin.
  • Kayaking: Paddle through tranquil coves and mangroves of Golfo Dulce to see an abundance of wildlife while kayaking.
  • Surfing: Golfito has several great surf spots to catch awesome waves such as Playa Pavones which has the second longest left break in the world.

Week-Long Itinerary for Golfito

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at your hotel.

Day 2: Visit the Museo Histórico de Golfito and take a stroll through downtown Golfito.

Day 3: Explore Parque Nacional Corcovado and its surrounding area.

Day 4: Take a boat ride out to Isla del Caño, a national park teeming with marine life and an archaeological site.

Day 5: Hike or bike the El Cerro de la Cruz trail and get a panoramic view of Golfito’s bay.

Day 6: Relax on the beaches of Golfo Dulce and do some surfing or explore the forest reserve.

Day 7: Departure day.

Food and Drink Scene of Golfito

Must-Try Dishes

  • Casado: A traditional dish that includes rice, beans, a protein, and fried plantains.
  • Ceviche: Made with fresh seafood such as shrimp or fish and marinaded in citrus juice with onion and cilantro.

Local Beverages

  • Café Chorreado: A Costa Rican staple, this drip coffee is made by pouring hot water onto a coffee filter filled with finely ground coffee.
  • Imperial Beer: The most famous beer of Costa Rica in a recognizable green bottle.

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

  • Las Islas Lodge: An eco-lodge nestled amongst lush tropical vegetation, this is ideal for nature enthusiasts and eco-tourists.
  • Hotel Casa Roland: A beautiful boutique hotel that is close to both the town center and waterfront.
  • Samoa del Sur: A rustic, family-friendly hotel that has an on-site restaurant, pool, and a laid-back atmosphere.

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

  • Pura Vida Bracelets: Simple handmade bracelets made with bright colors and intricate designs.
  • Salsa Lizano: A unique sauce that you won’t find anywhere else, it is sweet with a slight jalapeño flavor.

Local Culture and Customs of Golfito

The residents of Golfito are friendly and proud of their town’s unique history. They appreciate visitors who respect the local culture, dress in casual and comfortable clothing and be courteous and friendly to the locals.

Best Time to Visit Golfito

Golfito has warm weather year-round with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 31°C. In months of September and October it can rain quite heavily. High tourist season is December to February, so plan accordingly if you’d like to avoid crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Golfito

Do:

  • Wear sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Respect the customs and culture of local people
  • Try the local cuisine

Don’t:

  • Swim outside designated swimming areas
  • Litter outdoor spaces
  • Assume everyone will speak English

Safety and Health

Safety in Golfito

Golfito is a safe town with infrequent incidents of violent crime. However, it is important to keep an eye on your belongings, safeguard valuables and keep an eye on your surroundings.

Health in Golfito

It is always good to have medical insurance coverage when traveling, particularly when taking part in adventure activities such as hiking or surfing. Golfito has a hospital to cater for any medical emergencies.

Getting to Golfito: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Golfito

The closest international airports to Golfito are San Jose International Airport and Juan Santamaria International Airport, with daily flights from North America, Europe and South America. Golfito has its airport with flights daily during high season.

Bus Stations Near Golfito

Tracopa is the main bus company, with services coming from San Jose, Quepos, and other cities. Terminal buses are located in the town center, with affordable and comfortable options.

Other Options

Another option for getting to Golfito could be to book a private transfer service that can take you from the airport or any nearby cities directly to your hotel in Golfito.

How to Get Around in Golfito

Taxis are plentiful in Golfito and an affordable way of getting getting around town. Driving is also an option, but be aware that roads can be narrow and winding.

Where to Go Next from Golfito: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Drake Bay: Just a boat ride away, Drake Bay is known for its whale watching and scuba diving opportunities.
  • Puerto Jimenez: Located in the Osa Peninsula, Puerto Jimenez is a hub for eco-tourism with many opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the pristine nature reserves of the region.

Conclusion

Golfito is a hidden gem that offers visitors a relaxed and refreshing break that a beach town should offer. With its beautiful natural scenery, delicious cuisine and welcoming locals, Golfito offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural beauty and culture of Costa Rica. This comprehensive guide should help you plan your itinerary and make the most of your trip to Golfito, Costa Rica.