Puerto Limón

The bustling port capital of the province and a major Caribbean cruise stop with a vibrant Afro-Caribbean heritage. Visitors enjoy its lively markets, colorful carnival culture and Parque Vargas with its sloths.

Things to do

• Spot sloths in Parque Vargas — Stroll this seafront park lined with royal palms where two- and three-toed sloths lounge in the trees.
• Explore the Central Market — Wander the bustling Mercado Central to sample tropical fruit, spices and Caribbean street snacks.
• Walk the malecón seawall — Follow the waterfront promenade past the port for Caribbean breezes and cruise-ship views.
• Visit Playa Bonita — Relax at this palm-fringed beach just west of town, popular for swimming and local weekend gatherings.
• Day trip to Tortuguero canals — Head north to the jungle waterways famed for nesting sea turtles, monkeys and caimans.
• See Isla Uvita — Look out to the small island offshore where Columbus reportedly landed on his fourth voyage in 1502.
• Experience Limón Carnival — If visiting in October, join the vibrant Día de la Raza festivities with calypso music, parades and costumes.

Food to try

• Rice and beans — The Caribbean version cooked in coconut milk with thyme and Scotch bonnet, distinct from Costa Rica's gallo pinto.
• Rondón — A hearty seafood stew simmered in coconut milk with tubers, plantain and fish or crab.
• Patí — A spicy meat-filled turnover of Jamaican origin sold from street vendors and bakeries.
• Pan bon — A dense sweet bread flavored with spices, dried fruit and cheese, an Afro-Caribbean specialty.
• Agua de sapo — A refreshing local drink made from tapa dulce (raw cane sugar), ginger and lime.

Local customs & good to know

• Embrace the Afro-Caribbean heritage — Limón's culture is shaped by Jamaican descendants, and you'll hear Mekatelyu creole English alongside Spanish.
• Stay alert in the port area — Keep valuables secure and avoid quiet streets after dark, especially near the market and docks.
• Move at a relaxed pace — Life here runs on a laid-back Caribbean rhythm, so expect unhurried service and flexible schedules.
• Carry small cash — Colones in small denominations are handy for markets, patí vendors and local buses.

Nearby

• Veragua Rainforest Park — 16 km
• Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica — 25 km
• Cahuita — 36 km
• Cahuita National Park — 37 km