Punta Uva

One of Costa Rica's most beautiful Caribbean beaches with turquoise water framed by lush jungle. Its calm, warm waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking amid a serene setting.

Things to do

• Snorkel the coral reef — The calm, clear waters off Punta Uva point shelter a shallow reef where you can spot tropical fish and coral just steps from shore.
• Kayak the mangroves — Paddle a rented kayak or take a guided tour along the tranquil mangrove estuary near the beach to see herons, sloths and monkeys.
• Swim at Playa Punta Uva — The warm, gentle turquoise water and soft sand make this one of the safest and most beautiful swimming beaches on the Caribbean coast.
• Hike the jungle headland — Follow the forest trail over the rocky point that separates the two beaches for panoramic ocean views and wildlife sightings.
• Cycle the coastal road — Rent a bicycle in nearby Puerto Viejo and ride the flat, shaded road connecting the beaches down to Manzanillo.
• Visit Gandoca-Manzanillo Refuge — Explore this protected wildlife refuge just south of Punta Uva with pristine beaches, jungle trails and nesting sea turtles.
• Sunrise on the beach — Facing east on the Caribbean, Punta Uva is a rare Costa Rican spot where you can watch the sun rise over the ocean.

Food to try

• Rice and beans — The Caribbean version cooks rice and red beans in coconut milk with thyme and Panamanian peppers, distinct from the highland gallo pinto.
• Rondón — A hearty Afro-Caribbean seafood stew simmered slowly in coconut milk with fish, yuca, plantain and tubers.
• Patí — A spicy Jamaican-style meat turnover sold by local vendors, filled with seasoned beef in a flaky pastry.
• Pan bon — A dense, sweet Caribbean bread flavored with molasses, dried fruit and spices, often sold at roadside stands.
• Fresh coconut water — Vendors machete open cold green coconuts (pipas) right on the beach for a refreshing drink.
• Whole fried fish with patacones — Freshly caught snapper or similar served whole with crispy smashed green plantains at beachside sodas.

Local customs & good to know

• Afro-Caribbean roots — The area's culture, food and Mekatelyu creole language come from Afro-Caribbean and Jamaican migrants, so expect a rhythm and flavor different from the rest of Costa Rica.
• Bring cash — Many small sodas, vendors and rental stands don't take cards, and ATMs are limited to Puerto Viejo, so carry colones.
• Pura vida and patience — Life runs on 'tico time' here, so service is relaxed and unhurried, embrace the slow pace rather than rushing.
• Respect wildlife — Sloths, monkeys and raccoons are common, so never feed them and secure your food and belongings on the beach.

Nearby

• Manzanillo — 4 km
• Playa Cocles — 5 km
• Puerto Viejo de Talamanca — 7 km
• Cahuita National Park — 17 km