Intro to the Caribbean of Costa Rica

The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica is simply magical.  In the Zona Caribe, as it’s called in Spanish, is the most ethnically diverse area in the nation; nearly all of the country’s blacks, Chinese, and indigenous population live here.

While the Caribbean is where the colonizing Spaniards first arrived, Jamaicans have had the biggest impact. Drawn here in the late 1800s by work on the railroads and in the banana fields, the island vibe permeates the entire area. The result is unique blend of culture and custom, flavor and flare, unique in all the world.

Puerto Limón is the biggest city in the area, a busy port town that is more about function than form.  North of Puerto Limón, swamps and rivers dominate the area. Waterways take the place of roads, and boats outnumber cars.

The beaches south of Limón take on the look of pure island fantasy with turquoise waters, coconut palms, coral reefs, enchanting little villages, wildlife-rich jungles, and beautiful beaches. Most wouldn’t trade their little piece of Limón, with its rain and its rough edges, for a dozen more developed beach towns on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.

From Limon there is a coastal road that links to the beach towns of Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, and Manzanillo.  Inland, the heavily forested Talamanca mountains are home to several large indigenous reserves.  Drive barely 15 minutes from Cahuita, and you are in Valle de las Estrellas.

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