Cahuita National Park: A Caribbean Coastal Treasure
Discover Cahuita National Park: Where lush rainforest meets vibrant coral reefs on Costa Rica's stunning Caribbean coast.
Cahuita National Park, located on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, is a protected area known for its stunning white-sand beaches, lush rainforest, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse wildlife. Established in the 1970s, the park offers hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife observation opportunities.
A brief summary to Parque Nacional Cahuita
- Av. 71 215, Cahuita, Limón Province, CR
- +50627550461
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring insect repellent, especially if hiking in the rainforest, as mosquitoes can be prevalent.
- Snorkeling is only allowed with a certified guide to protect the coral reefs.
- Consider visiting during the dry season (December to April) for better underwater visibility.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the coastal trail, which can be hot and humid.
- Donate to the park at the Kelly Creek entrance to support conservation efforts.
Getting There
-
Walking
From Cahuita town, the Kelly Creek entrance is easily accessible on foot. The bus from Puerto Viejo or San Jose will drop you off in Cahuita town. From the bus stop, it's a short walk south to the park entrance. Follow the main road through town, and you'll find the entrance on your left, near the beach. Remember that entry here is by donation.
-
Public Transport
To reach Cahuita National Park from Puerto Viejo, take the local bus towards Limón. The bus will drop you off in Cahuita town. From there, you can walk to the Kelly Creek entrance. The bus fare is approximately 1000 colones (around $2 USD). Buses run approximately every hour.
-
Taxi
From Puerto Vargas entrance, if you want to go to Cahuita, you can take a taxi or a local bus. A taxi from Puerto Vargas to Cahuita or Puerto Viejo will cost around 1000 colones (approximately $2 USD). The buses don't have a set schedule but run about every hour.
-
Parking
If driving, parking is available at both the Kelly Creek and Puerto Vargas entrances. Parking costs around 3,000 colones (about $5.65 USD) for the day. The parking lot for the main park entrance is near the center of Cahuita town, and the Puerto Vargas entrance is close to the ranger station.
Discover more about Parque Nacional Cahuita
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cahuita National Park Hotel And Restaurant
0.0 km
Experience the beauty of Costa Rica's Caribbean coast with comfortable accommodations and easy access to Cahuita National Park's natural wonders.
Alby Lodge
0.1 km
A serene lodge near Cahuita National Park, offering comfortable accommodations and a tranquil escape in Costa Rica's Caribbean paradise.
Cabinas Palmer
0.2 km
Experience tranquility and nature's beauty at Cabinas Palmer Makanda, your gateway to Cahuita National Park and the Caribbean coast.
Cabinas Surf Side
0.4 km
Experience Cahuita's charm: Budget-friendly cabinas near beaches, Cahuita National Park, and vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture.
Las Olas
0.4 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Costa Rica's Caribbean coast at Las Olas Restaurant in Cahuita. Fresh, local cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Ciudad Perdida Ecolodge
0.4 km
Discover tranquility at Ciudad Perdida Ecolodge in Cahuita, Costa Rica. Explore nature, relax in comfort, and experience the Caribbean vibe.
Cahuita's Taste Caribbean Soul Food
0.5 km
Savor authentic Caribbean cuisine in Cahuita, Costa Rica, with fresh seafood, flavorful dishes, and a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere.
Cabinas Arrecife
0.5 km
Experience tranquility at Cabinas Arrecife in Cahuita, Costa Rica. Relax by the sea and explore the nearby Cahuita National Park.
Cahuita Inn
0.5 km
Experience tranquility at Cahuita Inn, your gateway to Cahuita National Park and the stunning Caribbean coast of Costa Rica.
Facilidades marinas del Parque Nacional Cahuita
0.5 km
Explore Cahuita National Park's vibrant coral reefs and lush rainforests from its essential marine access point.
Lilan Nature
0.6 km
Experience tranquility near Cahuita National Park: luxurious villas, private pools, and lush gardens await your serene Costa Rican escape.
Ocean View Lodge -Cahuita-
0.7 km
Experience beachfront tranquility at Ocean View Lodge in Cahuita, Costa Rica. Your gateway to nature, relaxation, and Caribbean charm.
Cabinas Tito
0.8 km
Discover tranquility at Cabinas Tito in Cahuita: comfortable cabins, lush gardens, and easy access to Playa Negra and Cahuita National Park.
Hotel Los Cielos del Caribe
0.9 km
Discover tranquility at Hotel Los Cielos del Caribe in Cahuita, Costa Rica, with stunning views and easy access to nature's wonders.
La Casa del Mango, Ocean/Mountain Views & Pool.
1.1 km
Experience Caribbean bliss at La Casa del Mango in Cahuita: Ocean views, private pool, and nature's tranquility await your escape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nature & Birding Tours
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking wildlife and vibrant ecosystems of Cahuita through unforgettable nature and birding tours amidst stunning landscapes.
Mirador Ots Omarini
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Mirador Ots Omarini, a must-visit lookout in Cahuita, Costa Rica's natural paradise.
Artesano San Carlos - Cahuíta
0.1 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures at Artesano San Carlos in Cahuita, a celebration of local Costa Rican artistry and culture.
Playa Blanca
0.1 km
Discover Playa Blanca: Pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant wildlife in Costa Rica's Cahuita National Park.
Mirador Cahuita Arandia Arzabe
0.2 km
Discover the stunning views and serene atmosphere of Mirador Cahuita Arandia Arzabe, a breathtaking viewpoint in Limón Province, Costa Rica.
Monumento a Walter Ferguson
0.2 km
Explore the Monument to Walter Ferguson in Cahuita, a vibrant tribute to Costa Rican music and culture nestled in Limón Province.
Parquecito Cahuita
0.2 km
Explore Parquecito Cahuita: A tranquil park in Limón Province, Costa Rica, perfect for wildlife spotting and serene nature walks.
Alfredo Gonzáles Flores Park
0.3 km
Discover tranquility in Cahuita's lush Alfredo Gonzáles Flores Park, a haven for nature lovers and peaceful relaxation.
Jungle Night Walk
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting nocturnal wildlife and lush landscapes of Cahuita, Costa Rica on an unforgettable Jungle Night Walk adventure.
Mirador Cahuita Boliv
0.6 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich biodiversity at Mirador Cahuita Boliv, a must-visit destination in Costa Rica's stunning Cahuita region.
Parador Turístico Cahuita
0.8 km
Discover Cahuita's charm: your starting point for exploring stunning nature, vibrant culture, and tranquil beaches on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast.
Round rock beach
0.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Round Rock Beach in Cahuita, Costa Rica, where adventure meets serenity in a tropical paradise.
C. Playa Negra
1.5 km
Experience the unique charm of Playa Negra, a stunning black sand beach in Cahuita, perfect for relaxation, snorkeling, and exploring lush wildlife.
Piscina natural pública
1.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Public Natural Pool in Cahuita, a serene paradise surrounded by lush nature and vibrant wildlife in Costa Rica.
Piscina de coral natural
2.0 km
Discover Cahuita's Piscina de Coral Natural: A serene, reef-sheltered pool in Cahuita National Park, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante National Park
0.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante National Park in Cahuita - where culinary excellence meets breathtaking nature.
Soda Kawe
0.1 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at Soda Kawe in Cahuita - your go-to spot for delicious local cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty.
DelRita Patty
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at DelRita Patty, Cahuita's favorite takeout restaurant offering delicious and affordable local cuisine.
Restaurante Roberto La Casa de la Langosta
0.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican seafood at Restaurante Roberto La Casa de la Langosta in beautiful Cahuita.
El Rincón del Amor
0.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at El Rincón del Amor in Cahuita – where every dish tells a story.
Ricky's Bar
0.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Ricky's Bar in Cahuita - where flavor meets fun in a vibrant atmosphere.
Aroma, Coffee Bar & Breakfast
0.2 km
Discover Aroma in Cahuita: where exceptional coffee meets delicious breakfast in a cozy atmosphere.
Hungry Lion's Jamaican Restaurant Costa Rica
0.2 km
Experience authentic Jamaican cuisine at Hungry Lion's Jamaican Restaurant in Cahuita – a hidden gem for food lovers exploring Costa Rica.
Coco's Bar
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Coco's Bar in Cahuita – where great food meets a lively atmosphere.
Restaurante Éwa & Lounge Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Éwa & Lounge Bar in Cahuita – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante El Palenque Luisa
0.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante El Palenque Luisa in Cahuita, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Calypso Cottage near Cahuita National Park Costa Rica
0.5 km
Experience tranquility at Calypso Cottage near Cahuita National Park—your gateway to Costa Rica's natural wonders and vibrant culture.
Restaurante Pizzeria Cahuita
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Restaurante Pizzeria Cahuita—where every bite transports you straight to Italy amid lush tropical surroundings.
ASANTE
0.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Asante in Cahuita - where culinary artistry meets Caribbean charm.
Sobre las Olas by Gondwana
1.0 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican flavors at Sobre las Olas by Gondwana on Playa Negra - where every meal is an oceanfront delight.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Coffee Whiskey Biscuit Eggs
0.0 km
Discover the sweet side of Cahuita at Coffee Whiskey Biscuit Eggs, where delightful desserts meet an inviting atmosphere in Costa Rica.
Gelato
0.0 km
Discover the flavors of artisanal gelato in Cahuita, Limón Province – a tropical paradise for ice cream lovers.
Le Mau Mau
0.1 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Le Mau Mau, a delightful bakery in Cahuita's National Park, where fresh pastries meet vibrant culture.
Super Vaz #2
0.1 km
Explore local flavors at Super Vaz #2, Cahuita's vibrant supermarket offering fresh produce and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
Paola Rodriguez Hernandez
0.1 km
Explore unique, locally crafted home goods at Paola Rodriguez Hernandez in Cahuita, a must-visit for every traveler in Costa Rica.
Joyería Artesanal Silmarilart
0.2 km
Explore the artistry of Joyería Artesanal Silmarilart in Cahuita, where every handcrafted piece of jewelry tells a unique story.
Plaza Zullymar
0.2 km
Discover Plaza Zullymar in Cahuita: Your gateway to local shopping, delicious dining, and vibrant cultural experiences in Costa Rica.
Talassophile
0.2 km
Discover the charm of Talassophile, a boutique in Cahuita offering unique local crafts and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
Samoa
0.3 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rica in Cahuita, where stunning beaches meet vibrant local culture and unique shopping opportunities await.
Centro Comercial
0.3 km
Explore Centro Comercial in Cahuita for a delightful shopping experience, local cuisine, and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
Mercado de la Fruta Prohibida
0.3 km
Explore the colorful Mercado de la Fruta Prohibida in Cahuita for an authentic taste of Costa Rican culture and fresh local produce.
Super Safari
0.3 km
Discover the essence of Cahuita at Super Safari, offering local goods, fresh produce, and unique Costa Rican snacks in a vibrant supermarket setting.
Info Boutique
0.3 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican souvenirs at Info Boutique in Cahuita, where culture meets creativity in every unique piece.
Mulata
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant essence of Costa Rican fashion at Mulata in Cahuita, your go-to destination for stylish clothing and unique souvenirs.
La maga pastelería Cahuita
0.3 km
Explore the enchanting flavors of La Maga Pastelería in Cahuita, where every cake and pastry tells a delicious story.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Irie Vibes Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively atmosphere at Irie Vibes Bar & Restaurant in Cahuita, Costa Rica.
El Chiri tapas & bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rican cuisine at El Chiri Tapas & Bar, a culinary hotspot in Cahuita, perfect for food lovers.
Restaurante y Bar La Peruanita
0.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante y Bar La Peruanita in Cahuita, a dining destination for food lovers.
Island Restaurant and Bar
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Island Restaurant and Bar in Cahuita, where every dish tells a story.
Splash bar y restaurante,comida tipica y pizza
0.3 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Splash Bar y Restaurante, where local cuisine meets a laid-back Caribbean vibe in Cahuita.
Cahuita's Taste Cider and Shine
0.4 km
Discover unique flavors at Cahuita's Taste Cider and Shine, the premier beer garden in Costa Rica's beautiful Cahuita.
July's Snacks
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant Caribbean culture at July's Snacks in Cahuita, where refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere await you.
Irie Zone
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Costa Rica at Irie Zone, a lively bar in Cahuita known for its tropical cocktails and lively atmosphere.
Playa Negra, Cahuita
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Playa Negra in Cahuita, where refreshing drinks and local culture come together in a stunning Caribbean setting.
Reggae Bar
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Reggae Bar in Cahuita, where live music, tropical drinks, and good vibes come together for an unforgettable night.
Brooks Coffee & Grill
1.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Costa Rica at Brooks Coffee & Grill in Cahuita, offering delicious grilled dishes and local coffee in a vibrant setting.
Azul Bar & Grill
11.3 km
Experience the tropical flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Azul Bar & Grill in Puerto Viejo, where every meal is a celebration of local culture and cuisine.
One Love
12.4 km
Experience the best grill dishes in Puerto Viejo at One Love, where every meal is a celebration of fresh flavors in a tropical paradise.
Playa Negra Brewing Beachfront Hotel
12.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation, local brews, and Caribbean charm at Playa Negra Brewing Beachfront Hotel in Puerto Viejo.
Sports bar Puerto Viejo
12.9 km
Enjoy a lively sports bar atmosphere in Puerto Viejo, where great food and thrilling games come together.
