Puntarenas: The Pacific Pearl of Costa Rica
Discover Puntarenas, Costa Rica: beaches, history, and island adventures await on the Pacific coast. Your gateway to paradise!
Puntarenas, a historic port city on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, offers a blend of beach relaxation, cultural experiences, and access to nearby islands and natural attractions. Stroll along the Paseo de los Turistas, sample local cuisine, and soak in the sunset views over the Gulf of Nicoya.
A brief summary to Puntarenas Costa Rica
- X5F8+WFP, P.º de los Turistas, Puntarenas, Puntarenas Province, CR
- +50577797620
Local tips
- Stroll along Paseo de los Turistas in the evening for beautiful sunset views over the Gulf of Nicoya.
- Try a 'Churchill', a local shaved ice dessert, from a vendor along the Paseo de los Turistas.
- Bargain for souvenirs at the craft stalls along the seafront promenade.
- Take a day trip to Tortuga Island for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on pristine beaches.
- Check ferry schedules in advance if you plan to visit destinations on the Nicoya Peninsula.
Getting There
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Walking
From the cruise ship terminal or the main bus station, the Paseo de los Turistas is a 15-20 minute walk. Head west along the main road, and then turn south towards the coast. The Paseo is easily identifiable by the concentration of shops, restaurants, and the sea wall. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
Local buses operate within Puntarenas, but the main attractions are easily walkable from the center. If arriving by bus from San José, a taxi to the end of Paseo de los Turistas will cost around ₡1500. (approx. $3 USD).
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Puntarenas. A short taxi ride from the bus station or ferry terminal to a location along the Paseo de los Turistas will typically cost between ₡2208 to ₡4067 (approximately $4 - $8 USD).
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Ferry
To reach destinations on the Nicoya Peninsula (Paquera, Naranjo, etc.), take the ferry from the terminal at the end of Paseo de los Turistas. Passenger tickets cost ₡810 (about $1.50 USD). Vehicle fares vary. Arrive at least 60 minutes before departure, especially during peak season.
Discover more about Puntarenas Costa Rica
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Puntarenas Costa Rica
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Discover Puntarenas, Costa Rica: beaches, history, and island adventures await on the Pacific coast. Your gateway to paradise!
Puntarenas en la playa
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Discover Puntarenas' coastal charm: History, ocean views, and vibrant culture await at this captivating historical landmark.
Puntarenas Se Oye
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Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Puntarenas at Puntarenas Se Oye, where local insights and rich media bring Costa Rican life to the forefront.
Monumento a Juan Rafael Mora y José María Cañas
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A historical landmark in Puntarenas honoring Costa Rican heroes Juan Rafael Mora and José María Cañas, symbolizing progress and national unity.
Puntarenas Excursions
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Explore the best of Puntarenas with Puntarenas Excursions, your go-to tourist information center for unforgettable experiences in Costa Rica's coastal paradise.
Nuestro lugar especial
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Experience the serene beauty of Puntarenas at this charming fishing pier, perfect for relaxation, fishing, and enjoying stunning coastal views.
Undersea Hunter
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Explore the breathtaking underwater ecosystems of Costa Rica with Undersea Hunter, your premier scuba diving experience in Puntarenas.
hotel luna
14.6 km
Experience a relaxing Costa Rican getaway at Hotel Luna in Mata de Limón, offering beach access and a tranquil atmosphere.
Tortuga Island Tour
23.4 km
Discover Tortuga Island: Costa Rica's idyllic paradise with white sands, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. Perfect for a day of sun and adventure.
Crocodile Bridge
31.6 km
Witness massive crocodiles in their natural habitat from the famous Crocodile Bridge on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. A free and unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Parque Nacional Carara
33.0 km
Explore Costa Rica's biodiversity hotspot: Carara National Park, a haven for scarlet macaws, crocodiles, and vibrant rainforest wildlife.
Ballena Bay
33.0 km
Discover Ballena Bay: Where humpback whales migrate, a whale-tail emerges at low tide, and Costa Rica's natural beauty captivates.
Rancho de Lelo Ecolodge & Sustainable Farm
33.9 km
Discover tranquility at Rancho de Lelo Ecolodge in Monteverde. Experience sustainable living amidst breathtaking mountain scenery and rural Costa Rican charm.
El Cafetal Coffee Tour
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Discover the secrets of sustainable coffee production at El Cafetal Coffee Tour, nestled in the heart of Monteverde's stunning landscapes.
Finca Ecológica San Luis
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Discover Monteverde's natural beauty at Finca Ecológica San Luis: birdwatching, hiking, camping, and sustainable living in a mountain paradise.
Unmissable attractions to see
Muellero Park
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Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Muellero Park in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, a perfect destination for relaxation and family fun.
Muelle Nacional
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Experience the vibrant culture and stunning ocean views at Muelle Nacional, a must-visit tourist attraction in Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
Catedral de Puntarenas. Sagrado Corazón de Jesús
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Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Catedral de Puntarenas, Sagrado Corazón de Jesús, a must-visit landmark in Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
Paseo de los Turistas
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Experience the vibrant coastal culture of Puntarenas at Paseo de los Turistas, a lively promenade with stunning ocean views and local flavors.
Muelle de Cruceros Cruise port
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Explore the vibrant Muelle de Cruceros in Puntarenas, Costa Rica—the perfect gateway to breathtaking natural wonders and rich local culture.
Casa Fait
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Explore Casa Fait, a cultural gem in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, where history and vibrant local life come together in a picturesque setting.
Parque Mora y Cañas
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Explore the lush landscapes of Parque Mora y Cañas in Puntarenas, a tranquil park perfect for relaxation, picnics, and wildlife observation.
Ocean Marina Costa Rica
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Muelle Bay Island Cruises
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Parque Marino del Pacifico
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Explore the enchanting underwater world at Parque Marino del Pacifico, a premier marine park and aquarium in Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
Tours Costa Rica Enjoys
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Muelle Turistico del instituto Costarricense de Turismo
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Explore Costa Rica's marine wonders at Muelle Turistico, the vibrant pier in Puntarenas offering adventure, culture, and stunning ocean views.
Bay Island Cruises
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Discover the beauty of Costa Rica's coastal islands with Bay Island Cruises, where adventure meets stunning natural landscapes.
Balneario Punta Pirata
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El Faro de Puntarenas
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Discover the stunning coastal charm of El Faro de Puntarenas, an iconic lighthouse offering breathtaking views and rich cultural experiences.
Essential places to dine
Restaurante Bum Bum
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Bar Restaurante La Perla del Pacífico
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Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Bar Restaurante La Perla del Pacífico in Puntarenas - where every dish tells a story.
Bay y Rest El Cevichito
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Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Bay y Rest El Cevichito in Puntarenas - a culinary treasure since 1936.
Restaurante Aldea Pura Vida
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Bamboo
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Rest. Y Heladería El Deleite
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Restaurante El Desorden
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Restaurante Joroncito
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Capitan Moreno
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Marisquería La Ostra
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ChiryTacos
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Kaite Negro
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Restaurante Cayuga
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Marisquería De Mis Suegris
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Discover culinary delights at Marisquería De Mis Suegris - where fresh seafood meets authentic Costa Rican flavors in Puntarenas.
Restaurante y Marisquería Las Delicias Del Puerto
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mabuhay Shop CR
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La Boutique
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Be boutique
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MegaSúper Puntarenas
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Discover local flavors and essentials at MegaSúper Puntarenas, your go-to supermarket for all things Costa Rican.
Tienda Y Zapateria Zona Libre
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Shop for quality outdoor clothing and footwear at Tienda Y Zapateria Zona Libre, the perfect stop for adventurous tourists in Puntarenas.
Dunia Estilos
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Discover the vibrant styles of Costa Rican fashion at Dunia Estilos, the premier clothing store in Puntarenas, offering unique apparel and local hospitality.
Lili Pink
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Palí
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Anma Boutique
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Tienda La Favorita Puntarenas
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Actualidad Sport
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PlayShop VideoJuegos
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Explore PlayShop VideoJuegos in Puntarenas for a thrilling array of video games, toys, and custom apparel in a vibrant gaming culture.
MEE
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Luna Boutique Puntarenas
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Tienda Lola
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Restaurante Copas Bar
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Copas Bar y Cevichera
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Cabana Bar
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Bar Restaurante Cabo Velas
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Restaurante El Ancla
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La barra hub
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Discover the vibrant culinary scene at La Barra Hub, Puntarenas' premier grill, offering delicious flavors and a lively atmosphere.
Bar y restaurante Chirripó
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Los Capitanes
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Puntarenas at Los Capitanes, where local culture meets stunning ocean views in a lively bar atmosphere.
Antiguo Rincón del Surf
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Bar Portón Verde
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Puntarenas at Bar Portón Verde, where local culture and refreshing drinks come together in a lively atmosphere.
Bar las vaca
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Experience the lively ambiance and local flavors at Bar Las Vaca in Puntarenas, a vibrant bar perfect for tourists seeking nightlife and camaraderie.
Quepos
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Experience the vibrant nightlife and beautiful landscapes of Quepos, Costa Rica's coastal gem known for its bars, restaurants, and adventure.
Buho' Bar
0.6 km
Discover the lively vibe of Buho' Bar in Puntarenas, where refreshing drinks and vibrant nightlife await every traveler.
Sport Bar Male
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Discover the lively ambiance of Sport Bar Male in Puntarenas, where vibrant sports entertainment meets refreshing drinks in a local setting.
Los Delfines
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Experience the lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Los Delfines, a vibrant bar in the heart of Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
