Drake Bay: Untamed Paradise on Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula
Discover Drake Bay: A remote Costa Rican paradise with stunning beaches, biodiverse rainforests, and access to world-class national parks.
Drake Bay (Bahía Drake) is a secluded bay on the northern side of the Osa Peninsula in southwestern Costa Rica, known for its rich biodiversity and access to Corcovado National Park and Caño Island Biological Reserve. Named after Sir Francis Drake, who may have used the bay as a base in the 16th century, it offers a remote and pristine escape for nature enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Drake Bay
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Local tips
- Bring cash, as there are no banks or ATMs in Drake Bay.
- Pack insect repellent, especially during the rainy season.
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (December to April).
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking and exploring the rainforest.
- Be prepared for limited facilities and services due to the remote location.
Getting There
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Boat
The most common way to reach Drake Bay is by boat from Sierpe. Sierpe is accessible by bus from Palmar Norte or by car. **From Sierpe:** 1. Head to the boat launch near the Donde Jorge Restaurant. 2. Purchase a ticket for the public boat to Drake Bay. The boat ride takes approximately 1.5 hours. Public boats typically depart at 11:30 AM and 3:30 PM. 3. The boat will drop you off at the main beach in Agujitas de Drake Bay. **Costs:** * Boat from Sierpe to Drake Bay: Approximately $20 USD per person each way, payable in cash to the boat captain. * Parking in Sierpe (if driving): Approximately 3,000-4,000 CRC (approx. $6-8 USD) per day.
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Driving
Driving to Drake Bay is possible, especially with a 4x4 vehicle, but it's not recommended during the rainy season. 1. From Sierpe, take Route 2, then Route 245, and follow the road via Rincon through Rancho Quemado to Agujitas de Drake Bay. 2. Be prepared for unpaved roads and possible river crossings. Check road conditions before you go. 3. Visitors to Drake Bay typically rely on accommodations to leave their vehicles. However, if your accommodation is not within walking distance from the main beach, there is a designated parking area provided by the locals doña Emilce and don Omar right on the main beach for a cheap price. **Costs:** * Parking in Drake Bay: Small fee.
Discover more about Drake Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hotel Pirate Cove
1.8 km
Discover a secluded beachfront paradise in Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula with rainforest adventures, world-class diving, and exceptional wildlife encounters.
The Tranquilo Lodge, Boutique Eco resort, Adult Only, all meals included
1.8 km
Escape to The Tranquilo Lodge in Drake Bay: an exclusive adult-only eco-retreat with stunning views, all-inclusive meals, and immersive nature experiences.
Lookout Restaurant
2.1 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican flavors with breathtaking ocean views at Lookout Restaurant in Bahía Drake. A culinary experience you won't forget!
Cabinas El Mirador Lodge
2.1 km
Experience rustic charm and breathtaking views at this family-run lodge in Drake Bay, Costa Rica. Your gateway to Corcovado and Caño Island.
Drake Bay Wilderness Resort
2.3 km
Discover Costa Rica's untamed beauty at Drake Bay Wilderness Resort, offering eco-friendly lodging and unforgettable adventures in a natural paradise.
Rancho Corcovado Lodge
2.3 km
Discover eco-friendly comfort and adventure in Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula at Rancho Corcovado Lodge, near Drake Bay.
Drake Bay Sunset Lodge
2.3 km
Experience tranquility at Drake Bay Sunset Lodge, a serene family-owned retreat nestled in Costa Rica's breathtaking Agujitas region, offering ocean views and lush nature.
Aguila de Osa Rainforest & Marine Adventure Lodge
2.4 km
Discover Costa Rica's wild Osa Peninsula at Aguila de Osa: rainforest adventures, marine life, and eco-friendly luxury await.
Martina´s Place, Bahia Drake
2.4 km
Experience the beauty of Bahia Drake from Martina's Place, offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to nature's wonders.
Pacheco Tours & Cabins
2.5 km
Explore the Osa Peninsula from Pacheco Tours & Cabins: Beachfront bliss and adventure in Drake Bay, Costa Rica.
La Paloma Lodge
2.5 km
Experience eco-luxury at La Paloma Lodge in Drake Bay: Cliffside views, rainforest adventures, and a commitment to sustainability.
Casita Corcovado
2.5 km
Experience the tranquility of Drake Bay at Casita Corcovado, your gateway to Costa Rica's natural wonders and thrilling adventures.
Vista Drake Lodge
2.5 km
Experience tranquility and adventure at Vista Drake Lodge in Drake Bay, Costa Rica. Your gateway to nature's wonders.
Corcovado & Drake Inn
2.5 km
Discover Drake Bay's natural beauty from Corcovado & Drake Inn, your comfortable base for adventure and relaxation on the Osa Peninsula.
Top Trails Corcovado
2.5 km
Explore Corcovado National Park with expert guides. Discover Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula, its wildlife, and pristine rainforests for an unforgettable adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Corcovado Expeditions
2.5 km
Experience the remarkable biodiversity of Corcovado Expeditions in Costa Rica, where adventure meets conservation in a stunning tropical paradise.
Osa Outdoors Adventures
5.4 km
Discover thrilling outdoor adventures in Drake Bay, Costa Rica, with Osa Outdoors Adventures – your gateway to nature's wonders.
Punta Rio Claro National Wildlife Refuge
5.5 km
Explore Punta Rio Claro National Wildlife Refuge, a breathtaking sanctuary of biodiversity and natural beauty in the heart of Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula.
Estación Los Planes, Parque Nacional Corcovado
7.1 km
Explore the breathtaking biodiversity and pristine wilderness of Estación Los Planes in Parque Nacional Corcovado, Costa Rica's natural treasure.
Campanario Biological Station
10.4 km
Explore the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of Campanario Biological Station in Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula, a paradise for eco-tourists and nature enthusiasts.
Sierpe River
19.1 km
Explore the enchanting Sierpe River in Puntarenas Province, a serene oasis teeming with wildlife and stunning natural beauty.
Reserva Forestal Golfo Dulce
20.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Reserva Forestal Golfo Dulce, a nature preserve in Costa Rica rich in biodiversity and adventure.
Parque Nacional Corcovado
21.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parque Nacional Corcovado, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Caño Island Biological Reserves
23.9 km
Explore the pristine beauty of Caño Island Biological Reserve, a paradise for snorkeling, hiking, and experiencing Costa Rica's rich biodiversity.
Sirena Ranger Station
26.9 km
Explore Costa Rica's wildest rainforest: Unparalleled wildlife viewing at Corcovado National Park's Sirena Ranger Station.
Magical Mogos Waterfalls
33.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Mogos Waterfalls in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, a hidden gem for hiking and natural beauty enthusiasts.
Parque de Las Esferas
34.5 km
Explore the ancient stone spheres at Parque de Las Esferas, a unique museum showcasing Costa Rica's rich cultural heritage and history.
Osa Canyoning Adventures
34.5 km
Experience the thrill of canyoning in Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula: rappel down waterfalls and explore the rainforest!
Corcovado National Park - El Tigre Trail
34.7 km
Explore the breathtaking biodiversity of Corcovado National Park's El Tigre Trail, a Costa Rican gem for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Sitio Arqueológico Batambal
35.1 km
Discover the rich history and stunning nature at Sitio Arqueológico Batambal, an archaeological gem in Costa Rica offering a glimpse into the pre-Columbian era.
Essential places to dine
Casa El Tortugo Drakes Kitchen
2.2 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Casa El Tortugo Drakes Kitchen in Osa Peninsula - where every meal tells a story.
Restaurante Mar y Bosque
2.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst breathtaking scenery at Restaurante Mar y Bosque in Rancho Quemado.
Delicias Bahía Drake
2.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Delicias Bahía Drake with breathtaking ocean views and fresh local ingredients.
Nature Cafe
2.5 km
Discover culinary delights and local art at Nature Cafe in Drake Bay - where flavor meets tranquility amidst stunning natural beauty.
CLAUDIO'S GRILL
2.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Claudio's Grill in Osa - where fresh ingredients meet unforgettable dining experiences.
Kalaluna Bistro
2.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Kalaluna Bistro with stunning ocean views in Puntarenas Province.
Coco Café
2.5 km
Experience delightful Costa Rican flavors at Coco Café in Drake Bay – your go-to destination for fresh local cuisine.
Restaurante Bucanero
2.6 km
Experience exquisite seafood and breathtaking views at Restaurante Bucanero in beautiful Drake Bay, Costa Rica.
Bar Restaurante Y Pizzería el Chefcito
2.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine and delicious pizzas at Bar Restaurante Y Pizzería el Chefcito in beautiful Osa.
Marea Alta
2.6 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Marea Alta on the beautiful Peninsula de Osa.
DinerCraft Bar & Restaurant
2.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at DinerCraft Bar & Restaurant in beautiful Drake Bay.
Sunset Paradise Restaurant
7.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Sunset Paradise Restaurant, where every meal is paired with breathtaking ocean views.
Hotel Restaurante Bella Vista Corcovado
8.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Hotel Restaurante Bella Vista Corcovado – your gateway to nature's paradise.
The Jaguar's Jungle Restaurant
11.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of local flavors and natural beauty at The Jaguar's Jungle Restaurant in Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula.
Ventana al Golfo
19.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Ventana al Golfo while enjoying stunning views of the Gulf in Rincon.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Caño Divers
1.8 km
Explore the vibrant marine life and stunning underwater landscapes at Caño Divers in the breathtaking Peninsula de Osa, Costa Rica.
Etnias, Bahia Drake
2.5 km
Explore the heart of Bahia Drake at Etnias, your essential tourist information center and unique gift shop in the Osa Peninsula.
Osa Great Adventure
2.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula with Osa Great Adventure, your premier tour operator for unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Creaciones RyB
3.4 km
Experience the vibrant essence of local artistry at Creaciones RyB in Bahía Drake, your go-to art supply store in Costa Rica.
Pulpería Jimenez
17.5 km
Discover the heart of Costa Rica at Pulpería Jimenez, a home goods store showcasing local culture and craftsmanship in Osa, Puntarenas.
Artesanía Catarata - Ngäbe Arts, Crafts, and Waterfall Visit
21.1 km
Explore the vibrant Ngäbe culture through exquisite crafts and natural beauty at Artesanía Catarata in Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
KU - Artesanía Ngäbe
21.3 km
Experience the vibrant artistry of the Ngäbe culture at KU - Artesanía Ngäbe, a unique gift shop in Rancho Quemado, Puntarenas Province.
PROYECTO NÜRÜN JUTÄI CRAFTS SE VENDE ARTESANÍ
21.4 km
Discover the vibrant artistry of Costa Rica at Proyecto Nürün Jutäi Crafts, a haven for unique handcrafted souvenirs from local artisans.
Minisuper Puerto Escondido
21.8 km
Experience local convenience at Minisuper Puerto Escondido, your go-to grocery for fresh produce and Costa Rican snacks.
OSACOOP R.L.
22.5 km
Explore OSACOOP R.L. in Puerto Jiménez: A unique non-profit store supporting local communities through eco-friendly products and artisanal crafts.
Wen's shein
22.9 km
Discover the vibrant beachwear at Wen's Shein in Puerto Jiménez – your go-to destination for stylish coastal fashion.
Morpho Boutique
23.0 km
Explore Morpho Boutique in Puerto Jiménez for unique Costa Rican crafts, eco-friendly products, and a taste of local culture.
Super mercado la violeta #2
23.1 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at Super Mercado La Violeta #2, your one-stop shop in beautiful Drake Bay, Costa Rica.
Centro Comercial MEKESA
23.1 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rica at Centro Comercial MEKESA, your go-to general store in Puerto Jiménez for local goods and vibrant atmosphere.
Coco Oil Shop
23.2 km
Discover the essence of Costa Rica at Coco Oil Shop, where natural goodness meets local flavor in La Palma.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ficus Bar
2.6 km
Experience the lively ambiance and local flavors at Ficus Bar in Rancho Quemado, your perfect retreat in Costa Rica's Puntarenas Province.
Bar La Jungla
2.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Bar La Jungla in Rancho Quemado, a must-visit bar for tourists in Costa Rica.
TWINS BAR Y RESTAURANT
2.7 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Twins Bar y Restaurant in Bahía Drake, where local cuisine meets stunning views.
Sukia Lounge Bar & Cafe
3.1 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Sukia Lounge Bar & Cafe in Agujitas, where delicious cuisine meets a stunning tropical backdrop.
Naciente #1
5.4 km
Discover Naciente #1, a vibrant bar in Osa, Puntarenas, where locals and tourists come together to enjoy cocktails and the lively Costa Rican atmosphere.
Amayas de Osa
8.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and serene ambiance of Amayas de Osa, a tropical bar and restaurant nestled in the heart of Costa Rica's natural beauty.
Bar Rincon El Puente
20.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and authentic flavors at Bar Rincon El Puente, a must-visit bar in the heart of Osa, Costa Rica.
Bar y Restaurante Chicharronera El Cedro
20.8 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Bar y Restaurante Chicharronera El Cedro, a lively bar and restaurant in Puerto Jiménez.
Bar El Ranchito Bahia Chal Osa
22.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bar El Ranchito Bahia Chal Osa, your ideal spot for tropical cocktails and local charm in Puntarenas, Costa Rica.
Bar los amigos
23.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Palma at Bar Los Amigos, where tropical cocktails and lively music create unforgettable memories.
Osa Palmas Bar & Restaurante
24.4 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Osa Palmas Bar & Restaurante, where culinary excellence meets the beauty of Puntarenas Province.
Rancho Pika Pika
26.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Rancho Pika Pika, a tropical bar in Playa Blanca, offering refreshing drinks and stunning coastal views.
Playa Blanca Beach Bar
26.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and flavor at Playa Blanca Beach Bar, a coastal oasis in the heart of Costa Rica.
Mirador Osa
32.6 km
Experience the beauty of Costa Rica at Mirador Osa, where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking views in the heart of the Osa Peninsula.
Bar y restaurante los malinches
35.8 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Bar y Restaurante Los Malinches, where local cuisine meets vibrant atmosphere in Osa.