The Costa Rican Caribbean coast is 212 kilometers ( 130 miles ) in extent, and is almost a straight line for its whole length. From the port of Limon to the Nicaraguan border at the San Juan river, there are no beaches that can be recommended as safe, due to the strong currents and tides of the Caribbean sea in this area. There is no hotel accomodations, with the exception of Tortuguero and Barra del Colorado. These places have other wonderful attractions.

However, south of Limon, from Cahuita to Manzanillo, there are beautiful white and volcanic sand beaches, many protected by coral reefs that make up the Caribbean distinction of Costa Rica. There are small hotels and lodges set in this magic Caribbean atmosphere, which has a very different flavor from the one on the Pacific coast, due to this Afrocaribbean influence. There are secluded beaches with blue seas and coconut trees, and rich tropical forest. The Caribbean cuisine is delicious, offering fish, shrimp, lobster and other dishes.

This tourist area is not as developed as similar beach destinations in other countries, with big hotels, amusement places and lack of vegetation. The Costa Rican Caribbean is fascinating, offering natural wonders and unique culture. The beaches are beautiful and quietly exotic. The towns of Cahuita and Puerto Viejo have many small and excellent restaurants. Bars offer reggae and calypso music where one can dance.

This beach destination is popular for young people because of its bohemian atmosphere. We recommend visiting the Cahuita National Park to enjoy the beach, the forest, snorkeling; the Manzanillo Gandoca Reserve or the Chiquita, Cocles and Punta Uva beaches. In the area you find the hotels Punta Cocles and Shawandha, which are good choices for the tourist interested in relaxing at the Caribbean beaches, but in a sophisticated atmosphere.

This is the main port of the country, even though the Caribbean was one of the last areas to be developed. The history of the Caribbean is fascinating. It involves the construction of the railway from San Jose to Limon and the beginning of the Multinational United Fruit Company, and its promotion of the fine bananas grown in the area. The Afro-Caribbean people of the area came as slaves with the Spaniards and later many of them came to help build the railway from Limon to San Jose. The Port of Limon was established in 1867, where the German Port is located, in front of the Uvita island. At Moin Port, ships are mainly involved with banana export, oil, fertilizers and Cruise Ships. The population of Limon is of 70,000 inhabitants. Although Limon is not well known, it has it's charm and is always brimming with life. A visit to this city is worth while if you are nearby, and should include the Parque Vargas where you can admire a statue of Cristopher Columbus and his son, in the place where, in 1502, he set foot for the first time on Costa Rican territory.

In this park you can admire a mural with the history of the Caribbean. Near the statue and by the ocean there is a look out point from where you can see the Uvita Island ( the only island on our Caribbean coast ). The island was inhabitated by our pre-colombian ancestors. Another place of interest is the central market and it's surrounding. The heart of the city of Limon is in this area and there is always action, which is something interesting to observe. Most of the people of Limon are Afro-Caribbean people, and are recognized for their joy and relaxed way of life.

Although we recommend a visit to Limon, mainly because of being an interesting cultural highlight.