Coco has grown over the years and is a very popular home to expatsthe bulk is from Canada and the U.S. Not all live here year-round, but many do. There are 2 ways to travel the 35 km distance from Liberia to Playas del Coco: via a 1-hour bus or a 1-hour private transfer. It is about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) each way, going through the tropical dry forest and ending at a gorgeous waterfall! Arenal and Monteverde are two very popular and beautiful destinations in Costa Rica. Monteverde 1 day tours normally include breakfast, a walk through the cloud forest, coffee tour and lunch. The only true beach bar in Cocoa Beach, Coconuts on the Beach is a local favorite that promises live music, specialty cocktails, service to the beach and great food, like the oh-so-yummy bacon-wrapped shrimp and scallops. Indranil merrily stood still in the water as the fish fed on the skin on his feet. Coco Beach, Costa Rica: What to Know Before You Go - Bookaway Whether you're looking to brighten your complexion or reduce the signs of aging, the spa's estheticians will tailor the treatment to your specific needs. The park features gorgeous landscapes and a wide variety of exotic flora and fauna that you won't find anywhere else in the world. On a budget? There are 2 ways to travel the 35 km distance from Liberia to Playas del Coco: via a 1-hour bus or a 1-hour private transfer. Here you will find expats from around the world as well as plenty of locals giving this former fishing village a vibrant international atmosphere. This forest is home to thousands of birds and other wildlife. Eco-Friendly Community: At Playa Cocles, you will find a community of surfers that are passionate about protecting the environment. Try Sport Fishing. Now, there are over nine supermarkets in Coco and six or more banks. But in that case, it would be a 20-30 minutes walk. Besides a clean, wide beach, thick with golden-hued sand, the park boasts free parking. It is a short 3 minutes walk ending at a beautiful beach with calm waters. White Water Rafting. Playas Del Coco, Costa Rica: Best Beach Town in Papagayo - MytanFeet Playas del Coco, Costa Rica - Best Things To Do and Cost of Living Riding on the beach with the waves crashing beneath you and the ocean breeze blowing past you creates an unforgettable way to soak in the natural beauty of Costa Rica. For anyone who loves hiking, the Talamanca Mountains and its surrounding areas are a hiker's paradise. To access the reef, visitors must first hike through Cahuita's rainforest, which is home to sloths, monkeys, toucans, and parrots, among other exotic animals. Riding on the beach with the waves crashing beneath you and the ocean breeze blowing past you creates an unforgettable way to soak in the natural beauty of Costa Rica. Since Coco has long been a fishing village, to this day the catches here are among the best. One of the top activities in Coco is an afternoon cruise on a sailboat or catamaran. Coco Beach, Costa Rica is a popular destination for tourists due to its stunning golden sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to the lush rainforests that litter the surrounding areas. Arenal 1 day tours normally include breakfast, a short hike to see the volcano, lunch and hot springs. Main street was the only road paved. Upon arrival, you may be greeted with a traditional dance along with a chance to engage with the community members. Simply enter your email address below and well send you a FREE REPORT Costa Rica: The Land of Pura Vida. They're knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna, and are happy to answer any questions you may have. Yet still, many expats are calling the Las Palmas neighborhood their home year-round. Visiting the indigenous communities that call the surrounding rainforest home presents an incredible opportunity to learn about the area's history, culture, and customs. These communities offer the typical comforts of home they have grown accustomed to and their residents enjoy the conveniences that tend to surround these types of communities, such as shopping at stores with familiar foods and brands, and close access to gyms, medical and dental clinics, cafes, and restaurants with various types of international cuisine. They offer stand-up paddle board and kayak rentals as well as kitesurfing and surfing lessons. You can take a boat just 20 minutes in-shore to the Papagayo Bay which is one of the most popular and affordable ways to fish here. Slow to jump on the craft beer bandwagon in Costa Rica, expats and locals have finally begun crafting local brews and have gained some market share over the last decade. 326. Nicaragua is the closest land border. Whether you're looking for a facial, massage, or body treatment, the expert staff at Om Spa will help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated. The best way to explore the area is by foot, with a hike that will take you through rainforests, jagged peaks, and rolling hills. But, what if you like to have access to the amenities but want to visit secluded beaches too? It's a short walk through the jungle to reach the beach, and once you get there, you'll be greeted by a long stretch of pristine sand and turquoise waters. You'll also get to taste different types of coffee and buy some to take home. The view is breathtaking, with a 360-degree view from the summit that stretches as far as the Caribbean and the Pacific coasts. Take your pick from extreme or not-so-extreme adventures at Cocoa Beach. Sport fishing at El Coco in Guanacaste inshore half-day tour in the Pacific side. But the view isnt all Coconuts offers. Now if youre an intermediate to advanced surfer, you will definitely want to take a trip to Witchs Rock. You can spend the day soaking up the sun, swimming, and snorkeling in the calm waters. These magnificent creatures nest on the beaches between July and October every year. We are Pubali and Indranil, an Indian couple living in Costa Rica and slow traveling Latin America and Caribbean. As one of the oldest beach towns in the province of Guanacaste, Playas del Coco has garnered a well-established community of expats over the years. The best time to experience horseback riding on the Coco Beach is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun is not too hot. Typically, rentals cost around $20-30 per hour. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. While exploring the center, visitors can observe staff caring for animals in need, witness feeding and enrichment sessions, and even participate in educational tours. Covering a large area that begins along the main road in Coco with the Pacifico Village Shops on one side and on the other, AutomercadoCocos largest and most expat-friendly grocery store. Whether you're watching toucans soar overhead, spotting monkeys in the trees or witnessing the awe-inspiring spectacle of sea turtles nesting on the beaches, you'll have an unforgettable experience in this natural paradise. A tour is the most convenient way as you dont need to plan anything or worry about driving. One of the best places to experience the wildlife in all its glory is the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. Similar to Calzn de Pobre beach, Playa Penca also seems to be a beach that should have been kept a secret but in reality is known to a lot of people. You can use this coffee to make traditional desserts like Tres Leches or coffee flan. There are a few different places you can beach hop from Coco. If you need recommendations for tour companies, please contact us. Costa Rica is famous for its tropical fruits, like papaya, pineapple, mango, and guava. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to zip line from one platform to the next, providing stunning aerial views of the surrounding landscape. Buses depart from Pulmitan Bus Station in Liberia city centre. Learn more about Costa Rica and other countries in our daily postcard e-letter. Privacy Notice: We use cookies on our website to enhance your experience. If you do get a car, be careful coming through town. He owns his own boating company and can take you on boating, surfing, fishing, snorkeling and beach hopping to the best spots that other sailing companies dont go. Playas del Coco has a main street where many shops and restaurants are located. The store, which is one of the top Cocoa Beach attractions, is open 24 hours a day, it offers everything you could possibly need for the beach lifestyle, including bikinis, surf boards, clothing and sports gear. This is a perfect spot for nature lovers who want to get up close and personal with the wildlife that calls Costa Rica home. LIKELY TO SELL OUT*. If you are limited on time and want to spend a day immersing yourself with Costa Rica 101, you will find Diamante just 25 minutes southwest from Coco. Once you have your board, it's time to hit the water! These are also great day trips from the Hotel Riu Guanacaste which is about 30 minutes from Coco. This iconicRon Jon Surf Shopis the world's largest surf shop, encompassing 52,000 square feet. The spa also offers a range of body treatments, including exfoliation, wraps, and scrubs. It winds into a maritime hammock lush with live oak, palmetto and greenery, and youll feel like civilization is a world away. Amenities like these mean HOA fees are on the higher side. The Mercado Municipal in Coco Beach is a great place to start. Many hotels and resorts in Coco Beach offer cooking classes for guests. Some classes even include a rum or coffee tasting, since these are two of Costa Rica's most famous exports. If you have your own car, you can arrange to meet the tour company at the park. Costa Rica is one of the most beautiful countries in Central America, with an abundance of natural beauty and stunning beaches. The Nicaragua one day tour goes to Managua, Masaya, Granada, Lake Apoyo, Lake Nicaragua and hit all the major spots. If you're looking for a facial, Om Spa has several options to choose from. Playas del Coco on the northwest coast is one of the most popular beach destinations in Costa Rica. While temperatures tend to hover consistently around 33 (low 90s), the area is very dry and arid during these months. But if you park before on the roadside, the walk takes a little longer. As you drive, on the left, you will see views of Coco Bay and on the right, Hermosa Bay, until you reach a parking lot. Many classes and community groups are here also. In conclusion, a day trip to Bocas del Toro from Coco Beach is an exciting and unforgettable adventure. Ziplining on the only dual ocean-view zipline nearly a mile long, beach activities and snorkeling, and an immersive cultural experience where you learn how rural farmers producedsugar cane, coffee, and chocolate. Cocoa Beachis renowned for its calm, consistent waves. Visitors can take a wildlife tour or visit nearby national parks and nature reserves to see these animals in their natural habitat. If youre looking for adventure and excitement, you have to do a combo adventure tour. Most of the floor space is devoted to educational displays and interactive fossil 'hunts'. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Playas del Coco - Tripadvisor You can choose how much to spend based on where you live and the type of food you purchase, so the below examples can vary. 1. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Cocoa Beach - Tripadvisor That waterfall hike is one of our favorites in Costa Rica. When it comes to experiencing the picturesque views of Costa Rica's Coco Beach, horseback riding is a must-try activity. Several restaurants are serving up Italian, Mexican, and Costa Rican fare, as well as one of the best seafood restaurants in town. Prices are minimal. However, since the buses are already full of passengers from Liberia city centre, theres a great chance youll have to stand for the most part of the journey. Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour. Its very close to Rincon de la Vieja National Park but is a more local, not as well known park. From the parking lot, you need to walk for another 10-15 minutes on a downhill road to get to the Calzn de Pobre beach. Las Palmas is a popular neighborhood amongst expats in Coco. The slow pace of living, bustling with traditional knowledge and culture, evokes a sense of peace that may be missing from your everyday life. The relaxation area features comfortable seating, calming music, and a calming atmosphere to help you fully relax and feel at peace. The Cocoa Beach boardwalkstretches 800 feet over the Atlantic Ocean. You can visit their tasting room in Coco from 1 p.m.-2 a.m. Highly recommended if you have a rental car and want to experience more of Guanacaste! There are plenty of water activities for all ages. Once you reach the bottom you will witness a spectacular 40 foot high, 49 foot wide waterfall. We even have a Price Smart within 20 minutes. There are several options to choose from when it comes to kayak tours in this area. Plan your visit: We like to go to this waterfall in the morning, spend a few hours, have lunch in Liberia and then go to Diamante Eco Adventure Park for ziplining in the afternoon. There are separate spaces for discotheque and karaoke, coupled with delicious food and cocktails. East Coast Surfing Hall of Fame - Check if there are any special displays or guided tours on at this respected museum. Things to do in Playa del Coco, CR | Drink Tea & Travel 1 hour drive away: Playa Conchal, Playa Brasilito, Playa Grande, Playa Flamingo, Playa Avellanas. One of the most popular attractions at the Jaguar Rescue Center is the chance to meet a sloth. So, pro tip, visit Playa Bonita now! There are also real estate offices, a gym, a medical clinic, and a dental clinic. It's an exhilarating day out in the rainforest and you'll get to experience one of the best outdoor adventures in Costa Rica! By BillMeeker. Coco Beach has many stables and tour operators offering horseback riding experiences, catering to both experienced riders and beginners. The best time to see turtles is during green season on an arribada, the period of time where majority of mothers come to shore. Overall, kayaking on the Gandoca Lagoon is an amazing experience that's well worth the trip to Coco Beach in Costa Rica. These beaches are just a 5-15 minute drive away. When divers from around the world talk about diving in Costa Rica, one of the tops spots on the list is unquestionably the Catalina Islands. At Arenal, you will experience the rainforest and volcano. Plan to pack a picnic and spend the afternoon. There are several parks about an hour and drive from Playas del Coco Coco that you can choose from. There is also Rio Perdido that offer similar activities. Keep your valuables close and within your eyesight at all times. For the quintessential Florida beach experience, escape to Cocoa Beach. Buses from Liberia to Playas del Coco are available every hour from 06:00 to 20:00. You can go from island to forest or beach to volcano in a matter of hours! Visitors can watch as these playful primates swing and climb overhead, displaying their natural agility and grace. Youll find one of the areas loveliest escapes atLori Wilson Park. Close by are the towns of Tamarindo (where you go to surf), Playas Flamingo, Hermosa, and many other great beach towns. Only a 2 hour drive one way from Coco. It's one of the few places on earth that still hasnt been discovered by many tourists. If youre interested in taking a surf class, head to Tamarindo, the best beach for beginners and first timers. The road is unpaved, rough in stretches and has uphill and downhill. Located just a short drive from Coco Beach, the Jaguar Rescue Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating injured and orphaned animals, including jaguars, monkeys, sloths, and birds. That, combined with the fact the water is shallow enough to simply wade out past the breakers, makes it an ideal place tolearn to surf. Check out our Costa Rica itinerary corner for itineraries of various lengths covering different destinations. The ride usually starts with a pre-ride briefing, where riders are introduced to the horses and given a lesson on how to control and guide them. Best to make reservations in advance as these are very popular with tourists. Playas del Coco, Costa Rica 2023: Best Places to Visit - Tripadvisor Liberia is about a 45-minute drive. Overall, stand-up paddling on the Caribbean Sea in Coco Beach is a fun and unique way to experience Costa Rica's stunning natural beauty. Cocoa Beach Skate Park - Find time to play and add some excitement to your stay here. Russian. The Las Pailas sector (1 hour and 20 minute drive) has several trails of various levels, perfect for a nice day of hiking to see beautiful scenery. You'll find fresh seafood, fruits and vegetables, meat, and spices. You will never need a jacket here! No votes so far! We are sorry. A visit to these communities ensures you support the broader cultural conservation movements that are trying to protect these communities from threats to their traditional ways of life. Or use mashed ripe plantains to make tortillas for a twist on traditional corn tortillas. Diamante Eco Adventure Park (get 10% off in the link) is only a 30 minute drive from Playas del Coco and it has one of the best canopy tours in Costa Rica, including a 1+ kilometer superman zipline with an ocean view! Real estate is booming in Coco. Besides giving you a swell view of the beach, its brimming with shops, restaurants and boutiques. If you had parked the vehicle prior to the designated parking spot of Playa Calzn de Pobre, you may walk all the way to Playa Penca. Additionally, the water is typically calm, providing a peaceful and serene environment for exploration. The massage therapists are trained in a range of techniques, including Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and aromatherapy massages. For animal lovers, a visit to the Jaguar Rescue Center is an absolute must. Youll see manatee, dolphin, and many species of birds while paddling through tropical mangroves. About a 1.5 hour drive from Playas del Coco is the Tenorio River where you can go white water rafting through Class 2, 3 and 4 rapids. This is the Google Maps location of Playa Penca. Your email address will not be published. We have got you covered! Guachipelin combo tour consists of a canopy tour, white water tubing, horseback riding, waterfalls, and a separate hot spring and mud baths. You should have plenty of fresh breeze throughout the journey, but it will be really hot while waiting for the bus to leave. This one is our second favorite from all the beaches near Playas del Coco. The Caribbean Sea in Coco Beach is calm and warm, making it an ideal spot for beginners. Another highlight of the center is the Monkey Bridge, a structure built in the trees to allow monkeys to safely move throughout the area. One of the most magical places in Costa Rica is right at the Guanacaste/Alajuela border, Rio Celeste. $260.82. 7. One of the greatest things about visiting Playas del Coco is that youre close to many attractions. Speciality Museums. People with low ground clearance vehicles usually park here on the roadside. September and October are the wettest months, and you can experience monsoon rains in these months. 5 Beautiful Beaches near Playas del Coco - Paradise Catchers You can walk downtown from here in about 15 minutes or drive your golf cart, as many in this neighborhood like to do. There are also several small islands and coves to explore, allowing for a peaceful and scenic experience. As for buyers, this hot property is going fast and prices are rising quickly. Free Things to Do in Cocoa Beach. Another must-visit destination in Bocas del Toro is the Starfish Beach. Coco Beach in Costa Rica is known for its stunning natural beauty and wildlife. It's one of the best places to surf in the state, making it one of the top things to do in Cocoa Beach. Many tour boats stop by this beach. Transport Mode. Are you interested in retiring abroad? With calm, crystal clear waters, the beach serves as the perfect destination for swimming and snorkeling. If you're lucky, you may even spot the region's most famous residents the sea turtles. Its about an hour and a half drive from Playas del Coco. Here are some of my favorite things to do in the area: Since Bahia Coco (Coco Bay) features calm waters, it is perfect for families with children of all ages. It comprises two areas Gandoca and Manzanillo. 6. If youre looking for some things to do from Coco, here are our favorite day trips from Playas del Coco. The town is known for its lively nightlife, with many bars and restaurants serving delicious local cuisine and drinks. Costa Rica boasts an impressive array of flora and fauna, much of which can be found along its stunning coastline. VISIT FLORIDA is a service mark of the Florida Tourism Industry Marketing Corporation, d/b/a VISIT FLORIDA, registered in the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. You can read more about it in this post. A number of small tour companies in town, and around the beach, offer activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, or SUP paddle boarding rentalsall excellent ways to enjoy the smaller waves and to keep fit. Your browser is not supported for this experience.We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. Medical in Coco: If you are not a resident, you will not qualify for the CCSS or CAJA (for a small monthly fee you can receive free medical care), but there are good options such as BlueCross BlueShield Costa Rica. So if you're planning a trip to Coco Beach, be sure to add this activity to your itinerary you won't regret it! Of course, there are many in the area, could be from the beach or could be from a sunset view lounge bar. You can also book with a certified tour company who can make the reservations for you and provide the guide. I actually recommend spending a couple nights in both areas if possible but if not, a day trip gives you a wonderful taste of the many different natural landmarks, ecosystems and micro-climates that exist in Costa Rica. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. The larger grocery stores are closer to downtown but those without a car get by with the red taxis that tend to sit outside the large stores during the day. But it's not just the zip lining that makes the experience so special. But if you are looking for some independent snorkeling without a tour, remember to bring your gear when you visit Ocotal beach. So, pack your surfboard and visit Playa Cocles for a surfing adventure of a lifetime. Its one of the most trusted operators in Costa Rica. Playa Ocotal and Hermosa, just around the corner, all have expat housing/communities. When you finish the zipline, you end up in the animal sanctuary where you can see jaguars, sloths, toucans and many more animals. Their traditional way of life includes hunting, fishing, and farming, providing a unique insight into a centuries-old way of living. The tour leaders usually provide safety instruction and helmets before starting the ride. This one is our favorite! Exploring the beautiful beaches is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica. Adventure Tours. So, the next time you're in Coco Beach, be sure to make a stop at Gandoca-Manzanillo, and get ready to be amazed by the wildlife diversity that Costa Rica has to offer. Many condos are found in the Las Palmas area, but you can find some nice houses there also. Coco Beach is home to a wide variety of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and colorful fish. At Monteverde, you will experience the cloud forest. Coco Beach - Costa Rica Vacations This is definitely one of the best day trips from Playas del Coco and you dont have to drive far to have a ton of fun! There was one supermarket in town. 3. Don't be afraid to ask the vendors for recommendations on how to use the ingredients - they are likely to have family recipes to share. And dont forget to get your luggage ticket. Coco Beach is already an excellent place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, but Om Spa takes it a step further. Its an exhilarating day out in the rainforest and youll get to experience one of the best outdoor adventures in Costa Rica! If you rent, having electricity and water included is really a bonus, but usually not the case. Our personal favorite excursion from Playas del Coco is a private boat trip in the Gulf of Papagayo. One of the most popular things to do in Bocas del Toro is to visit the Red Frog Beach. It gets dark in Coco around 6 p.m. all year round, and you will see many expats reappear after the sun goes down. This special guide covers real estate, retirement and more in Costa Rica and is yours free when you sign up for our IL postcards below. Space Coast Segway Toursinvites you to experience the fun and adventure of riding a Segway through sunnyPort Canaveral. But it is not. There have been around 40 world records in fishing set on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, and at Playas del Coco in particular, the fishing is excellent. Starfish Beach is also known for its calm waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. Remember to wander the nature trail while youre there. You can often find people advertising these rental opportunities on a popular Facebook page for rentals in Coco. Playas del Coco is one of the oldest beach community settlements in Costa Rica with good infrastructure and amenities. Back in its original location in Coco center, across from the Panaderia Tutu, Rojas Bros. Boruca Indigenous Art & Gallery is the first ever art space and gallery in Coco Beach to exhibit the beautiful artisanry from our home village of Boruca, a small indigenous reserve in the southern part of Costa Rica. Beach towns are not the cheapest place to live. Not only do they know the area like the back of their hand, but they can also point out the animals you might otherwise miss. The spa's facials use natural ingredients to nourish and revitalize your skin. Explore new 2017 Cocoa Beach attractions, see how to best spend 3 days in the area, or where to . A great Farmers market happens every Thursday night and Sunday morning at the Garden Bar (a popular expat hangout). Expats with a bigger budget love the many amenities that come with a luxury lifestyle like those afforded to members of this neighborhood. Of all the beaches near Playas del Coco, Playa Bonita is hands down our favorite! The Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is one of the most important nesting sites for the endangered Green Sea Turtle. Yes, Coco Beach is known for its excellent waves and is a popular destination for surfers from all over the world. The day we visited, we were the only 2 people on the beach for the most part. COOL BLOCKS, MAIN STREETS AND WALKING TOURS, Certified Visitor Information Centers North Central Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Northeast Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central West Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central East Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Southwest Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Southeast Florida, Florida Travel and Vacation Guides - United States, Exchange Rates, Conversions, And Processes, Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of Commerce/Convention and Visitors Bureau. 10 Things to Do in Cocoa Beach, FL | VISIT FLORIDA But, all the infrastructure and amenities also come with a lot of development by the beachside, which brings crowds of people to Coco beach. Closest to Coco: Playa Ocotal, Playa Hermosa, Playa Panama. If you go during an arribada, you can see thousands of turtles crawling onto shore, digging holes and laying eggs. Food and drinks are provided! There are hiking trails and even a dog park. It does not rain here and is quite hot, sometimes reaching 100 F. Humidity is lower in these months due to the lack of rainfall. Outdoor Activities in Playas del Coco - Tripadvisor They also provide the opportunity to learn about herbal medicines, survival practices and means to protect wildlife. 2. Playa Buena is next to the adults-only all-inclusive resort Occidental Papagayo. Only a short 10-12 minutes drive away from the bustling beach town of Coco, lies this black sand beauty, Playa Ocotal. Owners at Pacifico, and those renting, have access to the Pacifico Beach Club, which is right along Coco Beach. One of the most popular activities to do in the area is snorkeling, and for those who love this aquatic sport, Cahuita National Park is the perfect place to explore the ocean's wonders. From the main road, you need to take the same turn on the dirt road as you would to go to Playa Calzn de Pobre or Playa Penca. Only a short 10-12 minutes drive away from the bustling beach town of Coco, lies this black sand beauty, Playa Ocotal. The open sailing tours are nice as well but they only go to one beach and you share the boat with anywhere from 20-70 other people!
Cheapest Flight To Lake Clark National Park,
Warcraft 3 Night Elf Units,
Normal Sleep Cycle For Adults,
1090 Lancaster Square, Roswell, Ga,
Articles C
