Costa Rica Limon
The Caribbean Coast -- Most of the
Caribbean coast is a wide, steamy lowland laced with rivers and
blanketed with rainforests and banana plantations. The culture
here is predominantly Afro-Caribbean, with many residents speaking
English or Caribbean patois. The northern section of this coast is
accessible only by boat or small plane and is the site of
Tortuguero National Park, which is known for its nesting sea
turtles and riverboat trips. The towns of Cahuita, Puerto
Viejo, and Manzanillo, on the southern half of the
Caribbean coast, are increasingly popular destinations. The
coastline here boasts many beautiful beaches and, as yet, few
large hotels. However, this area can be rainy, especially between
December and April.
Cahuita National Park
One of the main
attractions of this area is the 600-acre Cahuita National Park,
which protects one of the last remaining coral reefs in Costa
Rica. Containing 35 species of coral, it is a haven for colourful
tropical fish and a popular snorkeling spot ( the best areas are
around Cahuita Point and Punta Vargas). Two shipwrecks lay seven
meters below, with masts and cannons visible. The best time of
year for snorkeling is February to April. The park is popular for
its beach and calm swimming spots (beware of the southern tip of
the park, where strong currents and waves make for dangerous
swimming). The forest, mangroves and marshlands of the park are
teeming with wildlife and birds, including parrots and macaws. The
entrance cost is $6 at Parque Vargas (755-0302) and by donation at
Kelly Creek (southern end of Cahuita).
Puerto
Viejo
About 16 km
south of Cahuita is the funky surfing village of Puerto Viejo.
Tank tops and flip flops are the uniform in this town that’s so
laid back, it’s almost horizontal. During the afternoons, soccer
games can be watched on Direct TV at El Dorado, at local bar and
restaurant which also offers pool tables. But the scene heats up
once the sun sets, and the little beach bars come alive with
reggae, salsa and sweaty dancers moving to the beat. The action
spills out onto the beach illuminated by the moon and candles in
front of Johnny’s Place, one of the most popular dance clubs.
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