Golfito, Costa Rica Tourism

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road squeezed between the gulf and surrounding thickly forested mountains.

Golfito was the commercial center of a major banana-growing region from 1938 to 1985. The United Fruit Company had its headquarters in Golfito for many years, but closed for various reasons in 1985. In response to the closing of the company complex, the Costa Rican government established the town as a duty-free port in 1990 in hopes of boosting the economy. While items are still taxed, visitors should note that taxes here are less than anywhere in the country.

There are a few fishing and boating marinas in Golfito, and foreign yachts and cruise ships can often be seen moored in the well-protected port. Several tour operators offer excursions to nearby national parks, and boating, sea kayaking, diving and sportfishing are popular activities in the area. The large, duty-free shopping complex is found in northern Golfito.