Central Pacific Coast Attractions
Costa Rica's central Pacific coast is one of the country's top vacation destinations. Long and indented, the Pacific coast is better developed for tourism than the Caribbean coast.
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Rainmaker
The Rainmaker is an aerial walkway surrounded by rainforest canopy. A trail also runs through the canyon floor where there are streams and waterfalls.
Caldera Port
This is Costa Rica's major port on the Pacific coast. It opened in 1981, and several commercial ships, cruise ships and yachts are often moored here.
Esterillos Beach Area
Esterillos Oeste (west), Esterillos Centro (center) and Esterillos Este (east) are three tiny villages found spread along Esterillos Beach on the Pacific coast. There are various surfing areas along the beach. There are a few accommodations in the area.
Herradura Beach
Herradura Beach is a sheltered, palm fringed black sand beach. This quiet beach was originally popular with campers, but more development has taken place. Today, there is a hotel, vacation complex and marina at Herradura, where cruise ships occasionally moor.
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On-site accomodations
Restaurant or food service
Restaurant or food service
Leona Point
This rocky headland on the Pacific coast offers upscale accommodations and attractive views. Sportfishing tours, river jungle cruises, sunset cruises, scuba diving tours and lessons are offered. Equipment for kayaking, sailing, surfing, snorkelling and windsurfing can be rented on the spot. Boat charters are available as well.
A US-based company called JD's Watersports runs a complete water-sports operation offering several excursions and equipment.
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On-site accomodations
Restaurant or food service
Restaurant or food service
Mata de Limon, Costa Rica
Mata de Limón is a small village that has become a popular beach resort with residents from the Puntarenas and highlands region. A few options for accommodation and several restaurants are found here. The village is divided into two sections by a river, and most services are found on the south side. Also here is a mangrove lagoon offering very good birding, especially during low tide.
Central Pacific Coast Surroundings
Puntarenas Surroundings - Doña Ana & Boca Barranca Beaches
These two beaches are good for swimming, sunbathing and surfing. Boca Barranca is a bit better for surfing, while Doña Ana is better developed for visitors. Doña Ana features changing areas, picnic areas as well as several snack bars.
