Puerto Limón, more commonly referred to as Limón, is the largest city on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. The port city of Limón is home to the Port of Moin, the largest port in Costa Rica, and the city itself is a major hub on the Atlantic slope of the country, with many cruise ships stopping here as a port of call.
Puerto Limón is also unique as the province of Limón, and the city itself, is home to the Afro-Caribbean culture, giving a different feel and flavor to Costa Rica. The deep and rich history of the influx of African and Jamaican immigration to the region is one of the reasons why the province of Limón, Puerto Limón, and the smaller beach communities to the south are such a remarkable and distinct place, setting it apart from the rest of Costa Rican culture.
The beautiful seaport at Puerto Limon, Costa Rica7 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Puerto Limón, Costa Rica
1. Walking Tour of Puerto Limón
While many people pass through Limón on their way to the beaches south of the port city, those who take the time to get to know Limón will be rewarded for their efforts. The city itself can feel a bit rough around the edges, like any port city, but the rich history of Jamaican and African descendants, the ties to Marcus Garvey and the Black Star Line shipping company, paired with the unique and delicious rice and beans (cooked with coconut milk and Caribbean spices) make Puerto Limón an experience unto itself.
Check out some of the highlights, like Parque Balvanero Vargas, stroll along the waterfront, visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral, and grab a patty at the famous El Patty soda. You can sign up for a guided walking tour or explore the downtown area on your own. It’s not a very large city, and it is walkable, but be aware that the temperatures can get quite high, and the sun is intense. Stay hydrated and avoid walking in the midday sun.
Historical gazebo at Parque Vargas in Puerto Limon, Costa Rica2. Limón Farmer’s Market (La Feria del Agricultor)
If you happen to be in Limón, or passing through on a Friday or a Saturday, be sure to check out the feria or farmer’s market. This massive outdoor market draws vendors from the central valley and all over the Limón Province, selling fresh fruit and vegetables. The colors are vibrant, and there is more variety here than you’ll ever find in the grocery stores. The best part? The prices cannot be beat! So if you enjoy cooking for yourself or simply want to sample the freshest tropical fruit around, this is a great way to spend a morning.
The market takes place every Friday and Saturday. It’s best to arrive early to get the best and freshest produce. The location is just off the main highway, Ruta 32, across from the Limón cemetery.
3. Boat Tour to Visit La Isla Uvita
Not to be confused with the town of Uvita, located on the Southern Pacific Coast, the Isla Uvita, or Quiribrí as it is known by the indigenous people of the area, is a small island that sits just offshore, in front of Limón. It’s said that Christopher Columbus anchored his ship here on his fourth voyage to the Americas. Today, visitors can visit the island via boat tours departing from Puerto Limón. There are some trails to walk on the island and some nice swimming places on the far shore. When conditions are just right, surfers head out to catch some waves off the island’s breaks, though this is recommended for experienced surfers only.
4. Tortuguero Canals
One of the main reasons that visitors to Costa Rica pass through Limón is to head to Tortuguero, also known as the Amazon of Costa Rica. This canal and waterway system is teeming with wildlife like crocodiles, caimans, toucans, sloths, capuchin and howler monkeys, and so much more.
Boats leave from the Moin Terminal, just outside of Puerto Limón, taking visitors up to the town of Tortuguero, home to the national park by the same name. The most enjoyable option is to spend a few nights in the town of Tortuguero to be fully immersed in the jungle and the wildlife, though there are day trip options for those who wish to experience the canals but don’t have the time to stay a night or two.
5. Cahuita National Park
Puerto Limón is one of the main ports of call for cruise ships that include a Costa Rican stop, the other being Puntarenas on the Pacific Coast. For cruisers who just have the day, it’s not uncommon to head out of the city to see more of what Costa Rica is famous for: wildlife.
One of the best places to do just that on the Caribbean Coast is at Cahuita National Park. Located thirty minutes south of Puerto Limón, the small town of Cahuita is a vibe on its own. The real, laid back feel of Caribbean culture shines through in the small coastal town. The national park draws visitors from all of the world to hike along its sandy paths and snorkel just offshore in its coral reefs. This short drive from Puerto Limón is an excellent option for a day trip and should be on any Limón Province itinerary.
6. Puerto Viejo Excursion
Another thirty minutes down the road from Cahuita (an hour from Limón) is the town of Puerto Viejo. Once a small fishing village, Puerto Viejo is now a major destination, boasting a nightlife scene that attracts international and national visitors alike. The town is a melting pot of hippies on yoga retreats, surfers catching waves, locals selling fish and offering tours, and a bustling foodie scene with coffee culture to boot.
The beaches here are among the top-rated in the world (check out Punta Uva), and being just an hour away from Puerto Limón, it’s a must-see stop.
7. Veragua Rainforest
While the Caribbean side of Costa Rica doesn’t feature as many private reserves as the rest of the country, there are still a few, and one is Veragua Rainforest. This 200-acre private reserve provides visitors with the opportunity to explore nature while supporting conservation.
Guests have the option to spend the night or visit for the day, exploring the reserve via the Sky Gondola, zip line canopy tour, and hiking the various trails. For guests who opt to stay overnight or nearby, there is a guided night hike to see the side of the jungle that most people never get to see.
Tour options at Veragua Rainforest range from 2 to 7 hours, with costs between $66 and $125 depending on what activities you’d like to explore and if transportation is required. Veragua Rainforest is about 45 minutes from Limón by car.
Areas in Puerto Limón, Costa Rica
Downtown Limón
The most commonly visited part of the city is the downtown area, a grid layout of ten blocks by five blocks, from the waterfront to the intersection of Ruta 32, coming from San Jose, and Ruta 36, heading to the beaches south. This downtown area is home to the Parque Balvanero Vargas, the Sacred Heart Cathedral, and the cruise port. You can easily walk the entire downtown area in about half a day, as long as the heat doesn’t tire you out.
Playa Bonita
One of the main beaches in the Puerto Limón vicinity is Playa Bonita, and this place gets packed with city residents on the weekends. This area is just outside of Puerto Limón, heading back up the coast to the port of Moin. The road curves along the coastline here, and a few restaurants can be found, along with a handful of oceanfront hotels. In addition to the popular beach, there is also the Parque Cariari, featuring hiking trails and a swimming hole.
Barrio San Juan
Barrio San Juan isn’t the most beautiful neighborhood, but it’s where you’ll go if you plan on hitting the Limón Feria, or farmer’s market. The main highway, Ruta 32 runs right through the center of Limón and Barrio San Juan, and the massive outdoor market is just off the side of the road. Across the highway is the Limón Cemetery. It might be a bit morbid for some, but for those who enjoy exploring all aspects of a culture, it’s interesting to see the cemetery style and the fact that the cemetery is in the center of town.
Puerto Limón, Costa Rica Weather
Puerto Limón is hot and humid year-round. Some months are rainier than others, but all months are hot and tropical.
The seasons in Limón Province aren’t as distinct as those in other parts of Costa Rica. Rain tends to fall heavily from November to February, with a brief break in March when conditions dry out. Then the rain falls again in April and May. June tends to be dry, and July is usually very wet.
The only time of year that feels certain is the Caribbean verano or summer, spanning August, September, and October, when it’s dry, hot, and the sea goes completely flat.
While the rain might sound like a deterrent to visit in wetter months, it’s not. The rain helps cool off the Caribbean heat and provides a welcome respite. The “rainy” season happens to coincide with the high season for Limón, so don’t let the weather get in your way; no one in Limón does!
Food Scene in Puerto Limón, Costa Rica
Probably the most famous Limónese dish is Rice and Beans. There are songs about this dish, and while the name might sound simple, the complexity of flavors of a well-made Rice and Beans is unforgettable. Taking the base of white rice and either red or black beans, this is not to be confused with gallo pinto, which is the Tico beans with rice. Rice and Beans is a Caribbean culinary experience, and being known as the best Rice and Beans in town is a coveted title.
Rice and Beans and many other Limónese dishes feature coconut milk and coconut meat as a staple ingredient, giving the food in this region a distinct twist not found in the rest of the country. Pollo Caribeno is a slow-cooked chicken that falls off the bone, simmered for hours in coconut-infused salsa caribeno. Or try the carne en salsa for slow-cooked beef in a similar sauce. Most Caribbean sodas will offer casados, traditional Tico style with plain white rice and beans served separately, or order with Rice and Beans and patacones for a truly Caribbean experience.
For another truly Caribbean culinary experience, try the Ron Don, patois for run-down. This coconut milk broth seafood soup is made with whatever the fishermen could run down that day. Ron Don is typically a speciality soup and not always available, so be sure to ask for the daily specials!
Plan Your Trip to Puerto Limón, Costa Rica
Is Puerto Limón, Costa Rica safe?
Puerto Limón is the largest city in the Limón Province and the largest city in Costa Rica outside of the Greater Metropolitan Area. With around 75,000 inhabitants, Puerto Limón has a wide range of residents and neighbors, some safer than others. While recent news outlets highlight the crime and drug trafficking issues in Puerto Limón and all of Costa Rica, the city itself is still safe to visit.
Certain neighborhoods are best avoided, such as Limóncito and Cieneguita, but sticking to the downtown area, Playa Bonita, and the waterfront, and booking tours with authorized tour providers will ensure a safe and memorable Puerto Limón experience.
Where is Puerto Limón?
Puerto Limón is located on the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, about a three-hour drive from San Jose. It’s only about 100 miles, but the mountainous road that zigs and zags through Baurilo Carrillo National Park along the Ruta 32 can be slow going at times. Prone to accidents and road closures, make sure to check Google Maps before heading out, especially during the rainy season. There are alternative routes to take from the central valley to reach Limón, so if Ruta 32 is closed, the more scenic Ruta 10 (via Turrialba) or Ruta 126 (Vara Blanca) are options.
Puerto Limón is the gateway to the famous Caribbean beaches to the south–Puerto Viejo, Punta Uva, Cahuita, Manzanillo, and more–and the canals of Tortuguero to the north.
Getting to Puerto Limón
By Car
While the drive from San Jose or Alajuela can be daunting for some, leave early in the morning and you’ll be fine. In recent years, the highway from Guapiles to Limón has been expanded, allowing for up to three lanes in sections. The drive takes just around three hours as long as there are no accidents.
By Bus/Shuttle
For those who don’t feel like driving themselves, there are several other options to reach Puerto Limón.
Two public bus companies service the route, Mepe and Caribenos. The bus takes slightly longer than by car, and stops once along the route for a bathroom break and refreshments. Several shuttle companies also operate along the route. Check out Caribe Shuttle or Interbus for door-to-door service.
By Plane
The faster option by far is to fly from SJO to Limón Airport, a small airstrip just south of Puerto Limón. The flight takes just thirty minutes, and tickets cost around $130. A taxi into town from the Limón Airport takes less than ten minutes.
Visiting Puerto Limón and the Caribbean side of Costa Rica is a completely different experience from visiting the rest of the country. It shows how diverse this tiny yet mighty country is. Puerto Limón is a less-visited destination and rewards those intrepid travelers who decide to get off the beaten path and discover the vibrant, rich, and flavorful port city of Limón.
If you’re interested in visiting Puerto Limón and the Limón Province but don’t know where to start or what to see and do, contact us at Costa Rica Escapes and let us plan your perfect Caribbean vacation.