PUNTARENAS, Costa Rica

Puntarenas is one of the most important tourism regions in Costa Rica. It’s coastline is speckled with islands, beaches, and inlets, and it’s located 70 miles from the capital, San José.

 his port of call is most well known for its proximity to some of Costa Rica’s best national parks and green areas. Options include ziplines, aerial trams, and river cruises through the mangroves. We highly recommend booking a tour in advanced!

 Another option is to travel into San José, the capital of the country. It’s a massive city with so much to see and do, but some attractions to put at the top of your list are Central Park, Morazan Park, Spanish Park, National Park, Democracy Plaza and the Jade Museum. Note that is it a 2 hour drive each way, and you must plan accordingly.

If you rather stay closer to home, the main attraction in Puntarenas is the beach. You’ll also find a handful of restaurants and locals may have items for sale.

PORT FAST FACTS

  • DOCKED OR TENDERED?

    Docked. Long narrow pier.

  • TERMINAL BUILDING OR PIER?

    No terminal building upon most recent visit.

  • WIFI AVAILABLE?

    Not upon last visit.

  • PUBLIC RESTROOMS ASHORE?

    Not right by the port.

  • TOURIST INFORMATION?

    Not upon most recent visit.

  • MAPS AVAILABLE?

    Not upon last visit.

  • TAXIs / PUBLIC TRANSPORT?

    Usually there is a port operated tram / trolley type service to take you to the end of the pier. Service for tips. Once at the port gate, local taxis are available.

  • ATMs / MONEY EXCHANGE?

    Not upon most recent visit.

PORT AREA PHOTOS

TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO: PUNTARENAS

  • Casa De La Cultura

    CULTURAL CENTER

    Learn more HERE.

  • Puntarenas Cathedral

    RELIGIOUS BUILDING

    Learn more HERE.

  • El Faro de Puntarenas

    CULTURAL LANDMARK

    Learn more HERE.

TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO: NATURE OPTIONS

  • Tarcoles River

    WILDLIFE SPOTTING

    Learn more HERE.

  • Zip Lining

    ADVENTURE / TOUR OPTION

    Check option with your cruise line.

  • Pura Vida Gardens & Waterfalls

    NATURAL SITE

    Learn more HERE.

TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO: SAN JOSE

  • National Theater

    CULTURAL BUILDING

    Learn more HERE.

  • Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

    MUSEUM

    Learn more HERE.

  • Parque Central

    PUBLIC SPACE

    Learn more HERE.

  • Mercado Central

    MARKET

    Learn more HERE.

  • Barrio Amon

    DISTRICT

    Learn more HERE.

  • National Museum

    MUSEUM

    Learn more HERE.

  • Parque Le Sabana

    PUBLIC SPACE

    Learn more HERE.

  • Mercado Nacional de Artesanías

    MARKET

    Learn more HERE.