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Puerto Viejo, located on Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean coast, is a destination overflowing with color, rhythm, and natural beauty. Its mix of turquoise water, coral reefs, tropical jungle, and Afro-Caribbean culture makes it an unforgettable place to explore. If you’re planning a visit to this region, you’ll quickly discover that there are many beautiful places to visit near Puerto Viejo worth adding to your itinerary. Whether you’re looking for untouched beaches, wildlife encounters, nature trails, or cultural experiences, the area surrounding Puerto Viejo offers something memorable for every traveler.
Staying at awā Beachfront Hotel, located on Playa Chiquita, gives you direct access to stunning scenery and peaceful surroundings while being close to the most iconic spots in the region. The hotel blends modern tropical design with nature, offering serene beachfront suites like the Exclusive Jungle Suite.
From this beautiful base, you can easily explore the charming destinations that make Puerto Viejo so special.
Below are five of the most beautiful places to visit near Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica—each offering a unique insight into the Caribbean’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Cahuita National Park
Cahuita National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most treasured protected areas, known for its white-sand beaches, calm waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Located just a short drive from Puerto Viejo, it’s a perfect place to spend a full day immersed in nature. As you walk along the park’s coastal trails, you’ll spot monkeys, sloths, raccoons, butterflies, and an array of tropical birds.
Snorkeling is one of the park’s highlights since Cahuita is home to one of the largest coral reef systems in the country. The water is often clear and warm, creating ideal conditions for discovering colorful marine life such as tropical fish, sea fans, and corals. The scenic combination of jungle and sea makes Cahuita one of the most beautiful places to visit near Puerto Viejo for nature lovers.
Guests at awā Beachfront Hotel often enjoy pairing their park visit with a relaxing afternoon back at the hotel, taking advantage of amenities like beachfront access and peaceful lounging areas. You can see the hotel’s full list of
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Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
South of Puerto Viejo lies the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, a place where the Caribbean Sea and jungle meet in the most dramatic and picturesque way. This refuge is especially loved by travelers seeking quiet beaches, scenic viewpoints, and opportunities to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
The trails wind through lush tropical forests where you may glimpse toucans, howler monkeys, frogs, and sloths. The coastline here is rugged and pristine, making it an exceptional place to admire the power of nature. Many travelers visit Gandoca-Manzanillo to enjoy swimming in calm natural pools or to hike up to panoramic viewpoints that look out over endless shades of blue and green.
Because the refuge is close to Playa Chiquita, guests staying at awā Beachfront Hotel find it easy to explore this area while returning to the comfort of their suite in minutes. If you’re looking for a place to connect deeply with nature, this refuge is one of the most extraordinary places to visit near Puerto Viejo.
Playa Cocles
Playa Cocles is one of the most active and energetic beaches near Puerto Viejo. Known for its golden sands, coconut palms, and consistent waves, it’s a favorite among both surfers and sunseekers. If you enjoy swimming in warm tropical waters or want to take a surf lesson, Playa Cocles is a perfect choice.
Despite its popularity, Playa Cocles maintains a relaxed vibe. The beach is wide and open, and the ocean breeze makes it a refreshing place to spend the day. Lifeguards are often present, which provides additional safety for swimmers. Cocles is also a wonderful place to walk along the shore at sunset, as the golden light reflects beautifully on the water.
Guests of awā often enjoy visiting Playa Cocles for a more active beach experience before coming back to the serenity of the hotel’s private beachfront setting. The contrast between Cocles’ vibrant energy and the peaceful environment at awā creates a balanced and memorable stay.
Punta Uva
Punta Uva is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Costa Rica, and it’s easy to see why. The calm, crystal-clear water and the gentle curve of the bay make it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling. The coral formations near the coastline are home to colorful fish and other marine species, making the underwater world just as captivating as the scenery above.
The beach is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, creating a postcard-perfect image that travelers never forget. Punta Uva is especially popular with couples and families who want a quiet and picturesque setting. The views from the palm-lined shore are some of the best in the region.
Located just minutes from awā Beachfront Hotel, Punta Uva is a must-see beach for anyone visiting Puerto Viejo. Guests often combine their visit to Punta Uva with a relaxing evening back at the hotel’s suites.
BriBri Waterfalls
For travelers who want to experience something beyond the beach, the BriBri Waterfalls offer a refreshing and nature-filled adventure. Located inland, these waterfalls are surrounded by dense rainforest and are accessible through a scenic drive followed by a short hike.
Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted with clear, cool pools perfect for swimming and relaxing. The waterfalls vary in height and flow, but each spot offers a peaceful environment where you can unwind, enjoy the sounds of nature, and escape the tropical heat.
Visiting the BriBri Waterfalls is also an opportunity to connect with the local Indigenous BriBri community, which is known for its deep cultural roots and traditional cacao production. Many tours include visits to Indigenous farms, chocolate-making demonstrations, and cultural storytelling.
The combination of nature and cultural immersion makes the BriBri Waterfalls one of the most enriching places to visit near Puerto Viejo.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best places to visit near Puerto Viejo?
Some of the most beautiful places include Cahuita National Park, Punta Uva, Playa Cocles, the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, and the BriBri Waterfalls.
How far are the beaches and parks from awā Beachfront Hotel?
Most of the beaches and parks are within a 10–25 minute drive, while some like Playa Chiquita are just steps away.
Is Puerto Viejo safe for exploring?
Yes, Puerto Viejo is generally safe for travelers who use basic precautions. Daytime exploration of beaches, trails, and towns is popular and enjoyable.
Can I visit all five places in one trip?
Absolutely. Many visitors explore one or two places a day and combine them with relaxation time at awā.
Is Punta Uva good for swimming?
Yes, Punta Uva is known for its calm, clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
