Costa Rica

Cahuita

Last Updated: Apr 26, 2012

A short jaunt south of Limon, the community of Cahuita epitomizes relaxation – its laid-back vibe and gentle pace offer a peaceful break from the bustle of nearby Puerto Viejo. Originally known as The Bluff, Cahuita was first settled in the 19th century by English-speaking turtle hunters from Panama and Nicaragua, who developed the town as a provisional and temporary home.

Quick Facts

Location: 9 miles north of Puerto Viejo
Average Temperature: 71-93°F
Altitude: Sea Level

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The settlement was located at Punta Cahuita, which is today part of Cahuita National Park. Its name is a compound of cawi, meaning "sangrillo tree" and ta, meaning "point." Together, they mean "point where the sangrillo trees grow."

Today, Cahuita is decidedly Afro-Caribbean with an international twist – vendors sell Jamaican jerk chicken and fresh fruit in the streets, coconut-infused delicacies simmer in pots beside wood-fired pizza ovens, and Patois can be heard along with Spanish on the street corner.

Most of the town’s businesses are owned by locals, which include both Costa Ricans and expats from around the globe. Together, these residents form a cohesive and vibrant community that welcomes visitors to their southern Caribbean paradise.

The village of Cahuita helps to administer the neighboring Cahuita National Park, located just a few blocks from downtown. In addition to beautiful beaches and sandy hiking trails, the park shelters one of only two living reefs in Costa Rica – the other is located in Manzanillo, less than 20 miles southeast of Cahuita.

Fishing, snorkeling, swimming, wildlife watching and horseback riding are some the area’s favorite activities. After a long day of adventure, visitors can enjoy Caribbean dishes, or dine at one of several restaurants featuring seafood and fusion cuisine.

Cahuita’s climate is unpredictable, though common wisdom says that when the rest of Costa Rica is rainy, the southern Caribbean is dry (or, at least, drier). Typically, the best times to visit Cahuita are February through April or September and October.

Cahuita Snapshot

Summary: Sleepy beach town; oceanfront national park; tours to a wide array of nature and cultural hotspots.
Landscape: Beaches, Rainforest
Attractions: Cahuita National Park, Caribbean Culture, Secluded Beaches
Activities: Bird & Wildlife Watching, Nature Tours, Snorkeling, Turtle Tours
Caters to: Budget Travelers, Families, Independent Travelers, Nature Lovers