Things To Do
in Golfito
Golfito sits on Costa Rica's southern Pacific coast at the mouth of the Golfo Dulce, surrounded by a lush rainforest belt and mangroves. Once a bustling banana port, it now serves as a quieter gateway to the Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park with a strong fishing heritage. The town enjoys warm, humid weather year-round and a dramatic rainy season that nourishes its biodiversity.
Visitors come for wildlife encounters, tranquil beaches, and affordable adventure in a less-touristy corner of Costa Rica.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Golfito and settle into your beachfront accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the marina and soak in the scenic views of the ocean and surrounding hills. Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican breakfast at a nearby café, sampling fresh fruit and local coffee.
Explore the Golfito National Wildlife Refuge, where you can hike through lush forests and encounter diverse wildlife. Bring along your binoculars for birdwatching, as this area is home to various exotic species. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature before continuing your exploration.
Dine at a local restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and regional specialties. Watch the sun set over the Pacific while enjoying a refreshing cocktail. Stroll back to your accommodations along the beach, listening to the sounds of the waves.
After breakfast, head to the Golfito Golf Course, known for its beautiful scenery and challenging holes. Spend the morning playing a round of golf while taking in expansive views of the ocean. Connect with fellow golf enthusiasts who share your passion for the sport.
Visit the nearby town of Puerto Jiménez, where you can explore local shops and artisan markets. Sample delicious street food while mingling with locals, and perhaps even find a unique souvenir to take home. Take in the vibrant culture and charm of this small coastal town.
Return to Golfito and relax at your hotel. You may choose to indulge in a spa treatment to unwind and rejuvenate after your adventures. End the day with a sunset cruise on the Golfo Dulce, enjoying the tranquil waters and spotting marine life.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍝Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🏨One-night hotel room (budget) | $40-70 |
| 🚕Taxi short ride within town | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or breakfast in cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Lush biodiversity and wildlife encounters
- Affordable prices for nature-based activities
- Gateway to Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park
- Relaxed town atmosphere without large crowds
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities
- Rougher road conditions in the rainy season
- Smaller healthcare facilities in town; longer trips for certain services
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Necesito ayuda" - I need help
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in Golfito
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections and abundant birdlife make this a prime spot for water-level photography and silhouettes.
Colorful boats, a busy harbor, and sunset silhouettes provide vibrant nautical scenes.
Panoramic views over the turquoise bay with rainforest backdrop; ideal for wide landscapes.
Rugged coast, crashing waves, and dramatic skies—great for dramatic seascapes.
Food in Golfito
Golfito Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional plate with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and your choice of meat or fish; a Costa Rican staple widely available in Golfito.
Must-Try!
Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and peppers; best enjoyed at seaside eateries.
Vegetarian-friendly rice dish with mixed vegetables and seasoning.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh fruit stands and small stalls selling snacks; great for sampling tropical fruits and juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly Costa Rican ethos; greet with a smile and a handshake; be polite and patient in conversations.
Casual but respectful attire is appreciated in towns; dress modestly when visiting rural communities and churches.
Safety
Tipping in Golfito
Ensure a smooth experience
A 5-10% tip is common for good service if not already included; in higher-end places, 10% is customary.
Cash (USD and local colones) and major credit cards are widely accepted in towns; ATMs are available in Golfito; some remote spots may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Most sunny days, lower humidity, and clearer skies; perfect for outdoor activities and photography, though evenings can still be breezy near the coast.
High humidity and frequent showers; lush landscapes, powerful waterfalls, and fewer crowds; carry a light rain jacket and protect gear.
Golfito at Night
Hiking in Golfito
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible mangrove trails near Golfito with opportunities for guided hikes and boat tours.
World-renowned rainforest hiking with abundant wildlife; usually accessed via guided tours from nearby towns.
Airports
How to reach Golfito by plane.
Domestic flights to San José and other Costa Rican destinations; limited schedule.
Small domestic flights serving the Osa region and connecting towns.
Domestic flights to San José and other hubs; convenient for accessing Corcovado and the Osa Peninsula.
Major international gateway with extensive flight connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local Costa Rican families, coastal communities with Afro-Caribbean influences, and some expatriates drawn to nature-based living.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Inshore and offshore charters are popular for tarpon, snook, and Pacific species.
Nearby beaches offer beginner to intermediate surf breaks; swell varies seasonally.
Rainforest trails and mangrove ecosystems attract birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Golfito.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for plant-based dishes like arroz con vegetales, beans and rice plates, fresh salads, fruit juices, and veggie curries; most places can adapt dishes on request.