Things To Do
in Parrita
Parrita is a laid-back Pacific coast town in Costa Rica known for its long sandy beaches and welcoming locals. It's a gateway for travelers seeking sun, surf, and easy access to national parks. The town exudes a rural, fishing-town vibe with simple eateries, markets, and a strong community spirit.
Its proximity to Manuel Antonio, Carara National Park, and other wildlife-rich areas makes it a convenient base for nature lovers who want quieter alternatives to busier hotspots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the pristine shores of Playa Parrita, where the soft golden sands meet the turquoise waves. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh tropical fruits and local coffee at a beachside café as the sun rises over the Pacific. Afterward, take some time to relax and soak in the stunning ocean views before the day heats up.
Spend your afternoon engaging in thrilling water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding, exploring the coastline from a different perspective. Alternatively, take a guided boat tour to spot dolphins and other marine life in their natural habitat. Enjoy a leisurely beachside lunch at one of the many local eateries that serve delicious seafood dishes.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot on the beach to witness a breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Savor a traditional Costa Rican dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try dishes like 'casado' or freshly caught fish. End your day with a stroll along the beach, listening to the soothing sound of the waves lapping against the shore.
Embark on an early morning journey into the nearby Carara National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity. As you hike along the trails, keep your eyes peeled for colorful birds, including the iconic scarlet macaw, as well as monkeys and sloths. The morning air is filled with the sounds of nature, making it an invigorating start to the day.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by the lush rainforest, taking in the sights and sounds of the wild. Continue your trek through the park, discovering hidden waterfalls and unique flora along the way. Make sure to capture the beauty of your surroundings with photographs, as the vibrant greens and diverse wildlife are truly enchanting.
Return to Parrita and unwind with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant known for its authentic Costa Rican cuisine. Share stories of your wildlife encounters with fellow travelers and locals. Conclude your evening with a relaxing walk through town, perhaps stopping for some ice cream at a local shop.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🛍️Groceries (per week) | $40-70 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within town) | $3-8 |
| 🥤Coffee or smoothie | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace of life and friendly locals
- Strong access to nature and nearby parks
- Affordable meals and outdoor activities
- Proximity to Jacó and Manuel Antonio for extra options
- Limited nightlife within Parrita itself
- Public transportation can be infrequent outside peak hours
- Rural roads can be rough in heavy rain
- Smaller selection of upscale dining compared to bigger towns
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Pura vida" - Pure life
Places to Visit in Parrita
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, sandy beach with gentle waves and colorful skies, ideal for long exposure, silhouettes, and golden-hour photography.
Classic vantage point for dramatic crocodile silhouettes against the river and mangrove scenery, especially at dusk.
Rainforest trails with rich biodiversity; perfect for bird photography, plant textures, and tropical light filtering through the canopy.
Quieter beach with broad horizons and sunset scenes; excellent for wide landscape shots and surfers.
Shallow estuarine waters bordered by mangroves; great for wildlife motifs, reflections, and golden-hour water textures.
Food in Parrita
Parrita Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Costa Rican plate of rice, beans, plantains, salad, a choice of protein, and a light sauce. Commonly served in soda eateries across Parrita.
Must-Try!
Yellow rice with chicken, vegetables, and herbs; a comforting staple often found in local restaurants.
Fresh, citrusy fish or shrimp marinated and served with onions, cilantro, and lime—great as a light, flavorful meal or snack near the beach.
Whole fried fish with lime, onions, and fresh sides; a popular beachfront dish highlighted by local catches.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, empanadas, fruits, and ready-to-eat snacks from neighborhood vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people warmly with “Pura Vida” and maintain a relaxed, friendly demeanor. Respectfulness and politeness go a long way.
A handshake or nod is common; avoid loud conversations in public spaces. Dress modestly when visiting small towns and religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Parrita
Ensure a smooth experience
In tourist areas, a 10% tip is common if a service charge isn’t included. For casual eateries, rounding up the bill or a small tip is appreciated. Tipping is not mandatory but warmly received.
Cash (Costa Rican colón) is widely accepted, as are US dollars in many tourist spots. Credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bright sunny days with minimal rain, ideal for beach time, boat trips, and outdoor hikes. Expect higher visibility for wildlife and clearer seas, though it can be hotter and drier.
Lush greens and more frequent afternoon showers, especially May and October. Fewer crowds and greener landscapes; be prepared for rain and cooler mornings.
Parrita at Night
Hiking in Parrita
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails ranging from easy boardwalks to moderate hikes, offering rich birdlife (including scarlet macaws) and lush rainforest scenery.
Coastal hillside paths with panoramic Pacific views; suitable for a gentle hike at sunrise or sunset.
Airports
How to reach Parrita by plane.
Costa Rica's main international gateway near San José; about 2.5–3.5 hours by road to Parrita, depending on traffic and route.
Liberia's international airport in the Guanacaste region; longer drive to Parrita, typically used for northern Pacific access.
Domestic airport near Quepos; short transfer to Manuel Antonio and the surrounding coast, useful for quick hops from SJO.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents in fishing and farming communities who maintain a laid-back coastal lifestyle.
Visitors drawn by the beaches and nearby parks; a mix of backpackers and mid-range tourists.
Some foreign residents seeking a quieter base on the Pacific coast with easier access to nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A region favored by surfers with spots along the coastline, including Bejuco and nearby beaches, offering lessons and boards for rent.
Both shore and boat fishing are popular, with trips targeting dorado, marlin, snapper, and other Pacific species.
A common pastime in towns and beaches; informal games and local leagues are part of daily life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Parrita.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in sodas and casual eateries. Look for bean-based dishes, rice with veggies, salads, and fruit plates; many places can modify dishes if you ask for more veggies or plantains instead of meat.