Things To Do
in Parrita
Parrita, Costa Rica, is a serene coastal town located on the Central Pacific coast, known for its stunning beaches and lush tropical surroundings. It is less touristy compared to other destinations, providing a more authentic Costa Rican experience. This town is famous for its agriculture, especially palm oil plantations, and offers visitors a glimpse into local life.
Parrita's proximity to the Manuel Antonio National Park makes it an ideal base for exploring the biodiversity of the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional Costa Rican breakfast at a local café, then stroll along Playa Parrita to enjoy the sunrise.
Visit the nearby town of Quepos and explore the Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can hike and spot diverse wildlife.
Return to Parrita for dinner at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood while listening to the waves.
Take a guided kayak tour through the mangroves of the Parrita River, observing the unique ecosystem.
Relax on the beach or take a surf lesson at Playa Parrita.
Enjoy a casual dinner at a local sodas (small restaurants) and experience the community atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $10-$15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-$4 |
| 🍉Fresh fruit | $1-$3 |
| 🚕Taxi fare (within town) | $5-$10 |
| 🏨Hotel night | $50-$100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Less touristy compared to other Costa Rican destinations, offering an authentic experience.
- Access to beautiful beaches and natural parks.
- Friendly locals and rich cultural experiences.
- Limited nightlife options.
- Public transportation can be infrequent.
- Fewer amenities compared to larger cities.
- "¡Pura vida!" - Pure life! (a common greeting)
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Lo siento" - I'm sorry
Places to Visit in Parrita
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture the stunning sunsets and beautiful beach scenery, perfect for nature photography.
A tranquil setting where you can photograph diverse wildlife and lush greenery.
An overlook that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding landscape.
Food in Parrita
Parrita Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple dish made of rice and beans, often served with eggs for breakfast.
Must-Try!
Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and tomatoes, perfect for a refreshing meal.
A traditional plate consisting of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held weekly, this market offers fresh local produce, artisanal products, and a chance to taste local snacks.
Look for vendors selling empanadas, churros, and fresh fruit juices along the streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or a warm 'Hola' is the norm when meeting someone; personal space is valued.
Casual attire is acceptable, but dress modestly when visiting religious sites or local communities.
While Costa Ricans are generally relaxed about time, it's polite to be on time for meetings or events.
Safety
Tipping in Parrita
Ensure a smooth experience
It is common to leave a tip of 10% at restaurants if service is not included, and rounding up is appreciated for taxi drivers.
Costa Rica uses the Costa Rican colón (CRC), but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are also commonly used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny days, ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures, as rainfall is minimal.
This season brings more rain, especially in the afternoons, which nourishes the lush vegetation and is perfect for wildlife spotting.
Tourist influx increases during Christmas and New Year, so expect busy beaches and higher prices.
A quieter time to visit with pleasant weather and fewer tourists, making it a great time for exploration.
Parrita at Night
Hiking in Parrita
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Various scenic trails offer opportunities to hike through lush rainforests while spotting wildlife and enjoying views of the coast.
A challenging hike with rewarding vistas, located a short drive from Parrita, ideal for experienced hikers.
Airports
How to reach Parrita by plane.
The nearest airport to Parrita, located about 20 km away, offering domestic flights and shuttle services to major tourist areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population consists of locals who are warm and welcoming, often eager to share their culture and traditions.
A growing number of expatriates, particularly from the United States and Europe, have settled in Parrita, contributing to the diverse cultural landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Surfing is popular along the Pacific coast, with many locals and tourists enjoying the waves at Playa Parrita.
Soccer is a beloved sport in Costa Rica, with local teams and matches being a significant part of community life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Parrita.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially bean and rice-based meals.
While options are limited, fresh fruits and vegetables are widely available, and some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free diets.