Puerto Limón

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Puerto Limón's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, where you can savor traditional Costa Rican Gallo Pinto. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Puerto Limón, admiring the colonial architecture and murals that tell the story of the city. Don’t miss the iconic Mercado Municipal, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Limón Museum to learn about the region's rich history and Afro-Caribbean heritage. Afterward, grab lunch at a nearby restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and local specialties like ceviche. Spend the rest of the afternoon at the Parque Vargas, where you can relax among the lush gardens and watch the locals go about their day.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the waterfront to enjoy a sunset stroll along the beach, with the waves gently lapping at your feet. For dinner, indulge in a feast of Caribbean cuisine at a beachfront restaurant, sampling dishes like rice and beans cooked in coconut milk. End your evening by soaking in the lively atmosphere of Puerto Limón, perhaps stopping at a local bar for some live music.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Kick off your day with an energizing breakfast before heading to Playa Bonita, known for its soft sands and gentle waves. Take a surfing lesson with a local instructor, who will guide you through the basics and help you catch your first wave. Enjoy the thrill of riding the surf while surrounded by the stunning coastal scenery.

afternoon
:

After a morning of surfing, grab a light lunch at a beachside shack offering fresh tropical juices and snack options. Spend the afternoon snorkeling or kayaking in the crystal-clear waters, where you can explore the vibrant marine life that thrives just offshore. If you're lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle or colorful fish swimming alongside you.

evening
:

As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, unwind on the beach with a refreshing drink in hand. For dinner, enjoy a seafood feast at a local restaurant, where you can savor grilled fish and plantains while listening to the sound of the surf. Cap off the evening with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories with fellow travelers under the starry sky.

day 3
Rainforest Excursion
morning
:

Begin your adventure with an early breakfast before embarking on a guided tour to the nearby Cahuita National Park. As you hike through the lush rainforest, keep an eye out for exotic wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, and a variety of colorful birds. The trails lead you to stunning viewpoints overlooking the Caribbean Sea, making for perfect photo opportunities.

afternoon
:

After exploring the park, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, surrounded by the sound of the waves and the lush greenery. Spend the afternoon swimming in the warm waters or snorkeling along the coral reefs, where you can marvel at the underwater beauty. Don't forget to take breaks to relax on the soft sand and soak in the sun.

evening
:

Return to Puerto Limón in the evening, where you can freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a local restaurant known for its authentic Caribbean dishes, such as ropa vieja or patacones. After dinner, take a stroll through the lively streets, experiencing the local nightlife and perhaps catching a dance performance.

day 4
Cacao and Chocolate Tour
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to a local cacao plantation for an immersive chocolate-making tour. Learn about the history of cacao in Costa Rica and how it is transformed into delicious chocolate products. Participate in a hands-on experience where you can harvest cacao pods and grind the beans to create your own chocolate treats.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a delightful lunch on the plantation, featuring local ingredients and flavors that complement the chocolate theme. Afterward, indulge your sweet tooth by sampling various types of chocolate and learning about the different production processes. Explore the lush surroundings of the plantation, taking in the sights and sounds of nature.

evening
:

Return to Puerto Limón for dinner, where you can find a restaurant that offers a chocolate-infused menu. Treat yourself to a dessert that features local chocolate, perhaps a cake or mousse that showcases the rich flavors you encountered earlier. Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll along the waterfront, reflecting on your sweet day in the heart of cacao country.

day 5
Adventure in Tortuguero National Park
morning
:

Set off early for a day trip to Tortuguero National Park, known for its incredible biodiversity and turtle nesting sites. Enjoy a scenic boat ride through the canals, where you can spot wildlife like caimans, monkeys, and a variety of bird species along the way. Arrive at the park and prepare for an exciting day of exploration.

afternoon
:

After a guided hike through the lush rainforest trails, enjoy a packed lunch in the park surrounded by nature's beauty. Spend the afternoon kayaking through the waterways, getting up close to the rich flora and fauna that thrive in this unique ecosystem. Don't forget to take plenty of photos of the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters.

evening
:

As you return to Puerto Limón, reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant. Choose a dish that features local ingredients, such as fresh seafood or plant-based options. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, soaking in the sounds of the ocean as you wind down from your adventurous day.

day 6
Exploring the Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then head to the bustling Mercado Municipal to explore the vibrant stalls. Browse through fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts, soaking in the lively atmosphere filled with the scents and sounds of local life. Engage with vendors, sampling tropical fruits and homemade snacks as you wander through the market.

afternoon
:

After your market adventure, enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery, trying out traditional dishes made from fresh ingredients sourced from the market. Spend the afternoon visiting local artisan workshops, where you can watch craftsmen at work and learn about their techniques. Consider purchasing some unique handmade souvenirs to take home as a reminder of your time in Puerto Limón.

evening
:

As evening approaches, find a local restaurant that offers a farm-to-table dining experience, utilizing ingredients from the market. Savor a delicious meal while listening to the sounds of the Caribbean, perhaps accompanied by live music. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the town, enjoying the warm evening air and vibrant nightlife.

day 7
Nature and Wildlife Spotting
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast before setting out for a guided birdwatching tour in the nearby rainforest. With a knowledgeable guide, explore trails where you can spot a variety of birds, including toucans and parrots, in their natural habitat. The early morning is the perfect time to appreciate the sounds and sights of nature waking up.

afternoon
:

After a morning of birdwatching, enjoy a packed lunch in a scenic spot surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon on a wildlife safari tour, where you can look for sloths, iguanas, and other creatures that call the rainforest home. Capture stunning photos of the lush landscape and its inhabitants as you explore.

evening
:

Return to Puerto Limón in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients. Reflect on your wildlife adventures over a delicious meal, perhaps trying a dish that features local fish or vegetables. Conclude your day with a quiet evening, listening to the sounds of nature as you relax in your accommodation.

day 8
Exploring Cahuita National Park
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Cahuita National Park, known for its stunning beaches and diverse ecosystems. As you hike along the park's trails, look out for monkeys swinging in the trees and colorful birds soaring overhead. Don't forget to take breaks to enjoy the beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.

afternoon
:

After exploring the trails, relax on the pristine beaches of Cahuita. Enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade of palm trees, savoring the sounds of the waves crashing nearby. Spend the afternoon swimming in the turquoise waters or snorkeling to discover the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to Puerto Limón for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional Caribbean dishes. Share your day’s experiences with fellow travelers over a delicious meal that celebrates the flavors of the region. End your evening with a calm walk along the beach, reflecting on the natural beauty you experienced throughout the day.

Discover Puerto Limón

Read more in our Puerto Limón 2025 Travel Guide.

Puerto Limón Travel Guide