Overshadowed by its Pacific Coast, Costa Rica’s Caribbean side is now gaining attention for its great surf waves, nature preserves and laid-back Jamaican vibe. Travelers looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten path experience are discovering a side of Costa Rica that few American tourists know exists.
The rich multicultural blend that typifies the Caribbean coast is a melding of Jamaican descendants and the indigenous Bribri and Cabecar people who inhabit the region.
“I just think it’s the spicy side of Costa Rica,” said Sonya Brattle, a computer analyst from Columbia. “I found the food more flavorful and the people more diverse than on the West Coast.”
That same diversity that has attracted backpackers and budget travel hounds for years is now getting noticed by others.
“The area is not for everyone, it’s less developed than the West Coast and can sometimes be intimidating,” said Colin Brownlee, an expatriate from Vancouver and owner of the Banana Arul Hotel in Puerto Viejo. “It’s more geared toward an adventure traveler and people who are open to new experiences.”
Close to the Panamanian border, the town of Puerto Viejo has become a hub for activity on the Caribbean coast. Long known as one of the top surfing sites in the Western Hemisphere, it’s now morphing into an adventure-lovers’ mecca.
“The beaches are lush and secluded, but there was so much to do I barely had a chance to rest,” said Jacob Greenlee, a graduate student from Baltimore. “During the week I was there I went horseback riding, hiking, surfing, snorkeling and bike riding.”
Just north of Puerto Viejo are the coral reefs of Cahuita National Park, which are perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. “The reef is full of an amazing spectrum of species of coral, fish and crustaceans,” said Greenlee. “There were even two sunken ships to explore.”
Developers have spied the location but ever-vigilant locals are working hard to protect the integrity of the area.
“We had a visitor who thought the area needed a golf course,” said Brownlee. “But one golf course and all the howler monkeys are gone — and that’s not the kind of trade we’re willing to make.”
On the Net
www.bananaazul.com
www.puertoviejosatellite.com
www.greencoast.com
