Punta Uva (located right next to Puerto Viejo) is the hidden treasure of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast—a destination that feels worlds away from the Pacific.
With its lush tropical jungle and surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, Punta Uva offers an intimate, culturally rich, and eco-conscious experience. Afro-Caribbean traditions, vibrant music, spicy cuisine, and untouched natural beauty define this unique region.
The boutique hotels in Punta Uva are designed to integrate with the wilderness, offering travelers an authentic and immersive stay.
The Caribbean Soul of Costa Rica: Discovering Punta Uva
What makes Punta Uva so special?
- Afro-Caribbean Heritage: A vibrant culture rooted in Jamaican influence and Caribbean traditions.
- Authentic Cuisine: Dishes like rice and beans with coconut milk, jerk chicken, and plantain specialties.
- Jungle Meets Ocean: Dense rainforest meets white-sand shores.
- Coral Reefs from Shore: Accessible snorkeling with colorful marine life.
- Relaxed & Rhythmic: A slower pace set to calypso and reggae beats.
- Multilingual Vibes: Hear Spanish, Caribbean English, and Patois in everyday conversation.
- Wildlife & Conservation: Sloths, toucans, and turtles coexist with minimal development.
Why the Caribbean Side Offers a Different Costa Rica
Punta Uva delivers a stark contrast to the Pacific coast:
- Visual Paradise: White sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters replace the Pacific’s darker beaches.
- Authenticity Over Commercialization: Less developed and more connected to tradition.
- Microclimate Advantage: September and October are drier here, unlike the rest of the country.
- Unique Biodiversity: Red-eyed tree frogs, coral species, and tropical birds abound.
- Rich Cultural History: Influenced by Jamaican and Afro-Caribbean migrations via the Panama Canal.
- Distinct Flavors: Coconut, banana, rum, and chili infuse the cuisine.
Our Selection Criteria for Caribbean Excellence
We selected Punta Uva’s best hotels based on:
- Cultural Integration: Afro-Caribbean ownership or influence.
- Proximity to Beaches & Reefs: Walking access to Punta Uva and Manzanillo.
- Sustainable Architecture: Low-impact building materials and eco-design.
- Gastronomic Authenticity: Locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes.
- Community Connection: Support for local artisans and guides.
- Nearby Nature: Access to Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge and Cahuita National Park
- Cultural Preservation: Promotion of local language, art, and traditions.
The 7 Best Places to Stay in Punta Uva
1. Dragonfly Beach Retreat
A boutique retreat with direct beach access and rustic Caribbean charm.
- Traditional wooden bungalows nestled in jungle gardens
- Local Caribbean breakfast and onsite yoga
- Steps from coral reefs and dolphin tours
Book now: Dragonfly Beach Retreat
2. Bungalows Beachfront Punta Uva
Tranquil beachfront bungalows ideal for relaxation and nature lovers.
- Ocean-view hammocks and eco-conscious design
- Direct reef access for snorkeling
- Perfect for couples and solo travelers
Book now: Bungalows Beachfront
3. Arrecife Punta Uva
Jungle-lodge style lodging with a deep local connection.
- Rainforest immersion with traditional architecture
- Rustic aparthotel featuring an authentic Caribbean restaurant
- Direct access to Punta Uva beach
4. Almonds & Corals
An iconic eco-lodge experience surrounded by tropical trees.
- Beautiful bungalows with luxurious amenities
- Garden, terrace, bar and games room in a jungle setting
- Steps from the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
5. Luna Bella Beach Bungalows
Laid-back charm with a barefoot vibe near Playa Punta Uva.
- Artistic decor and natural materials
- Local cuisine served on-site with vegetarian options
- Great for families and extended stays
6. Exotico Beach Hotel
Modern 5-star boutique hotel with tropical elegance and personalized service.
- Easy access to the beach
- Gourmet Caribbean-style breakfasts
- Access to kayaking and guided snorkeling tours
7. Lanna Ban Hotel
Asian-Caribbean fusion in the heart of the jungle.
- Thai-style architecture with an exotic garden
- Quiet surroundings with bird-watching decks
- Perfect for those seeking a peaceful, creative escape
Coral Reefs & Cultural Beats: Unique Caribbean Experiences
- Snorkeling Just Offshore: No boat needed to explore coral reefs
- Sloth & Dolphin Watching: Popular wildlife sightings
- Cooking Classes: Learn to make rice and beans or plantain tarts
- Live Music Nights: Calypso, reggae, and Afro-Caribbean rhythms
- Cocoa & Chocolate Tours: Visit organic farms and artisanal chocolatiers
- Cayuco River Trips: Paddle in traditional dugout canoes
Timing the Caribbean Experience
- Caribbean Dry Season: Best months are September and October
- Turtle Nesting: March to July for leatherback turtles
- Limón Carnival: Vibrant parades and dance in October
- Snorkeling Visibility: Best during dry season with calm seas
- Rainy Season Tips: Mornings are often clear; pack light waterproof gear
Living Like a Local: Caribbean Insights
- Cultural Respect: Embrace the Afro-Caribbean customs of Limón province
- Local Markets: Buy plantains, breadfruit, and handmade crafts in nearby Puerto Viejo
- Bikes Over Cars: Rent a bicycle for a truly local experience
- Laid-back Lifestyle: Be patient; life flows slower here
Your Caribbean Questions Answered
- How to get to Punta Uva from San José? Shuttles to Puerto Viejo, which is adjacent to Punta Uva
- What makes it unique? Afro-Caribbean culture, turquoise waters, and jungle beaches
- Is it safe to swim/snorkel solo? Yes, but stay within marked safe zones
- How’s the weather? Hot and humid year-round with a unique dry spell in fall
- Must-try dishes? Rice & beans with coconut, rondon soup, patacones
Embracing Caribbean Rhythms: Visitor Essentials
- Transport Tips: Public buses are available; car and bicycle rentals offer flexibility
- Insect & Rain Protection: Bring repellent and ponchos
- National Park Visits: Book guided tours to Manzanillo and Cahuita parks for respectful interaction
- Souvenirs: Handmade jewelry, wooden art, cacao, and spices
- Travel Light, Live Light: Let go of schedules and enjoy the pura vida Caribbean-style
Ready to plan your trip? Connect with us if you have any questions!
