Drake Bay

Drake Bay (Bahía Drake) is a remote, breathtakingly beautiful paradise located on the northern coast of the Osa Peninsula. Accessible largely by boat, it feels like a true castaway destination. Legend says Sir Francis Drake hid his treasure here in the 16th century, but today's treasure is entirely natural. Drake Bay is the premier base for taking boat tours into the Sirena Ranger Station of Corcovado National Park, as well as snorkeling and scuba diving excursions to the nearby Caño Island Biological Reserve, where manta rays, turtles, and dolphins thrive. The village of Agujitas serves as the main hub, but accommodations stretch along miles of rugged coastline, featuring some of Costa Rica's most exclusive eco-luxury lodges. Gastronomy is typically lodge-based, emphasizing fresh Pacific catch, tropical fruits, and high-end fusion cuisine utilizing local ingredients. Getting to Drake Bay is part of the adventure. Most visitors take a scenic boat taxi down the Sierpe River through dense mangroves to the ocean, though small domestic flights are also available. The dry season (December to April) is absolutely essential for a good experience, as the heavy rains of the green season can make ocean conditions rough and jungle trails muddy.

Nearby cities

Chacarita

Located on the Pacific coast, this town serves as a residential and secondary service center for the port city of Puntarenas.

Esparza

One of the oldest towns in Costa Rica, strategically located on the way to the Pacific coast.

Quepos

Quepos is a bustling harbor town famous for world-class sport fishing and acting as the dynamic gateway to nearby Manuel Antonio.

Ciudad Neily

The main commercial hub in the southern border region of Corredores, serving as a primary link for trade with Panama.

Jacó

A major beach destination on the central Pacific coast, world-famous for its surfing, nightlife, and proximity to San Jose.

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Boquete area / San Vito

A tranquil highland region near the Panama border, renowned for its Italian heritage, cool climate, and biodiversity.

Parrita

A town located between Jaco and Manuel Antonio, primarily serving as an agricultural center known for oil palm plantations.

Uvita

Known for the 'Whale Tail' rock formation and the Marino Ballena National Park, it is a key destination for whale watching and nature lov…

Ojochal

Ojochal is a culinary haven nestled in Costa Rica's southern Pacific jungle.

Dominical

Dominical is a laid-back South Pacific beach village known for consistent year-round waves, yoga culture, and its proximity to lush rainf…

Puerto Jiménez

Puerto Jiménez is the main town on the Osa Peninsula, offering rustic charm and serving as the primary launching point for expeditions in…

Zancudo

Zancudo is a tranquil beach town offering one of the safest swimming beaches in Costa Rica, featuring miles of dark sand and stunning sun…

Pavones

Pavones is a remote surfer's paradise in the southern Pacific region of Costa Rica, famous for having one of the longest left-hand surf b…

Bejuco

A highly pristine, entirely Blue Flag-certified beach perfectly located on the Central Pacific coast.

Esterillos

A massively vast, highly pristine stretch of quiet beach on the Central Pacific coast, favored for entirely uncrowded surf.

History & landmarks

Yoga and Wellness Retreat

Costa Rica's yoga and wellness retreats combine tropical scenery with rest and mindfulness.

Boruca Mask Art

Exquisite hand-carved masks created by the Boruca people, traditionally used in the annual 'Dance of the Devils' festival.

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Puntarenas House of Culture

A cultural center in the former barracks of Puntarenas.

Puntarenas Pier

The long pier is a landmark of the port city of Puntarenas.

More places

Puerto Balboa (Golfito)

A small maritime terminal in the southern Pacific area.

Finca 6 Stone Spheres

An archaeological park showcasing the mysterious pre-Columbian stone spheres of Costa Rica.

Boruca Ancestral Lands

The homeland of the Boruca indigenous people, known for their vibrant masks and the traditional 'Dance of the Little Devils'.

Puerto Golfito

Historic port in the south of the country.

Puerto Quepos

Port for tourism and fishing on the Pacific.

Puerto Cocos (Cocos Island)

A protected anchorage on the remote Cocos Island.

Puerto Villas

A maritime terminal facility focused on handling specialized shipments and supporting regional port operations.

Puerto Caldera

The largest port on the country's Pacific coast.