By Limon, the center of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, is a magical city filled with rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and diverse history. Unlike the rest of the country, Limon has its own Caribbean vibe, shaped by the culture and heritage of African and Jamaican immigrants. This vibrant place is a great choice for those looking to discover the lesser-known, yet exciting side of Costa Rica.
TIP: Puerto Limon cruise port half-day tour, including a visit to a banana plantation https://gyg.me/oyXl9lKu
History
Limon’s history dates back to the 16th century, when Christopher Columbus first landed here in 1502. The city’s economic boom began in the 19th century with the establishment of banana plantations and the construction of railroads, turning it into a significant trading hub. The labor needed for the railroad construction was mainly provided by Afro-Caribbean immigrants, whose descendants still live in the region, contributing to Limon’s multicultural atmosphere. The Caribbean lifestyle and musical culture are still strongly present today.
Top 10 Attractions in Limon
- Tortuguero National Park – One of Costa Rica’s most famous parks, it is one of the best places to witness the nesting of Costa Rican turtles. If you dream of seeing this natural phenomenon, Tortuguero should definitely be on your itinerary.
TIP: Tortuguero: Night Turtle Nesting Tour
- Cahuita National Park – This nature reserve is one of the most important in the area, and you must explore its pristine landscapes and diverse ecosystems. In the national park, you can take an 8-kilometer (5-mile) walk along a trail that runs along the entire coastline.
TIP: Puerto Limon: Sloth Lovers’ Shore Excursion at Cahuita Park
- Puerto Viejo – Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is one of Limón’s top tourist destinations. Though a small town, it has undeniable charm and a laid-back atmosphere that welcomes visitors with open arms. The town is characterized by strong Caribbean and Jamaican influences, noticeable as soon as you step onto its colorful streets. Reggae music, artisan stalls, and beachfront bars attract visitors from around the world. Additionally, the food here stands out from other regions of the country, so I encourage you to try some typical Costa Rican dishes from this region.
- Veragua Rainforest Research Center – A visitor-friendly rainforest that showcases the region’s wildlife and ecological significance. Veragua Rainforest is a private nature reserve covering 77 hectares (190 acres), offering a full day of exploring its flora and fauna. You can even take a cable car ride that passes through trees over 300 years old. The view is breathtaking, and you’ll see the Talamanca Mountains, the Caribbean Sea, and the rainforest. The reserve also features several trails, as well as facilities like an insect museum, butterfly house, frog house, and a biological research station.
TIP: Puerto Limon: Veragua Rainforest and Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour
- Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge – A pristine, biodiversity-rich area home to rare animal species, such as jaguars. Manzanillo is another charming town in Limón, Costa Rica. Beyond its fishing culture and scenic landscape, the town enjoys a privileged location in a protected area with 15 kilometers (9 miles) of spectacular beach. The Gandoca National Refuge is undoubtedly one of the best attractions in Manzanillo.
- Playa Bonita – One of Limon’s most popular beaches, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
- Banana Plantations – The backbone of Limon’s economy. Several plantations are open to visitors, offering insight into the banana-growing process. Read more about it here: Banana plantations in Costa Rica- The Kingdom of Tropical fruit
- Limon City Center – Puerto Limón is one of the oldest cities in the country. Although the port was officially founded in 1870, it has been operational for hundreds of years and remains a crucial Caribbean hub and the main cruise port in Costa Rica. Walk into the old town, where the architecture reflects the Afro-Caribbean influence, as well as the passage of time and the many earthquakes that have shaken the region. Despite this, the structure retains a unique and irreplaceable charm. I also recommend visiting the Central Market, a special place in Limón, where you can get a glimpse of local life. Other highlights include Vargas Park, home to a neoclassical pavilion overlooking the sea, and the Sacred Heart Cathedral.
TIP: Puerto Limon: City Tour and Cahuita National Park
- Cocles Beach – A great spot for surfers, with a beautiful coastline and crystal-clear water.
- Isla Uvita – A small but enchanting island, accessible by boat or kayak, it’s the perfect place for a peaceful picnic or snorkeling.
Limon’s standout feature is its Caribbean culture and cuisine, which you won’t experience as intensely anywhere else in the country. The local cuisine often incorporates coconut milk, spicy dishes, and seafood. Unique dishes like „rice and beans” (coconut-flavored rice and beans) and „rondón” (coconut fish soup) are especially popular. Limon is also known for the best Caribbean spiced coffee and tea, grown on local plantations.
Coffee, Tea, and Other Specialties
While coffee is famous throughout Costa Rica, Limon’s Caribbean-spiced coffee is special, often flavored with coconut cream or cinnamon. The local teas are also exciting, like the guava leaf tea, which is a refreshing and healthy alternative. Additionally, the region grows many exotic fruits, such as soursop and passion fruit, which are used to make local drinks. You can learn more about Costa Rican coffee by reading our blog:
Limon is Costa Rica’s hidden gem, where Caribbean culture and stunning nature meet. Its rich history, diverse attractions, and local gastronomy offer experiences that you won’t find elsewhere in the country. If you’re looking for a relaxed trip filled with cultural and natural wonders, Limon is the perfect choice.