A Locals guide to Cahuita Costa Rica. The Caribbean Side

 Guide to Cahuita, Costa Rica: A Local’s Perspective.

Where to Stay, Eat, and what to Do

When my family moved to Cahuita in 2017, I was in third grade. Over the years, it’s grown and changed in some ways, but it still has the unique charm that made us fall in love with it. 

Now that Cahuita has become more popular with travelers from Europe, the U.S., and San José, I thought I’d share my personal guide to experiencing this special town.

Where to Stay

One of the great things about Cahuita is that finding a place to stay isn’t too hard. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for something a bit more luxurious, there’s an option for everyone.

Affordable Options

Here are a few spots that are easy on the wallet but still offer a great stay:

• Cabinas Tito

• Caribe Luna

• Los Tucanes

• Secret Garden Hotel

Upscale Options

If you’re in the mood to splurge, these are some of the fancier options:

• Atlantida Lodge

• Ciudad Perdida Ecolodge

When friends and family visit us, these are the places we usually recommend.

Things to Do

Explore Cahuita National Park

Cahuita’s wildlife was one of the main reasons my family decided to settle here. You don’t even have to leave town to spot animals like sloths, monkeys, iguanas, and toucans. But if you want the full nature experience, Cahuita National Park is the place to go.

The park has a six-mile trail that winds through the jungle along the shoreline. It’s one of my favorite places to walk, especially in the mornings when it’s quiet. Some of the animals you’ll see include:

• Howler monkeys (mono congos) and capuchin monkeys

• Two-toed and three-toed sloths

• Caimans (in the rivers)

• Basilisk lizards (the ones that can run on water!)

There’s also a beautiful white-sand beach inside the park where you can swim. It can get crowded on weekends and midday, so I recommend going early on weekdays if you want to have the trail and beach mostly to yourself.

Catch Waves at Playa Negra

If you’re into surfing (or want to try), Playa Negra is the place to go. It’s a black-sand beach with waves that are perfect for surfing most of the year. My brother and I head out to surf here every chance we get.

If you don’t have your own gear, there are a few places to rent surfboards—about $5 an hour or $20 for the day. And if you’re a beginner, I’d recommend taking a lesson from Silver Roots, a local surf instructor and a good friend of mine.

Where to Eat

Cahuita has some amazing spots to eat, especially if you’re into local Caribbean flavors and Costa Rican comida típica. Here are a few of my personal favorites:

• Soda Kawe – Great for a quick, affordable meal.

• Ragee Bar – A fun spot with good vibes and tasty food.

• Rita’s Patty – Known for their delicious patties.

• Ricky’s Bar – A local favorite for a casual meal.

For groceries, my family usually goes to the Shopping Center near the bus station and bank. It has a carnicería (butcher shop) and a small grocery store. We also shop at Super Negro, which has a bigger selection, including imported items.

If you’re looking for fresh bread or pastries, we always stop by Keith’s French Bakery. And the fruteria for a great selection of fruits and veggies. These are both located on the highway.

If you are looking to visit Cahuita I hope this guide will help you experience the town to its fullest.