Cahuita, once the most developed town on Costa Rica’s South Caribbean coast, has since been surpassed in size and activity by Puerto Viejo. However, it proudly retains its authentic Caribbean charm, with deep cultural ties to calypso music and traditional Caribbean cuisine. Unlike the more international feel of Puerto Viejo, Cahuita offers a laid-back atmosphere steeped in local heritage and natural beauty.

The town is also home to the main entrance of Cahuita National Park - (2025 Park Guide), a coastal gem featuring pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and lush tropical landscapes. The town’s infrastructure reflects its character as a laid-back Caribbean community, focusing on essential services while preserving its natural charm. Residents and visitors will find practical amenities, including a well-stocked - brand-new Super Negro grocery store, local small convenience stores "pulperías" that embody the town's spirit, and various small businesses. Upon entering Cahuita, you'll come across a bank with ATM services, ensuring convenience in this relaxed atmosphere. Simple yet functional, the infrastructure supports both residents and tourists. Whether you’re visiting or considering making Cahuita your home, this vibrant community offers tranquil living, cultural richness, and breathtaking surroundings—this is the essence of "The Cahuita Experience."

Here are the topics we will cover:

• Is Cahuita safe?

• Weather in Cahuita

• Cahuita beaches 

• Cahuita tours

• Cahuita restaurants

• Travel from Puerto Viejo

• Cahuita National Park

• Cahuita real estate

Is Cahuita Safe?

Cahuita, like many destinations on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, has undergone a remarkable transformation in how it’s perceived by both tourists and locals. For years, the region carried an undeserved stigma of being unsafe—a notion those of us who live here dismissed, even appreciating how it helped preserve the area's tranquility and limit overdevelopment. Today, Cahuita and nearby towns like Puerto Viejo have blossomed into vibrant, welcoming communities, attracting expats and visitors alike as their charm and beauty become better known.

While Cahuita is generally safe, taking simple precautions can enhance your experience. Lock your car, don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach, and avoid walking alone on unlit roads at night. With a little mindfulness, you can immerse yourself in the relaxed pace of life and natural splendor that make Cahuita so special.

What is the weather in Cahuita like?

Cahuita enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round, with temperatures typically ranging between 75°F and 85°F (24°C to 29°C). The area experiences two rainy seasons: May to June and November to December, though brief afternoon showers are common at other times. Dry spells from February to April and September to October make these months ideal for sunny beach days. The lush green environment ensures Cahuita remains a haven for nature lovers regardless of the season.

What are Cahuita beaches like?

Cahuita is famous for Cahuita National Park and  its pristine beaches, each offering a unique experience:

• Playa Blanca: Located in Cahuita National Park, this beach features powdery white sand and calm turquoise waters, ideal for snorkeling and spotting marine life.

• Playa Negra: Known for its volcanic black sand, this beach is perfect for relaxing walks and swimming. The Reggae Bar in Playa Negra is a Cahuita Landmark. It’s a fun spot for drinks and gorgeous views of the beach. Fun vibe and often live music.

• Both beaches are less crowded than their counterparts in Puerto Viejo, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful escape with the exception of Cahuita National Park on weekends.

What Cahuita tours should I book?

Book excursion tours from your home base in Cahuita, where you have many options to choose from. Your first decision is whether to explore Cahuita National Park with a tour guide or on your own. If you enjoy learning about wildlife, local foliage, history, and want to be taken to the best spots in the park, consider booking a tour guide. However, if you prefer going at your own pace and relaxing on the beach, then skip the tour guide. For more information, check out the 2025 guide to Cahuita National Park blog.

Here is a site with multiple tour opportunities to browse through, along with customer ratings for each. You can’t go wrong with any of the following tours, so, pick one or pick all of them.

• Snorkeling in Cahuita National Park: Explore coral reefs teaming with vibrant marine life. A good snorkeling experience depends on the weather. Usually from Dec - Feb the seas are too rough for good visibility. Always ask about ocean visibility before booking.

• Hiking in Cahuita National Park: Spot sloths, howler monkeys, and exotic birds along scenic trails.

• Chocolate Tours: Learn about traditional cacao cultivation and indulge in local chocolate tastings.

• Cultural Experiences: Visit the BriBri Indigenous community to learn about their traditions.

• Horseback Tour: Ride on the beach, through the jungle to a real finca in the hills with Brigette’s horseback tours.

• Free Tropical Fruit Tastings: Stroll around the town and beaches, exploring neighborhoods to find various fruit trees. Pick and taste star-fruit, mangoes, and pipas (coconut water) when they are in season.

What Cahuita restaurants are good?

For a full list of dining options, we recommend checking out Trip Advisor. Customer ratings can provide valuable insights, and they’re a great starting point.

Here are some of our personal favorites:

• Cahuita Pizza - Open daily from 12 PM to 9:30 PM, this spot offers not only delicious pizza but also a charming atmosphere that makes every visit enjoyable.

• Ricky’s Place - Local Cuisine, Caribbean Bar, and a good, laid-back lunch spot right on Main Street just a couple blocks from the entrance to the park

• Delrita Patty - Best Patties on the Coast - A hidden gem introduced to us by a local, this place serves mouthwatering patties made from a recipe passed down through generations. Truly a must-try!

• Aroma Cafe – Open from 8 AM to 6 PM, Aroma is a cozy café perfect for breakfast or lunch. Known for its fluffy pancakes, fresh sourdough bread, refreshing smoothies, and flavorful coffee, it also boasts a fantastic vegetarian menu. Located near the village entrance on the road to the bus station, it’s a delightful spot to unwind, though the service may take a little longer than expected

How do I get from Cahuita to Puerto Viejo?

Traveling the 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Cahuita to Puerto Viejo is simple:

• Bus: Public buses run frequently and are the most affordable option, less than $5. The trip takes about 20 minutes. Here is the location of Cahuita bus station. Here is a bus schedule to Puerto Viejo and surrounding towns.

• Taxi or Shuttle: Private transportation offers convenience and flexibility for those traveling in groups. You can flag a taxi in most places in town, especially near the entrance of Cahuita National Park and the new grocery store. 

What is the Cahuita real estate Market like?

Cahuita Real Estate: A Growing Opportunity

Cahuita real estate has seen significant growth since 2021, offering diverse opportunities for buyers. Options range from charming Caribbean-style homes near the town center to newer, modern properties with air conditioning built on lots slightly farther from town but close to the beach. Click here to see all our Cahuita real estate listings.  Many buyers choose Cahuita over Puerto Viejo due to its quieter atmosphere, better infrastructure, and promising potential for business growth.

While Puerto Viejo has become a bustling town with higher real estate prices, Cahuita retains a more tranquil, "sleepy" charm and offers more for the dollar. You can find more information about the differences between Cahuita and Puerto Viejo here in this blog. Beachfront construction in the region is restricted to preserve the area’s natural beauty, with existing beachfront structures grandfathered in under older regulations. Current laws prohibit permanent buildings within 200 meters of the high-tide line, ensuring the preservation of beachside foliage.

Compared to Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, real estate prices in Cahuita remain more affordable, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking value and a lush jungle environment that benefits from year-round rainfall. You can explore the differences between Costa Rica’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts here in this blog.

Contact us here if you’d like more information about real estate.

bits of useful information

ATM location in Cahuita town.

BJ’s is the only laundry mat we know of in the town of Cahuita. It’s located 1 block from Aroma.

SIM & WhatsApp – In Cahuita, WhatsApp is the go-to tool for almost everything, so getting a local SIM card is essential. Many travel agencies don’t have staff on-site, but you’ll find a WhatsApp number posted on their doors for assistance. While Cahuita has basic facilities to handle essential needs, you’ll need to visit Puerto Viejo for more comprehensive amenities.

Hole-in-the-wall SIM card - A small counter near Coco's Bar where you can buy SIM cards and top up your credit. However, you'll need a Spanish-speaking local to help you activate the SIM card.

Final Thoughts:

"The Cahuita Experience" is a harmonious blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and a tranquil lifestyle. Whether you're soaking in the sun on its pristine beaches or considering making it your permanent home, Cahuita has something for everyone.

Feel free to contact us for more information about Cahuita real estate or for personalized recommendations to plan your visit.

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