best realtors in Puerto Viejo — **Hello from Meg & Raina**

As long-time residents of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast and the proud owners of My Puerto Viejo Realtor, we’re passionate about helping others discover this incredible corner of the world. We’ve put together a handy guide of 20 Things to Know Before visiting Cahuita National Park, filled with common questions and advice to make your visit unforgettable. Let’s dive in.

1. What’s so special about Cahuita National Park?

We think Cahuita’s National Park is a special place on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast - and it’s one of our favorite places to recommend. We often hear feedback from visiting friends and clients that they see more wildlife here in the Caribbean than anywhere else in Costa Rica. This makes us proud to live in an area that has been able to preserve the jungle and protect the animals. This park offers something for everyone—pristine white-sand beaches, abundant wildlife, and a lush coastal hiking trail that winds through vibrant tropical forests. It is one of the most spacious and least crowded National Parks in all of Costa Rica.

While the reef faces challenges from environmental impacts, guided snorkeling tours allow visitors to witness its underwater beauty responsibly. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a hiker, or someone seeking tranquil coastal views, Cahuita National Park can be an unforgettable experience for the whole family, and we wholeheartedly recommend you take the time to visit.

2. Where is Cahuita National Park?

The park is nestled on Costa Rica's stunning Caribbean coast in the Limón province, just outside the peaceful town of Cahuita. Only a 20-minute drive north of Puerto Viejo, it’s a perfect day trip for those exploring the area. Unlike the busier Puerto Viejo, Cahuita offers a quieter village vibe with a mix of locals, expats, and a few charming accommodations and restaurants. Visitors often stay here to enjoy yoga classes, relax, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty before heading to the park.

3. When is the Best Time to Visit Cahuita National Park?

Please note - typical weather patterns have changed greatly in the past couple of years, where we will have a lot of rain in the dry season and vice versa. The best weather App we have found is this Accuweather App, even so, the Caribbean is notorious for being unpredictable with rain one moment and sun the next.

If you prefer fewer crowds and aren’t snorkeling, consider the rainy season (May to early November) for a quieter experience. Arriving early (around 8 am) ensures you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy the park’s serene beauty.

Generally, the best times to visit are:

February to April – Clearer water for snorkeling
August to October – Sunny, calm Caribbean days

Beach at Cahuita National Park — Locals enjoying Playa Blanca outside Cahuita National Park.

4. What is the Park Entrance fee?

There are two entrances:

Kelly Creek (Cahuita Town Entrance)

Donation-based (typically $5 USD recommended)
No fixed fee
Card machine sometimes works, sometimes doesn’t
Cash is always safest

Puerto Vargas Entrance

Fixed fee: $5.65 USD (foreigners) / 1,130 colones (locals)
Cards accepted but unreliable
Quieter entrance with fewer crowds

If you love supporting conservation, especially of the delicate reef, donating a bit more helps keep the Park thriving.

5. Do You Need to Book Tickets to the Park in Advance?

Nope! Just show up. Unlike Costa Rica’s busiest parks, Cahuita’s Park operates with a relaxed, no-reservation system. Another reason we love it.

6. Where Are the Entrances to Cahuita National Park?

The park has two entrances:

Kelly Creek Cahuita Station Entrance:

Located in Cahuita town, Kelly Creek Station (Cahuita Town) is the most popular entrance.
No fixed fee, but a donation (around $5 USD) is highly encouraged.
You’ll find more tourists and beachgoers here, heading to nearby Playa Blanca.
Wildlife is often concentrated near the entrance, attracted by snacks from visitors.
Exiting here after starting at Puerto Vargas? Perfect for a celebratory drink!

Puerto Vargas Entrance:

Puerto Vargas Entrance is quieter, with fewer crowds—great for peaceful hikers.
Entry requires a $5.65 USD fee, though it’s worth every penny.
Dedicated bus stop for a bus back to Cahuita or Puerto Viejo
The boardwalk section of the trail (about 2 km/1.2 miles) is breathtaking.
Ending in Cahuita town means easy access to transport or a well-earned meal to celebrate your adventure.

The entrances are connected by an 8-kilometer (5-mile) coastal trail. A round trip covers 16 kilometers (10 miles), which can take an entire day. Many visitors hike one way and return by taxi for a more relaxed experience.

Start your day right, end it on a high note, and make the most of this spectacular park!

7. What are Cahuita National Park Hours?

Open daily: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Punta Cahuita closes at 2 PM, and rangers will guide visitors out so you have enough time to exit the park before closing.

Plan an early visit so you don’t feel rushed.

8. Is There Parking at Cahuita National Park?

Both entrances offer guarded parking lots for about 3,000 colones ($5.65 USD). Parking is safe, but we still recommend not leaving valuables in your vehicle—just in case.

9. How Long Is the Hike Through The National Park?

The full main trail is:

8 km (5 miles) one way
16 km (10 miles) round trip

Most of the trail is flat, shady, and easy, but rain can make some areas muddy. The boardwalk on the Puerto Vargas side is one of the prettiest parts of Parque Nacional Cahuita.

Wear comfortable shoes, and don’t worry if they get dirty—that’s part of the fun.

10. What Are the Tour Guide Options for Cahuita National Park?

You’ll see much more wildlife with a guide. Trusted local guides like Exploradores Tours or Marco’s Cahuita Tours offer amazing experiences, including snorkeling trips.

Guided tours range from $30 to $200 USD, depending on whether you include snorkeling, hiking, or both. If you’re choosing a snorkeling tour, ask about water conditions before booking.

11. Should You Hire a Guide to Explore the Park?

We personally recommend it. Guides are experts at spotting wildlife you’d walk right past—tiny frogs, camouflaged sloths, rare birds, and more. If you’re on a tight budget, exploring on your own is still excellent, but take your time and walk slowly.

12. How Long Does it Take to Explore Cahuita National Park?

Plan for at least 3–4 hours, though many visitors spend a full day hiking, swimming, and exploring. We’ve spent up to 5 hours inside and still didn’t want to leave.

13. What Wildlife Can You See in the National Park?

Cahuita National Park is one of the easiest places in the country to see wildlife. Because the jungle hugs the coastline, animals often hang out close to the trail.

Possible wildlife sightings include:

Two- and three-toed sloths
Howler monkeys and capuchins
Toucans and macaws
Poison dart frogs
Yellow pit vipers
Crocodiles, caimans, and lots of tropical fish

If this is your only national park visit in Costa Rica, booking a guide is the best way to make it unforgettable.

14. What Should I Bring for My Day in the Park?

Pack light, but bring:

Plenty of water
Reef-safe sunscreen
Bug spray
Cash
Swimsuit & towel
Lightweight rain jacket
Good walking shoes
Toilet paper & hand sanitizer
Snacks (keep them secure from raccoons!)

Important: Plastic bags are not allowed in the park. Staff may check your bag at the entrance.

15. Can You Snorkel in Cahuita National Park?

Yes! Cahuita is famous for its vibrant coral reef ecosystem. Snorkeling is permitted in designated areas and only with a guide. Tours often include gear rental and a guided swim, allowing you to see brain coral, elkhorn coral, French angelfish, queen angelfish, blue angelfish, sea cucumber, lobsters, tropical fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks.

For the protection of the reefs, snorkeling is only allowed with a guide

Guided Tours Only: Snorkeling on the reef is restricted to protect it. Costs range from $30 to $200 USD depending on the package. You can go here for multiple tour options.
Be sure to check and ask about sea conditions when booking your tour.

16. Can You Swim in Cahuita National Park?

Snorkeling is allowed only with a certified guide to protect the reef.

Expect to see:

Brain coral
Angelfish
Sea turtles
Reef sharks
Lobsters
Dozens of tropical fish species

Prices range from $30–$200 USD depending on the experience.

17. Is Cahuita National Park Suitable for Kids?

Absolutely. The trails are flat, shaded, and easy for young hikers. The beaches are calm, and there’s plenty of wildlife to keep kids excited. Just keep little ones close around monkeys and raccoons—they can be bold.

18. What Amenities Are Available in the Park?

Bathrooms at both entrances (bring toilet paper)

Picnic areas
Shaded resting spots
Water access near the beaches

There are no bathrooms on the trail, so plan accordingly.

And once you’re done exploring the national park, you may want to check out the other things to do in Cahuita with our Best Cahuita Experience (2025) blog.

Go have fun—this little slice of paradise is waiting for you!