Cahuita beach. Credit: Wikimedia Creative Commons license

The Puerto Limon cruise port in Costa Rica is more known for its ecotourism excursions than beaches. But it does have some good beaches within driving distance.

Most of the beaches are found south of Puerto Limon along Route 36. Cahuita is closest with several smaller beaches about 28 miles from the cruise port. The better known beaches are found near the popular coastal town of Puerto Viejo about 40 to 45 miles south of the port.

Puerto Limon visitors might want to plan on combining a visit to the town and the beaches in one trip.

The beaches of Cahuita National Park near the town of Cahuita are a veritable tropical paradise with their white sand, warm water, coral reefs, and rainforests. Playa Blanca or White Beach is the best known beach there.

Ideal for beach-combing and quiet walks, Playa Negra or Black Beach is a long, mostly deserted stretch of sand that links Cahuita with Puerto Viejo.

Playa Cocles is about 40 miles south of Puerto Limon via Route 36. The estimated travel time is an hour to an hour and 15 minutes.

The breaks are close to the beach, can be left or right and are nice and consistent. A good choice for beginning and intermediate surfers and for the experts who need a break from the “Salsa Brava”. Surfers need to be wary of currents in this area.

Puerto Viejo Beach; ©Costa Rica Tourism Board

Playa Punta Uva is another three miles south of Playa Cocles. The calm, warm waters of Punta Uva beach are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Playa Manzanillo is three more miles south of Playa Punta Uva.

Surfers will find a challenge at Salsa Brava near Puerto Viejo. It is often called the most powerful wave in Costa Rica, this Hawaiian style wave comes out of deep water to break over a shallow reef. For experts only!

Playa Chiquita is a beautiful, hidden stretch of sand.