Playa Chiquita
Beach · Caribbean Coast · hidden gem
A string of small coves between Cocles and Punta Uva, with jungle hanging over the sand and coral-rimmed tide pools.
- Cost
- Free
- Time there
- 1.5 h
- Best time
- morning
- Kids
- 6 / 10
- View
- 7 / 10
- Crowds
- 3 / 10
- Swimming
- 6 / 10
- Effort
- 1 / 10
- Location
- 9.6414, -82.7113 — Google Maps
Tip
Look for the little footpaths off the main road and come at low tide to explore the pools.
Be careful
Sharp coral and sea urchins in the shallows: wear water shoes.
Places nearby
- CHOCORARTFood & CoffeeChocolate factory and cacao farm on the Playa Chiquita road south of Puerto Viejo, rated 4.9 on Google and 4.8 on Tripadvisor.
- Spicy CoconutFood & CoffeeSmall Caribbean-style house in the Cocles jungle with an ocean view and a sloth-hosting almendro tree, serving poke bowls, ceviche and grilled meats with cocktails, plus a little shop.
- Jaguar Rescue CenterParks & Wildlife · takes 1.5 h–2 h · from $29Wildlife rescue center on the southern Caribbean coast where visitors take guided tours to learn about rehabilitated sloths, monkeys and other animals.
- Caribe HorseParks & Wildlife · from $70Family-run stable since 2007 offering ethical horseback rides on rescued horses along the beaches and rainforest trails around Puerto Viejo, from a 1.5-hour beginner ride to full days.
- Restaurante SelvinFood & CoffeeSmall family restaurant on the road to Punta Uva, known for coconut-rice-and-beans plates and the local rondón soup, with a lively atmosphere in the evening.
- Hotel Aguas ClarasStaysBoutique hotel of brightly painted Caribbean-style bungalows right on Playa Chiquita, south of Puerto Viejo.
Sources: OpenStreetMap way/458862622 · https://capturetheatlas.com/puerto-viejo-costa-rica/ · https://www.kimkim.com/c/ultimate-guide-to-puerto-viejos-beaches · https://www.openstreetmap.org/way/458862622