Descubra un mundo donde la vibrante cultura se fusiona con la impresionante belleza natural. Cada comunidad del Pacífico Sur de Costa Rica ofrece algo único:
- Jacó: Un centro animado perfecto para surfistas e inversores que buscan oportunidades dinámicas.
- Manuel Antonio : Hogar de playas de clase mundial y emprendimientos ecoturísticos, ideal para quienes anhelan una vida de lujo u oportunidades comerciales sustentables.
- Ojochal : Un escape relajante celebrado por su excepcional escena culinaria, que atrae a expatriados y empresarios con un gusto por la serenidad y la gastronomía.
- Dominical : Un paraíso bohemio para entusiastas de la aventura e inversores con conciencia ecológica, con oportunidades en albergues ecológicos y emprendimientos sostenibles.
- Uvita : Famosa por su icónica playa “Cola de Ballena”, esta tranquila ciudad es un santuario para empresas enfocadas en el bienestar y alojamientos ecológicos.
Ya sea que esté buscando llamar hogar a este paraíso tropical o invertir en la próspera industria turística de Costa Rica, estas comunidades encarnan la verdadera esencia de Pura Vida.
Presentando nuestras comunidades del Pacífico Sur
Jacó, Manuel Antonio, Ojochal, Dominical y Uvita. Nuestra diversa región sur, lista para ser explorada.
Jacó
Históricamente, Jacó fue una especie de refugio escondido. Desde la época de Colón en 1502 hasta principios de la década de 1990, fue un lugar de lento desarrollo y el lugar secreto favorito de los ticos para una escapada relajante. A finales del siglo pasado, grupos turísticos canadienses descubrieron el pueblo. Luego llegaron los surfistas a las olas rompientes del Pacífico. Pronto, los expatriados jubilados descubrieron las ventajas de Jacó. El pueblo crecía, pero sin grandes recursos que lo impulsarán.
Finalmente, William Royster navegó en su yate privado hacia la Bahía de Herradura. Vio el enorme potencial de la hermosa propiedad frente al mar en Costa Rica. Tras el terrible terremoto de 1991, adquirió 445 hectáreas de terreno alrededor de la Bahía de Herradura, justo al norte de Jacó. Su visión de futuro creó el Plan Maestro del Resort y Marina Los Sueños, que transformaría la zona circundante para mejor.
Manuel Antonio
Si solo tuvieras un día para disfrutar en Costa Rica, explorar Manuel Antonio podría ser tu mejor opción. Salvo un volcán, Manuel Antonio tiene casi todo lo que la gente viene a Costa Rica a experimentar. El paisaje, la vida silvestre y las playas son un microcosmos de lo mejor que Costa Rica tiene para ofrecer.
El Restaurante La Luna del Hotel Gaia es un restaurante de alta cocina. Disfrute de un servicio de primera clase desde su llegada, mientras un amable personal le lleva en un carrito de golf al restaurante al aire libre en la cima de la colina. Disfrute de una cena gourmet o venga entre las 16:00 y las 18:00 para disfrutar de un cóctel y tapas en el salón durante la hora feliz.
Ojochal
Ojochal es una de las comunidades de expatriados más antiguas y grandes, con un auténtico ambiente internacional. Famosa por sus excelentes restaurantes y sus amplias casas en la ladera con magníficas vistas al mar, esta ciudad cuenta con una sólida comunidad norteamericana. Justo al sur de la zona se encuentra un hospital de 80,000 pies cuadrados. La zona sur tiene estrictas leyes de zonificación que prohíben la construcción de rascacielos. Además, aquí encontrará más animales, plantas y aves de los bosques de tierras bajas que en cualquier otro lugar. Al ser una zona menos turística, esta región tiene menos delincuencia que la mayoría de las demás. Las desventajas son que esta zona está a unas 3 horas en coche del aeropuerto internacional más cercano y hay menos vida nocturna que en cualquier otra región, excepto la del Lago Arenal.
El singular pueblo de Ojochal se encuentra en la costa centro-sur del Pacífico de Costa Rica, a aproximadamente 30 minutos al sur de Dominical, a 15 minutos de Uvita y a 30 minutos al norte de Palmar Norte. Ojochal es un pueblo cálido y acogedor, con una variedad de hoteles, restaurantes, bares y otras actividades. Conocida como la “capital culinaria” de Costa Rica, ¡sus restaurantes son excepcionales!
Jacó
Los Sueños, Jacó: Un modelo de desarrollo sostenible y éxito económico en Costa Rica
Cooperating with the national government to create a concept that was ecologically feasible while maintaining economic strength, the Los Sueños project was designated as a program of national interest. The Costa Rican first Marina Law was enacted based on the principles of Royster’s planning group. While planning for the total project commenced, the staff began a reforestation program that reclaimed 200 acres of the forest that had been destroyed by vigorous cattle farming, bringing back many displaced native species of wildlife.
The Los Sueños project included 550 luxury residences, and work continues on 450 more, a large 200-slip marina, and a luxury resort hotel, in addition to ongoing reforestation work. The project also includes the 6,700-yard, executive-level golf course, considered one of the best of Costa Rica’s 12 courses. The whole development has drawn local residents into the construction efforts, thereby providing jobs and income. The marina has attracted not only private boaters and fishermen, but also entrepreneurs who provide bill fishery cruises for vacationers.
Since 2001, the growing project has gotten the attention of entrepreneurs and hotel and attraction developers, and Jacó has become the premier beach resort in Costa Rica. As vacation and tourist attractions have profitably increased, so too has the permanent residency of both the town and surrounding areas, and housing options range from the luxury accommodation of Los Sueños to moderately priced choices for all income levels.
Jacó: A Versatile Retirement Haven with Ideal Climate and Healthcare Facilities
No one place can tick each item on your retirement wish list, but Jacó comes very close. This city offers everything from laid-back, dozing solitude to partying into the wee hours, all enjoyed in a “bright lights” town setting, a cool beach, or in the wilds of eco-friendly natural areas. Then, if you want big-city excitement, Costa Rica’s capital and largest city is less than an hour away.
At sea level on the Pacific coast, the warmth and tropical humidity are ameliorated by the pleasant Pacific breezes. Daytime temperatures range between 75 F and 90 F, and nighttime temperatures stay between 75 F and 79 F. There are two seasons, with temperatures remaining the same. The dry season lasts from December to late April, and the rainy season is May through November.
Another big concern for retirees is medical care, and Jacó has you covered. Located in the middle of town is the CAJA Ebais. CAJA is the acronym of the government-backed healthcare system, and Ebais is the local clinic with pharmacy services. Hospital care and specialist services are available in San José at one of the six hospitals. There are also private doctors and clinics in town if you prefer their care over the government system. The private medical community generally accepts the insurance provided by several different companies.
Jacó: A Shopper’s Paradise and Outdoor Haven
Shopping in Jacó is a fun experience. Basic necessities, such as food and clothing, are provided by many stores, including the top Costa Rican supermarkets, and clothing and accessory stores range from specialized independents to chains that are well represented in town. There is also an outstanding weekly feria, or farmers’ market, selling locally grown and produced fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood, and all the highest quality produce.
The first word that comes to mind when you decide to live in Jacó is “outdoors.” You have the beach for swimming, surfing, lounging, and billfishing from either the shore or a fishing boat, and, in town, many open-air stores, such as the Jacó Walk, and eateries of all types allow you to enjoy the serenity of the Pacific.
Jacó: Embrace Nature, Culture, and Safety in Costa Rica’s Vibrant Coastal Gem
Stunning natural and ecological sites are within less than an hour’s drive, such as four national parks. With a cup of Costa Rica’s finest brew, you can extend your day trip to see a half dozen more.
Dining and entertaining fit right into the party atmosphere all around you. While the 90-mph nightlife may not be your thing, relaxing, open-air dining on a warm, balmy evening with friends, chatting as you listen to the waves breaking across the beach, may just fit the bill.
Socially, you can fit into many facets of a friendly and peaceful community. There is an active and welcoming expat group, as well as conversant ticos who are as interested in getting to know you, as much as you are curious about them.
Safety in this tourist town is not a serious issue. First, the country, in general, is very safe, rated number one in peacefulness out of 12 Central American and Caribbean nations, and number 23 out of 163 worldwide. Jacó’s criminal occurrences revolve around petty crimes, so taking precautions like not flashing a lot of cash and keeping cars locked are advised.
Manuel Antonio
Culinary Adventures in Manuel Antonio: A Flavorful Journey from Falafel to Billfish Sports Bar
If you’re looking for Middle Eastern food, you will be pleasantly surprised to find authentic choices at the Falafel Bar. Choose delicious falafel with hummus and tahini, or shawarma and kabobs! Down on the town’s main beach, Playa Espadilla, stroll into the Buena Vista Beach Club Bar & Grill and grab a table on the sand to watch the surfers while you sip a rum and tonic. They’re open for three meals a day.
Pizza lovers can hit El Wagon for a taste of the locals’ favorite. Try their Caprichosa with prosciutto, salami, artichokes, and ham for about $14. Next door is the famous El Avion, where one of the Iran-Contra supply planes that flew contraband into Nicaragua has been repurposed into the focal point and bar. It’s a great family restaurant, and you can even rent a studio apartment just below it!
Emilio’s is another spot for ocean and jungle viewing. They feature exquisite breakfasts and lunches, with eggs Benedict under $8 and brioche French toast, plus an array of homemade baked goods and rich coffee. Café Agua Azul is an upstairs, open-air restaurant with a combination of great gringo and “tico” food at reasonable prices. The view is unforgettable!
El Patio de Café Milagro features live music from local musicians Monday through Saturday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., as well as a delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. If you’re missing your hometown sports bar, you can catch up on all the action at Billfish Sports Bar and Lounge. You can also play pool, foosball, or wrestle with their life-sized Jenga set!
Manuel Antonio: A Paradise of Entertainment and Wildlife Wonder
In the evening, a fun place to chat with local expats is Dos Locos. You can usually find them swapping yarns over a cold Imperial beer and good Mexican chow. Live music appears there Wednesday nights and Saturdays at noon. You can also play trivia at Dos Locos on Thursday evenings. If you need to get your dance groove on, grab a cab and head down the hill to Quepos. The Cuban Republik Disco Lounge rocks hard into the wee hours there!
And now, the real reason over 150,000 people from around the world make their way to Manuel Antonio every year: the park! Even along the busy main trail through the park, you’ll still see a variety of sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds at every turn. The park is open every day but Tuesday. If you’ve enjoyed a visit to the park in the past, you’ll be pleased with the changes made there recently.
First, you buy your tickets online at the SINAC government website. For foreigners, adult tickets are $18, and children two to 12 years old are $5.75, plus the national 13% tax. Holidays and the dry (tourist) season from December to April will see the largest crowds at the park. May, June, or July are less crowded, and the rains usually don’t begin until early afternoon then, if at all.
As the park only allows 1,500 people inside at a time, it’s important to plan well. Of course, as the animals feed at sunrise and sunset, an early arrival will offer the best chance of seeing the most critters. It is open from 7 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Discovering Tranquility: Navigating Manuel Antonio’s Expansive Park and Parking Tips
The overall vibe of this beach town is laid back and family friendly. Retirees are attracted to this area for its many amenities, including its proximity to excellent health care, beautiful beaches, terrific restaurants, golf, boating, and exploring all the wonders of Costa Rica. Playa Potrero has great lodging and restaurants. The most respected boutique hotel on this bay is the Bahía Del Sol, situated roughly in the middle of the bay. Bahía Del Sol is a favorite among tourists and locals alike, as many expats in the area come for lunch, for a drink, or to enjoy the pool during the day.
Directly south of the Bahia Del Sol is the Costa Rica Sailing Center, which offers beach goers great food, a full bar, pool, and access to sail boats, catamarans, paddle boards, and kayaks. The Sailing Center offers fresh grilled seafood and live music to their patrons. They also offer a yearly membership that gives their members discounts on boat and equipment rentals, and also food and drink discounts. You can also book your scuba diving from this location.
Manuel Antonio: A Nature Lover’s Paradise – Adventure, Wildlife, and Coastal Bliss
For environmental reasons, food is not permitted in the park, but sodas and water are. There are cafes available right outside the gates. Once inside the park, wide trails branch off from the main trail, each offering a slightly different combination of terrain and wildlife. At the end of the main trail, Playa Manuel Antonio is spectacular, with calm, blue-green waters where you can snorkel (if you bring your gear). Modern bath houses are available for a shower and a change of clothes. Keep an eye on your things, as the white-face monkeys and racoons are very accomplished thieves!
There are plenty of great things to do besides enjoy the park. There are a total of five beaches, all with slightly different activities to offer. You can learn to surf at Playa Espadilla. The Damas Island Estuary boat or kayaking tour is only a 15-minute drive from Quepos, and features a unique ecosystem of monkeys, sloths, snakes, and crocodiles! A short trip from Manuel Antonio to Marina Pez Vela in Quepos will let you charter a boat for world-class bill fishing, or inshore angling for grouper and snapper. Another option is to take a tour on one of the big catamarans for a breathtaking view of the cliffs and rocks along the shoreline, plus snorkeling and waterslides!
Ojochal
Ojochal: Your Serene Haven of Tropical Solitude and Natural Beauty
The town of Ojochal and its surrounding beaches provide solitude and the ideal setting for some rest and relaxation. Lush tropical forests melt into the sandy shores of the Pacific for tropical postcard scenery. Due to their location, these beaches are far less developed and visited than the more popular destinations.
Basic amenities and services are provided in the small authentic Costa Rican town of Ojochal. The slow pace hasn’t been affected by tourism yet, making this place a great ‘off the beaten track’ destination. Playa Tortuga, or Ojochal as it is known by the locals, is a clean strip of beach loved by Ticos and foreigners alike. The town of Ojochal runs along the Balso River, sits off the coast a little ways, protected by mountainous forest, the perfect spot from which to access the stunning coastline.
Dominical
Surfer’s Paradise: Dominical, Costa Rica
The town of Ojochal and its surrounding beaches provide solitude and the ideal setting for some rest and relaxation. Lush tropical forests melt into the sandy shores of the Pacific for tropical postcard scenery. Due to their location, these beaches are far less developed and visited than the more popular destinations.
Basic amenities and services are provided in the small authentic Costa Rican town of Ojochal. The slow pace hasn’t been affected by tourism yet, making this place a great ‘off the beaten track’ destination. Playa Tortuga, or Ojochal as it is known by the locals, is a clean strip of beach loved by Ticos and foreigners alike. The town of Ojochal runs along the Balso River, sits off the coast a little ways, protected by mountainous forest, the perfect spot from which to access the stunning coastline.
Waterfall Wonders: Exploring Pristine Costa Rica
There are unlimited options for adventure and sightseeing in this pristine area of Costa Rica. Several spectacular jungle waterfalls are found here. Pozo Azul is a 30-foot waterfall close to the village of Dominicalito. The Barú River Falls, also known as Santo Cristo or Nauyaca Falls, is located in the mountains above Dominical. This series of waterfalls is considered one of the most picturesque in Costa Rica, if not all of Central America. It cascades down into a huge natural pool that is 20 feet deep and perfect for swimming. The surrounding area is verdant rainforest with abundant wildlife. The mountains between Dominical and Ojochal are filled with dozens of smaller waterfalls. The hills behind Dominical and south into Escaleras have an endless ocean view framed by thick rainforest that most people can only dream about.
Uvita
Uvita: Where Nature Meets Convenience
Uvita originated as a small fishing village that was quite difficult to access. However, over the years the town has developed a solid infrastructure and is now accessible by a paved highway from Quepos.
The town today remains small, surrounded by nature with expat conveniences. There is a an organic farmer’s market every Saturday, several local banks, supermarkets, appliance stores, pharmacies, local and expat owned restaurants, a recreation center, and even a local art gallery. Expats come from all over the world and lend an international flavor with Italian pizzerias and Asian fusion among local Costa Rican fare.
A local free and government-ran medical clinic is in the center of town, and there are several doctors and dentists on call for emergencies 24 hours per day. Just twenty minutes outside of Uvita is a modern hospital well equipped for emergencies with a multilingual staff and twenty-three departments including pediatrics, neurology, and gynecology.
Paradise Unveiled: Uvita’s Magnificent Beach
The Beach
La playa de arena blanca de Uvita, dentro del Parque Nacional Marina Ballena, es considerada una de las más hermosas de Costa Rica. Está rodeada por el tranquilo Océano Pacífico, ideal para nadar y practicar snorkel. El área está protegida y rodeada de hermosos árboles selváticos, flores y animales tropicales como colibríes, tucanes, monos, perezosos y lagartijas.
Una experiencia favorita entre muchos visitantes y residentes es caminar por la famosa Punta Uvita, también llamada Cola de Ballena. Con la marea baja, se descubre un banco de arena que se extiende mar adentro.
De julio a enero, es posible avistar tortugas golfinas llegando a la costa para desovar dentro del parque nacional. El parque también alberga numerosos delfines, fáciles de avistar durante todo el año. De diciembre a abril, las ballenas jorobadas migran a lo largo de la costa.
Uvita, El Centro de Actividades
Cascadas
Uvita cuenta con numerosas cascadas gracias a las montañas y ríos que la rodean, y estas cascadas son excelentes lugares para nadar a la sombra, resguardados del sol. La más popular es la Cascada Uvita, de fácil acceso desde el pueblo y con una entrada de solo $1.
Snorkel y buceo
La Isla del Caño, una reserva biológica ubicada a una hora en bote desde Uvita, ofrece espectaculares oportunidades de buceo y snorkel. Alrededor de la isla se encuentran quince especies de arrecifes de coral con grandes bancos de peces, tortugas marinas, mantarrayas, anguilas y tiburones de arrecife de aleta blanca. El buceo aquí es considerado el segundo mejor después de la famosa Isla del Coco.
Kayak/SUP
Varias empresas en Uvita ofrecen tours en kayak y paddle surf por el parque nacional para explorar los manglares, los arrecifes de coral y los ríos de la selva. Es común avistar animales como delfines, tortugas, monos y tucanes. También se pueden alquilar kayaks y tablas de paddle surf para tours autoguiados.
Senderismo
La ubicación de Uvita dentro de un parque nacional facilita la realización de numerosas caminatas de un día por los manglares y la selva tropical. La observación de aves es muy popular, donde se pueden avistar tucanes, búhos, águilas pescadoras, pájaros carpinteros, loros y más, con o sin guía. Las caminatas nocturnas guiadas ofrecen a los participantes la oportunidad de observar algunos de los animales nocturnos de la selva, como osos hormigueros y murciélagos.
