Backpacker’s Guide to Puerto Viejo: Where to Stay, Eat & Party

If you’re backpacking through Costa Rica and searching for that perfect mix of Caribbean vibes, reggae beats, jungle adventures, and beachfront hostels, look no further than Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.

This small coastal town on Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean coast has become a must-visit backpacker destination, blending tropical beaches, Afro-Caribbean culture, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s impossible to leave.

🌿 Why Backpackers Love Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo moves to its own rhythm — slow, warm, and full of soul. Here you’ll find friendly locals, reggae music drifting from every bar, and endless beaches where time seems to stop.

Backpackers come for:
✅ The relaxed Caribbean atmosphere
✅ Budget hostels and surf-town community
✅ Beachfront bars and late-night reggae
✅ Delicious local food
✅ Surfing, snorkeling & jungle adventures

It’s one of those towns where you plan to stay two days and end up staying two weeks.

🏠 Where to Stay in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is built for travelers — you’ll find hostels, surf lodges, and jungle bungalows at every price point.

🔹 Budget Hostels (Social & Fun)

• Rocking J’s – Iconic among backpackers. Sleep in hammocks, meet travelers from around the world, and enjoy the beach vibe.

• Lulú’s Lodge & Hostel – Central location, clean, quiet at night, and friendly atmosphere.

🔹 Eco & Boutique Options

• Pagalú Hostel – Consistently ranked as one of the cleanest and most welcoming.

• Casa Moabi – Peaceful jungle bungalows near Playa Chiquita — great for nature lovers.

💡 Tip: Hostels fill fast during weekends and holidays. Book ahead — especially from December to April.

🍛 Where to Eat: Local Food & Cheap Eats

Puerto Viejo is the heart of Afro-Caribbean cuisine in Costa Rica, where flavors like coconut milk, plantains, and local spices define every meal.

🌮 Top Local Spots

• Soda Lidia’s Place – A true local favorite for Caribbean-style “rice & beans” and fish in coconut sauce.

• Bread & Chocolate – Legendary breakfasts and desserts. Try the brownies!

• De Gustibus Bakery – Cozy European-style café with great coffee and croissants.

• Tasty Waves Cantina – Surf vibes, tacos, happy hours, and live music near Playa Cocles.

💡 Budget Tip: Eat at local “sodas” — small family-run restaurants serving authentic meals for under $8.

🌊 What to Do in Puerto Viejo

There’s more to Puerto Viejo than beaches (though they’re amazing). Here are the top things to do:

• 🏄 Surf at Playa Cocles – Waves for all levels, with surf schools available.

• 🚴 Bike to Punta Uva & Manzanillo – The coastal ride is breathtaking. Bike rentals cost around $7–8/day.

• 🐒 Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center – Learn about wildlife conservation and meet rescued animals.

• 🏖️ Snorkel at Cahuita National Park – One of the best coral reef spots in Costa Rica.

• 🧘 Join Yoga or Wellness Classes – Many hostels offer daily sessions with sea views.

🎉 Where to Party in Puerto Viejo

The nightlife here is legendary — reggae, beach bonfires, and live music fill the air every night.

🔥 Top Nightlife Spots

• Johnny’s Place – Beachfront, always buzzing with reggae and dance.

• Hot Rocks – Great for cocktails and live music with a mixed crowd.

• Tasty Waves – Don’t miss Taco Tuesdays or their themed parties.

• Lazy Mon – Beach bar with live bands and beautiful ocean sunsets.

💡 Pro Tip: When bars close, follow the locals to beach bonfires — that’s where the real party continues.

🚲 Getting Around

Puerto Viejo is compact and easy to navigate:

• 🚲 Rent a bike for $6–8/day (the best way to explore!)

• 🚕 Taxis for short rides cost $5–10

• 🚌 Buses run daily from San José (MEPE Terminal) to Puerto Viejo — about 4.5 hours, ₡7,000 (~$12 USD)

💬 Final Thoughts

Puerto Viejo isn’t just a destination — it’s a feeling. 🌴

With its perfect blend of beach life, reggae rhythm, local culture, and adventurous spirit, this is a place that captures the soul of every backpacker. Come for a few days, stay for a few sunsets… and you’ll see why travelers keep coming back.