Parque nacional Cahuita
White sand, coral reefs, and sloths hanging aroundThis protected coastal area on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast has white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and trails through rainforest where sloths and howler monkeys live.
Parque Nacional Cahuita spans 23,290 hectares of marine area and 1,102 hectares of land along Costa Rica's Caribbean coast. You can swim near barracudas and angelfish in the coral reefs, watch howler monkeys swing through the forest canopy, or walk along white-sand beaches where green iguanas bask in the sun. The park's trails wind through coastal forest where you might spot three-toed sloths, toucans, and white-faced capuchin monkeys.
Marine Life at Cahuita's Coral Reef
The coral reefs stretch along Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, forming the country's largest reef system. When you snorkel in the clear waters, you'll see sea cucumbers, manta rays, and three species of sharks swimming among 35 different coral species. The reef ecosystem supports hundreds of mollusks and crustaceans. To protect the marine environment, you must join a certified guide for snorkeling activities.
Wildlife Viewing Along Forest Trails
Morning walks on the park's forest paths often lead to wildlife encounters. Mantled howler monkeys call from the treetops, while white-faced capuchins move through the branches below. Two-toed sloths rest in cecropia trees, and coatis search the ground for food. Look for green ibises, keel-billed toucans, and several heron species near the coastline. Guides carry telescopes and binoculars during tours to help you spot animals in the canopy and undergrowth.
Hiking Routes and Beaches
Walk the main 8.3-kilometer coastal trail from Kelly Creek to Puerto Vargas, passing through Punta Cahuita. The last 2,100 meters between Punta Cahuita and Puerto Vargas take you through a rare Sangrillo tree grove. You can swim in designated areas with calm waters, while other beach sections remain closed due to strong currents.
Guided Activities and Tours
Local naturalists lead specialized tours throughout the park. Morning wildlife walks ($30 USD per person, 3-4 hours) focus on finding and identifying animals. During snorkeling tours ($40 USD), guides teach proper reef etiquette and help identify marine species. Night tours ($45 USD) search for nocturnal animals like kinkajous and opossums. Full-day combination tours ($70 USD) include both snorkeling and hiking activities.
Practical Information
Enter the park through Playa Blanca or Puerto Vargas between 7 AM and 4 PM daily. International visitors pay $4 USD at Puerto Vargas, while Costa Rican residents pay 1,300 colones. The Playa Blanca entrance accepts donations. February through April typically has the calmest sea conditions for water activities. Remember to bring water, sun protection, and insect repellent.
