The Caribbean coast can be divided into 2 very different types of environment. The North Coast is only reached by boat or airplane. This lowland rainforest looks like what most of us consider "jungle" and Tortuguero National Park and Barra del Colorado National Refuge are the highlights. The south Caribbean coast is rich with beautiful beaches and has the typical Caribbean flavor: very laid back. It is possible to drive from San Jose to the South Caribbean area of Puerto Viejo. Please note that this region has a higher incidence of crime than any other region of Costa Rica, so although it is accessible and wonderfully colorful, you should be more careful here.

Find out more...

• Find a hotel on the caribbean coast
  
• Learn about the lower caribbean beaches.
  
• 16 - Barra Colorado Wildlife Refuge
  18 - Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge
  19 - Cahuita National Park
  20 - Tortuguero National Park
• Find Other National Parks

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