Pacific vs Caribbean: which Costa Rica coast is better

Pacific vs Caribbean: which Costa Rica coast is better

Costa Rica Beaches

Image by kywaycr.com

 

*Vacation Mode is a for-profit site. It contains paid banner advertisements that are generated and managed by a third-party network. This site also includes relevant affiliate links (both in the content and on the sidebar) all of which we do our best to clearly mark as such.

 

Costa Rica's two coasts

Costa Rica Coastline
Image by costaricaexperts.com

 

The Pacific Coast and the Caribbean Coast make up the two primary regions that make up Costa Rica. Which coast do you like better and why? Share your thoughts with us in the section below!

While both sides have stunning views, the adventures you can have on each onPacific vs Caribbean: which Costa Rica coast is better are quite unique. Playa Hermosa and Punta Uva are examples of the beautiful beaches that can be found along the Caribbean Coast, whereas Manuel Antonio National Park is located on the Pacific Coast. Every area possesses a certain allure that is distinctly its own.

San Jose, the country's capital, is located on the Caribbean Coast, while Tortuguero National Park and Drake Bay are found on the Pacific Coast. The Caribbean Coast is home to the majority of the country's prominent tourist spots. Even though breathtaking scenery can be found on both sides, you might want to think about spending your holiday in another region of the country if you're looking for a change of scenery.

There is no room for debate over the fact that the Pacific Coast is Costa Rica's most frequented beach location. The best beaches around the Pacific Coast may be stunning, but they are notorious for being overcrowded and too expensive.

The beaches along the Caribbean Coast, on the other hand, have not been developed as much as the beaches along the Atlantic Coast, thus they give guests more seclusion. Although it does not have the luxurious resorts that can be found along the Pacific Coast, the Caribbean Coast is home to a rich variety of flora, fauna, and other natural wonders.

Which side of Costa Rica's coastline do you think is more desirable, then? We propose that you visit both sides so that you may make your own decision.

Pura Vida

The phrase "Pura Vida" has been a part of the national lexicon of Costa Rica for more than half a century. However, it is more than simply a slogan; it is a style of life that aims to live a "pure life" or "simple life." Its English translation is "pure life" or "simple life."

Costa Rica weather

Costa Rica Weather map
Image by govisitcostarica.com

 

It might seem obvious, but Costa Rica's weather varies depending on whether you're in the Pacific or the Caribbean side of the country. While both coasts offer beautiful scenery and warm temperatures, each offers different experiences and activities.

Costa Rica has a tropical climate, meaning that temperatures are warm year round. There are four distinct seasons in Costa Rica: dry season, rainy season, winter, and summer. The dry season lasts from May to November, while the wet season runs from December to April.

The average temperature during the dry season is 82 degrees Fahrenheit, while the average temperature during the wet season is 77 degrees F. During the winter months, the average temperature drops down to 72 degrees F, while the summer averages 88 degrees F.

It's important to remember that Costa Rica's weather varies greatly depending on the location. For example, San José, the capital city, experiences much warmer weather than other parts of the country. As a result, visitors who plan to visit the area should consider bringing appropriate clothing.

While hurricanes aren't common in Costa Rica, they still happen every now and then.  While the country does experience occasional tropical storms, they are usually very weak and rarely affect large areas. There were two hurricanes in Costa Rica in 2016, both of which caused minimal damage.

Differences Between the Caribbean & Pacific Coast of Costa Rica

Both coasts offer beautiful beaches, amazing active wildlife, and plenty of adventure activities. Whom you ask is a major factor in determining which coast is superior.

Some individuals like the Caribbean side due to the fact that it is closer to San José and typically has higher average temperatures. Some people prefer the Pacific side because it has less visitor traffic and provides greater opportunities for seclusion in beach towns. In any case, one cannot deny that the two coasts provide a tremendous variety of options for outdoor adventure.

The coastline of the Caribbean can be found running parallel to the country's northern border with Panama and Nicaragua. It has white sand beaches waterways that are turquoise, and rainforests that are lush. Numerous outdoor pursuits such as surfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking are available here.

The Pacific coast of Costa Rica spans more than 100 miles and is located directly to the south of the capital city of San José. The majority of its beaches are composed of dark volcanic rock, whereas the ocean is bright blue. Scuba diving, fishing, kayaking, windsurfing, and kiteboarding are among the most well-liked things to do in this area.

There are various cities along each coast, including Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, Manuel Antonio, Jacó, Tamarindo, Montezuma, Dominical, Nosara, Punta Islita, Palmar Sur, Golfito, Flamingos, Sierpe, Playa Hermosa, Mal País, Uvita, Santa Teresa, and Liberia. It is simple to decide where to go on vacation because each region provides its visitors with a unique assortment of activities, sights, and experiences.

Pacific Coast

Costa Rica's Pacific Coast
Image by nearshoreamericas.com

 

The Pacific coast of Costa Rica is known for its gorgeous beaches and year-round pleasant climate. Along the coast, there are several interesting locations to explore, such as Manuel Antonio National Park, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, and Sirena Beach.

The Pacific coast is also home to various cities, including San Jose, Liberia, Quepos, Cahuita, Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, Palmar Sur, Punta Uva, Tamarindo, Nosara, Dominical, and Jacó. The sand at Playa Conchal, a beach on Costa Rica's Pacific side, is made up of millions of tiny shells. These areas provide visitors with access to a diverse selection of activities, from surfing and hiking to snorkelling and diving.

On the other side, vacationers will have a quite different experience along the shore of the Caribbean. This area has a climate that is generally cold and damp. The region contains the capital city of San José, Ciudad Colón, Turrialba, Limon, Heredia, Cartago, Alajuela, Grecia, Santa Cruz, La Fortuna, Arenal Volcano, and Guanacaste.

Pacific Coast Map

Caribbean Coast

Costa Rica's caribbean coast
Image by costarica.org

 

The Caribbean coast of Costa Rica offers visitors beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities filled with culture and history. Here are five fun facts about the region:1. There are over 30 volcanoes along the Pacific Ocean coastline of Costa Rica.2. One of the largest national parks in Central America is located here.3. The country has the highest concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites outside Europe.4. The country was named after Christopher Columbus’s ship, Santa María.5. The capital city of San José has the second longest pedestrian street in the world.

Caribbean Coast Map

Beaches on the Pacific vs Caribbean Side of Costa Rica

Although there are beaches on both coastlines, the Pacific Coast has a wider variety of possibilities. Along the Pacific Coast, there are a number of stunning national parks, such as Manuel Antonio National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, and Corcovado National Park. These parks offer visitors breathtaking vistas of the surrounding coastline and its abundant fauna.

On the other hand, the Caribbean Coast is characterized by a more tranquil atmosphere. Because there are fewer tourists here, you should have an easier time finding peace and quiet. In addition, the region that encompasses the municipality of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is home to a number of incredibly beautiful beaches.

Caribbean Beaches

Pacific Beaches

Weather in Pacific vs Caribbean

When compared to the Caribbean Coast, the Pacific Coast is both warmer and drier. Since this area has a tropical climate, there is no such thing as a winter season. The daytime highs reach an average of 80 degrees Fahrenheit, while the nighttime lows are around 70 degrees. The annual rainfall is about 5 inches on average.

When compared to the Pacific Coast, the Caribbean Coast has a lower average temperature and more rainfall. The weather can be either warm and dry or hot and humid, depending on the time of year. The annual rainfall is about 7 inches on average.

Both sides provide stunning beaches and an abundance of fascinating fauna. There is an abundance of hiking trails, as well as chances for snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing, and other water sports.

There are also a number of national parks, some of which are the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Manuel Antonio National Park, Corcovado National Park, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and Tortuguero National Park. 

Things to do in Pacific vs Caribbean

There are two coasts in Costa Rica; the Pacific Coast and the Caribbean Coast. While both offer different experiences, each offers unique attractions. Here are a few reasons why the Pacific Coast is superior to the Caribbean Coast.

1. The Pacific Coast Has More Activities

While the Caribbean Coast has several popular beaches, the Pacific Coast has dozens of hidden gems that visitors rarely discover. From pristine rainforests to remote caves, the Pacific Coast has activities for every type of traveller.

One of the biggest draws of Costa Rica is its climate. With average temperatures ranging from 70°F during the day to 80°F at night, the weather is perfect for outdoor adventures.

3. The Pacific Coast Has Less Crowded Attractions

With less tourists, the Pacific Coast offers a quieter experience. Visitors can enjoy nature preserves, exotic wildlife sanctuaries, and other natural wonders without having to deal with crowds.

4. The Pacific Coast Has Great Food

Foodies love Costa Rica because of its diverse cuisine. Whether you’re craving sushi, tacos, or pizza, the Pacific Coast has options for everyone.

5. The Pacific Coast Is Easier to Reach

Visitors who choose the Pacific Coast can reach destinations faster than those travelling to the Caribbean Coast. For example, travellers heading to Montezuma Waterfall can fly into Liberia Airport instead of Heredia Airport.

6. The Pacific Coast Has Fewer Airports

Airport congestion is a common problem in Costa Rica. Because the Pacific Coast has fewer airports, travellers can avoid long lines and delays.

7. The Pacific Coast Has Lower Prices

Because the Pacific Coast has fewer tourist hotspots, prices tend to be cheaper. However, if you visit the Caribbean Coast, expect to pay higher admission fees.

8. The Pacific Coast Has Stronger Economy

Tourism accounts for almost half of Costa Rica’s GDP. As a result, the economy of the Pacific Coast is stronger than that of the Caribbean Coast.

9. The Pacific Coast Offers More Accommodations

Hotels along the Pacific Coast are generally larger than hotels on the Caribbean Coast. This means that guests can find more rooms and suites, making accommodations easier to book.

International Airports

Costa Rica Airport
Image by costaricarios.com

 

Juan Santamara International Airport and Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport are the two primary international airports that serve Costa Rica. Both of these airlines provide flight service to destinations all over the world, such as San José, Panama City, Miami, New York, Toronto, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid, Amsterdam, Rome, Milan, and Barcelona.

Both Juan Santamara International Airport and Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport are located on the outskirts of San José, Costa Rica, with the former being closer to the latter. These airports are all linked to one another by bus services, which makes travelling between them very convenient.

Both airports feature contemporary terminals that are outfitted with a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and lounges in addition to wireless internet access. In addition, there are stores that sell duty-free goods, automated teller machines, currency exchange kiosks, and automobile rental services.

Taxis are readily available at both airports, despite the fact that they are within easy walking distance of nearby hotels. Taxis charge an average of $10 to $15 per person to travel anywhere in the city.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I'm going to give you two choices on the location of the next place you should go see. The Pacific Coast is one option to consider because it is home to stunning beaches and offers a plethora of chances to go surfing. The Pacific Coast, on the other hand, is home to a number of active volcanoes, such as Poas Volcano, Arenal Volcano, and Turrialba Volcano. This implies that you'll have to deal with the chance of ash falling from the sky, which might be a little bit of an annoyance at times.

The second possibility is the Caribbean Coast, which, despite having fewer volcanoes than the Pacific Coast, is renowned for its stunning beaches composed of pure white sand and crystal clear waters. In point of fact, the Caribbean Coast is home to not one, not two, but three national parks. These parks include Santa Rosa National Park, Manuel Antonio National Park, and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. These parks are home to a wide range of animal species, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and parrots, and they provide fantastic hiking paths that wind through lush rainforests and magnificent waterfalls for tourists to enjoy.

 

 

Add new comment

Restricted HTML

  • You can align images (data-align="center"), but also videos, blockquotes, and so on.
  • You can caption images (data-caption="Text"), but also videos, blockquotes, and so on.
CAPTCHA This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.
12 + 2 =
Solve this simple math problem and enter the result. E.g. for 1+3, enter 4.

Newsletter sign up

Join our mailing list and get a complementary stay in Mexico.  Get weekly emails with the latest travel deals you can't find anywhere else.
* indicates required