— An Experience —

Pura Vida Re-wilding Experiences

Run by Juan Carlos & Capi and is for the guests who are after something a little different to the more commercial tours in the area. This is your chance to see & discover the wilder side of Costa Rica. There are currently two separate experiences. Firstly, The Pura Vida Boat Adventure begins at Puerto Catalina at the back of Coronado village which backs right onto the mangroves & historically was a fishing village where the locals collected, treated & traded the carbon found in the roots of the mangroves. We board the small motor-boat (also equipped with oars for the smaller channels of the mangroves). Numbers are limited to 6 guests, but is the perfect way to glide through the mangroves, travel across the Rio Terraba & admire and embrace nature along the way until arriving at the very magical and largely deserted Playa Garza. Mile after mile of volcanic sand backed by thousands of coconut palms and pineapple plantations.

The timings of the Pura Vida Boat Adventure largely depend on tide times. If you leave first thing in the morning, the surrounding rain forest will be coming to life as the sun rises, with a good variety of wildlife on offer. Capi will navigate the panga (small boat) through a labyrinth of mangroves to an opening in the Rio Terraba. Sit back and admire the spectacular scenery, surroundings, nature and sea breeze. The real reward is when you will arrive at the hidden Playa Garza, named after the thousands of birds that visit the countless kilometres of dark volcanic sand every day. After leaving the boat at the pier, there is a short walk through coconut and pineapple plantations to the deserted beach. Here you can swim, sunbathe or drink coconut after coconut. Depending on the timings of the adventure, food and light refreshments are included. Prices are $60 per person (Minimum two people).

The second re-wilding experience is the Chasing Waterfalls Trek Experience. This unique trek normally departs in the morning from the Tres Rios bridge on foot discovering some of the local gems that just the locals know about! A private morning tour with our housekeeper Juan Carlos including food & drink is $35 per person (Minimum two people) and generally needs to be booked at least 1 week in advance. This is the perfect activity if you’re seeking solace from a normally busy life or simply just after a re-wilding escape. It’s a unique opportunity to awaken your senses from within and reconnect with mother nature. Following the Peace, Plants & Pura Vida ethos behind our little jungle retreat, all the available routes have been carefully curated to enable guests to embark on a transformative journey towards a greener & cleaner lifestyle. This one especially is powered by nature! Further info for both experiences is in the welcome pack and at Pura Vida Rewilding.

Isla del Caño with Black Tip Divers CR

Caño Island is one of Costa-Rica's premier snorkelling and diving spots. The nature reserve is surrounded by 5 marine platforms or low coral reefs where 15 species of corals have been identified and offers a plethora of fish species in the surrounding clear waters. While there are lots of dive companies in the area, none of them are as eco-conscious as Black Tip Divers CR as this locally-owned Eco-Tour Agency (operating out of nearby Uvita) have a host of activities that are perfect for those who want to travel to exotic destinations and give back to the environment at the same time and one of the owners even used to be the Park Ranger on the Isla del Caño! Their expeditions are full of like-minded people who also share a passion for marine life and their preservation as they take guests on a journey that encompasses hands-on learning, exploration, up-close marine life encounters, ocean clean-up, research and conservation work.

The ‘Experience with a Purpose’ begins with a 90-minute boat ride where there’s a chance to encounter turtles, manta rays, spotted spinner or bottlenose dolphins and whales (depending on the season) swimming alongside the boat. Upon arrival, the divemaster will point out the best spots for sighting marine life and as well lead divers through the exotic underwater realm. For those that prefer snorkelling, there is an opportunity to explore the reefs and island at your leisure. While underwater, one can encounter species of fish like the king angel, moorish idol, puffers, surgeon fish, snapper, barracuda, barber fish, parrot fish, damsel fish and a variety of eels hiding around the coral lined rock formations. Turtles, rays and the non-aggressive reef shark can also be spotted. Between dives, the island offers idyllic sandy beaches, coconut palms and offer a shaded picnic area next to the beach where you can enjoy your lunch and trails leading into the jungle allowing you to explore the island and its hidden waterfalls a little further. For more information and a selection of PADI Dive Courses, Single Day Experiences (Snorkeling, Diving & Freediving), please get in touch with Roberto from Black Tip Divers CR (email: blacktipdiverscr@gmail.com or whatsapp +50686018601).

UPDATE (FEB 2024): Many of you may already be familiar with Innoceana Costa Rica and while their center in Ojochal is sadly no longer offering day trips to Isla del Caño, those interested in longer Expeditions & Internships should get in touch as they have a super new center a little further south in Corcovado, so if this sounds like your sort of thing, do get in touch. Click here for more info.

Since we became a Certified Member to One Percent For The Planet back in 2021, Pura Vida Ecolodge continues to support a carefully curated selection of Conservation programs in the local area. You can read more in our People & Planet Project but our current two favourites for the coming season will be Costa Rica Coral Restoration and Reserva Playa Tortuga as together with Innoceana Costa Rica, they are head and shoulders above the rest when it comes to sustainability and conservation of our environment. If you want to get involved with the SPONSORED BEACH CLEANUPS when you’re in the area, they are ay PLAYA VENTANAS on the the second Wednesday of each month and on the fourth Wednesday of each month at PLAYA TORTUGA (8 to 10am). For Divemaster Internships & Marine Conservation Expeditions, guests can still get in touch with Innoceana Costa Rica Underwater Photo Credits Yulian Cordero & Laura Vanopdenbosch

Paddle 9 Adventure tours

Located in Manuel Antonio, Paddle 9 are considered the Waterfall Excursion experts in the whole of Costa Rica’s Zona Sur. They know all the hidden little gems in the area as well as being pioneers in Stand Up Paddle Boarding tours in La Zona Sur (Pacific Ocean and the Mangroves). While they offer great equipment, highly trained guides and are super safety conscious, one of their objectives is to take their clients out of their comfort zones, pura vida style of course… They offer a variety of half day and full day tours in a plethora of stunning locations, many of which lie off the beaten track - anything from private bespoke adventures, waterfall tours, paddle board tours and even SUP Yoga. For more info, prices and availability please visit Paddle 9 and don’t forget to mention us when booking and you’ll be well looked after! Adventure Photo Credits Matthew Rosenthal

‘Coco a coco’ Experience

What's so special about the coconut and why is it so popular? If you are interested in coconuts, the plethora of nutritious snacks they can provide and understanding more about what a brilliantly sustainable and versatile plant this is, then the ‘Coco a Coco’ Experience is not to be missed! Takes place in David’s Finca in Uvita (right by the beach down in Ballena) and is generally 2-3 hours long. It’s very hands on as guests learn how to make pure organic coconut oil, lip balms & creams as well as coconut milk and sometimes even coconut bowls. During the morning (or afternoon), you’ll also get to try some tasty coconut based snacks, learn about coconut sugar and the uses of coir fibre and even how Costa Rica’s indigenous tribes still use coconut palms to thatch their roofs. Great for all the family. Price is $30 per person and generally needs to booked with us a few days in advance.

Paragliding & Light aircraft tours…

All human beings dream of flying like a bird. Make this dream a reality by joining us for a tandem paragliding flight along Costa Rica's Pacific Ocean coastline. You do not need to have any previous experience, training or special physical conditioning. After a few minutes of instructions from your pilot, you will be ready for a completely safe and secure flight. Enjoy the experience of free flight with pilots who are specially trained and certified in tandem paragliding flights.... Paraglide Costa Rica and for bookings & enquiries +506 8345-5135 or if you’d prefer not to be your own pilot, set just outside Uvita is Papa Kilo Air Park. This particular tour is not for the faint-hearted but rather the adrenalin junkie! Within a few seconds of take-off you will be witness to some of the most dramatic coastlines and beaches on the Pacific. including the famous Whale's Tail beach and rock formation in the Marino Ballena National Park. This is the world from above!  For more options & bookings visit Papa Kilo Air Park

Parque Nacional de Manuel Antonio

Although one of Costa Rica's smallest National Park, Manuel Antonio is really quite special. On a good day, at the right time, it's easy to convince yourself that you’ve died and gone to a coconut filled paradise. The park's clearly marked system of trails winds through rainforest-backed tropical beaches and rocky headlands and the views across the bay to the pristine outer islands are unforgettable. As if this wasn't enough of a 'hard sell', add to the experience iguanas, howler monkeys, capuchins, sloths and squirrel monkeys and you've got yourselves a good day out! The park’s clearly marked trail system winds through rainforest-backed tropical beaches and rocky headlands, and the views across the bay to the pristine outer islands are unforgettable. Add to the mix iguanas, howlers, capuchins, sloths and squirrel monkeys. For tours, timings and more info get in touch with Sonia at Uvita Info Centre or whatsapp ‭+506 8843-7142 or uvitainfocenter@gmail.com

Horse riding

There are various horseback riding tours both on Pura Vida Ecolodge's doorstep as well as more adventurous options further inland. Some tours are designed with romance and sunsets in mind, whereas other local options give guests an insight of the working of a typical Costa Rican farm or 'granja' in the areais over. One of the local favourites is up the road in Uvita with Rancho La Merced (we just LOVE their sunset tour option but there are other special ones too). Another option (when Macho is in town) leaves right from the lodge going up to El Pavon (a great local spot for a dip in a stunning waterfall and then a tasty 'tico' lunch at the neighbouring restaurant). But one of the most dramatic options includes the stunning Nauyaca Falls, a 12 km route with three resting periods, departing from the base camp, passing by Casa de Don Lulo’s, where you will have a delicious typical Costa Rican breakfast. This particular tour takes approximately from 45 minutes to one hour up to “Don Lulo’s house”. After breakfast and observing animals in the family’s mini-zoo, the ride continues on for 25 minutes until arriving at the waterfalls themselves. There is excellent swimming in the huge natural plunge pools as well as excellent jumping and diving options - for the more adventurous among you. Get in touch with Sonia at Uvita Info Centre or uvitainfocenter@gmail.com or whatsapp ‭+506 8843-7142 for more info.

Parque Nacional de Corcovado

As the guidebooks say, it’s not uncommon to use superlatives when describing the Península de Osa, Corcovado and the Golfo Dulce. National Geographic famously described it as ‘the most biologically intense place on earth.’ Residents claim it is the most picturesque, the most pristine, the most perfect spot in Costa Rica. Certainly, indisputably, it is the most remote and contains a huge swathe of Pacific rain forest crammed with life. What’s more, you can actually see it. From the army ants toiling away, to the scarlet macaws squawking in the almond trees, from Baird’s tapirs hanging around Sirena ranger station, to the four species of monkeys swinging in the trees, this is undoubtedly Costa Rica’s top spot to witness life at its wildest. For further info, timings and tour prices speak to Sonia uvitainfocenter@gmail.com or whatsapp ‭+506 8843-7142 or visit Uvita Info Centre

Surf & SUP

Costa Rica Coast has some of the finest surf in Central America and surfers searching for the perfect surf getaway have been coming to Costa Rica for years, year round surfing in its warm waters without a wetsuit, its beautiful beaches and clean surf breaks from every coastline being the key ingredients. Dominical is a very good option for those looking for similar conditions to Playa Hermosa in a more relaxed atmosphere. The surf here is mostly beach break, however, tends to close out on bigger swells as it is not as steep as Hermosa. There is a point break just to the south which offers some good surf on a bigger swell. Dominical, is a small laid back town surrounded by pristine rainforest and beautiful coastlines. This surfer’s paradise offers great surf, numerous local restaurants, bars and a wild nightlife. Dominical is geared towards serious surfers who wish to avoid the heavy crowds of Playa Hermosa and are looking for a more relaxed, tropical atmosphere.

But Dominical definitely isn't the only option when it comes to serious surfing. For the more adventurous ones among you, (or if you want to just step away from the slightly 'beaten track') you may like to consider more 'rugged' options the South Pacific zone offers the extreme adventurer with an opportunity to witness one of the few untouched, pristine regions in Costa Rica. Where the Talamanca Mountain Range gently slopes into the South Pacific Ocean and waterfalls cascade down and spill onto the beaches, you will find a plethora of bays, beaches and inlets offering strong beach breaks with lefts and rights. While May to November generally host the larger breaks, a fairly consistent break can be found for all levels throughout the year and starting with the closest to Pura Vida Ecolodge - Tortuga, Ventanas, Pinuelas, Arco, Uvita, Dominicalito and of course Domincal, are all great options and worth exploring.

One of our partners, Tito, the founder of one of the local surf schools, began to surf at 11 years old in 1998…and is a good pace to start, whatever your level, if you're a beginner, intermediate, or even an advanced surfer, there are options to tailor a custom package just for you. Packages include surfing lessons, surfing trips and surfboard rentals from both Dominical and Uvita so be sure to check out Kalon Surf and Pineapple Tours for more options. Kayaks & SUP's are also a great setup with some super cool local tours. There is also Dominical Wave Rider, one of two surf shops based in Dominical that hire boards and offer a variety of lessons and excursions. 

Cataratas Nauyaca

Nauyaca Waterfalls is a totally Costa Rican owned family tourism company, dedicated for several years to tour operations. These are horseback riding tours traveling through the farm that border with two impressive waterfalls from Río Barucito. These majestic waterfalls are one of the main attractions of the southern region in Costa Rica, not only for their natural scenic beauty, which offers the tourist moments of recreation and fun, but also to participate in different activities such as horseback ridign tours, swimming, climbing, jumping and to observe much of the beauty of the tropical rainforest, among others. They’ve got a really nice site with some great info and tips, so do check it out Cataratas Nauyaca

Sailing

Isla Del Caño is one of the most popular destinations for sailing tours and charters and is a small island in the Bahia de Coronado (Bay of Coronado) in Costa Rica. The National Park attracts visitors for its beaches, coral beds, and sea life. Marine life includes manta rays, dolphins, sea turtles, whales, and a wide variety of fish. The island has a great historical and archaeological legacy: it was considered an ancient indian cementary, but the most amazing finding is the great number of stone spheres found throughout the island. Some are almost perfect and have different sizes. The vegetation is quite similar to Corcovado National Park. The only mammals present are pigs and tepezcuintles. There is a trail going around the whole island, including a rather special waterfall and plunge pool. There are latrines and drinkable water at the Rangers station. Check out Mystic Dive for charters and more info.

Canopy Tour

A canopy tour is an adventure like none other you will experience. It consists of a network of cables that are strung from one tower to another high above the jungle floor. Riders travel along the wire via a specially-designed harness that is safe and secure as it glides along the zip-line. The force of gravity propels the rider along the cable, giving the rider the feeling of flying through the air in the majesty of nature until they reach the next platform where more spectacular views await. There are a lot of options throughout the country and in La Zona Sur, but our favourite by a clear mile is Osa Canopy Tour

Kayaking & SUP

Enjoy an ocean kayak paddle and discover some of Costa Rica's most rugged and natural coastline. A plethora of caves, arches and stacks await not to mention mile after mile of golden volcanic sands and coconut palms that line the often deserted beaches of La Zona Sur. Our particular favourite for Kayaking is Playa Ventanas, but you can also try other island tours such as Las Tres Hermanas. For rentals and tour info try Pineapple Kayak Tours & Uvita Info Centre

Rafting

Costa Rica is one of the best places in the world for rafting because of the diverse river formations that made ​​our rainforests. Guests can enjoy spectacular scenery while choosing between one of the slower river paths or perhaps opting for adrenaline & excitement on one of the quicker routes. Rivers in Costa Rica are classified into classes according to their intensity, among them are Guabo River & Rio Savegre Class II and III; Rio Coto Brus offers class III and IV. 

Local tours can last a full or half day and generally include transportation, lunch and a professional guide/team and usually start from Uvita or Dominical. Further afield, there is the Pacuare River which is ranked as one of the top five rivers in the world to white water raft. What earns the Pacuare River this acclaim is its eighteen miles of class III and class IV rapids and some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of Costa Rica. Adrenalin junkies get to enjoy the thrill of the rapids, as well as the natural beauty that surrounds the river such as cascading waterfalls and a variety of tropical flora and fauna. Experienced, specialized rafting guides, top of the line equipment, and a day full of safe and exciting adventures on the Rio Pacuare are guaranteed. Tours typically begin near the town of Tres Equis; one hour East of Turrialba. Check out Ballena Info Center for more info.

Canyoning & Bungee

Canyoning, also known as 'canyoneering' in North America, is a vertical sport that involves descending a series of waterfalls using techniques like rappelling, jumping, sliding, and boulder scrambling. The canyon tour involves mostly rappelling with 6 waterfalls varying in height that are in succession from smallest to biggest. Guests therefore can become comfortable with rappelling before descending Iguana Falls, the last and most adrenaline pumping waterfall.

All the techniques are demonstrated by professional qualified guides with over 12 years of international canyon guiding experience (Switzerland, France, Italy, New Zealand, Japan and Costa Rica). A truly unique waterfall rappelling experience that you will never forget! When guests reach the first waterfall (which is 5 meters, or 15 feet high) they will be taught the fundamentals and proper techniques of rappelling. Then you are on your way – with 5 more waterfalls to go! The largest of the falls is 25 meters, or 75 feet! The canyon ends at the Uvita River where there are some pristine swimming holes to relax, reflect or simply splash around. Then the Canyon Cruzer will pick you up and take you back to the Base Camp or you can arrange your own transportation (4x4) Please bear in mind that for canyoning, you need to be an active person in good health. There are no special skills and experience required for the canyoning tour, just a good sense of adventure! Also, it's worth noting that Canyoning is kid friendly! Children must be 11 years or older to participate. For bookings and enquiries checkout Costa Canyoning

ECO TERMALES QUEPOS

Most of Costa Rica’s natural hot springs are found in the mountains, close to the country’s volcanoes largely in the north of Costa Rica. However, for those traveling to Costa Rica’s wilder Zona Sur, there is one really cute and rustic option between the towns of Manuel Antonio and Dominical. Eco Termales Quepos has naturally heated, warm pools set in the remote countryside. Eco Termales Quepos is located in Dos Bocas, near the small town of Hatillo. Although the name implies that these hot springs are in Quepos, they are actually to the south (the closest major town is Dominical).As with some of the hidden gems in the Zona Sur, you’ll need a 4x4 car to get there, as it’s located on a dirt road,  next to a peaceful river bordered by dense jungle. While it’s not as flash and fancy as some of the thermal pools in Arenal and you won’t be given white bathrobe and slippers, it’s another great opportunity for re-wilding and embracing nature as this rustic option is run by a local family and that’s all part of its charm. There is a family-run restaurant on the property and various picnic tables scattered around the pools and alongside the river, so plenty of space to chill and you can even bring your own food and drink. For more details whatsapp +506 8660-2870. Cost per adult is $7 (for thermal pools). 

Psychedelic journeying, integration & rewilding

If you’re looking for a life changing experience, the organic design and wild setting of Pura Vida Ecolodge and the surrounding nature reserve provides the perfect setting for what might be the next step in your life. Psychedelic journeying and integration, done in ritual and reverence, and guided by an intention and curious heart, can prove to be a very potent tool for self-discovery, healing and re-wilding. We have recently started working closely with a couple of very experienced facilitators & therapists who are committed to providing excellent healing services to make sure that each participant feels the needed support and protection during their journey of inner discovery, transformation and healing.

Working with the mind and body holistically, drawing inspiration from Eastern philosophies, sound therapy, shamanism, therapeutic modalities and neuroscience, to guide you, as you guide yourself back home. An experience with Ayahuasca and other plant medicines (such as Magic Mushrooms, Rapé and Tobacco Mapacho) can be a powerful and life changing journey so together with our recommended facilitators, the goal is to awaken people to their true potential by expanding their consciousness. We want each participant to get back with a renewed body, mind, and spirit, ready to integrate the re-wilding (and even re-childing) experience and the insights into their everyday lives. Magic Mushroom Ceremonies from $100 per person, Ayahuasca Ceremonies from $170 per person and Sound Healing $70 per person. For more details of fully bespoke experiences, get in touch with Carolina & Mario at Sowa Nete Retreats.

Clean & Mindful living

If you’re in Costa Rica’s Zona Sur for a while, we also highly recommend getting in touch with our friend Milda at Non-Toxic Steps. Currently based up in Uvita but planning on moving to the Tres Rios area as well soon. They’re on a mission to uncover simple #nontoxicsteps to optimize wellbeing and have Costa Rica’s first online store dedicated 100% to clean & non-toxic living. If the hydrotherapy tubs up at Pura Vida Ecolodge aren’t intense enough for what you had in mind, guests can book a Cold Plunge Session as you embrace the amazing health benefits of immersing yourself in 1-2C (33.8-35.6F) degrees cold water! Cold plunge dropins start from just $6.95. Alternatively, if you’re interested in healing the body with heat, she also offer Infra-Red Sauna Sessions, a unique way to help your body to up-regulate cellular function. Milda’s portable Full Spectrum Sauna combines the best of many worlds: sauna,  full-spectrum infrared therapy, negative ions and earthing. Offering guests the full-spectrum of red light therapy is a real game-changer in anyone’s healing process. Drop in sweat sessions start from $14.95

Cerro Chirripo

Cerro Chirripó is the name of the highest point in Costa Rica is part of La Amistad International Park. The massif is located on the border between the cantons of Perez Zeledon (San Jose) , Turrialba ( Cartago) , Limon and Talamanca. The summit is at 3820 meters above sea level ( 12,530 feet), and is the best known of the Cordillera de Talamanca mountain, and one of the highest in Central America. It offers the visitor stunning landscapes including glacial lakes and both coastlines (Cartibbean & Pacific) and on a clear day you can also see 3/4 of the country and Panamanian territory. At its highest point plains , steep points, glacial lakes , forests and variety of nature, flora and fauna can be enjoyed.

The only way to get to this point is to walk up a mountain about 20 kilometers, which is typically done in two stages. In the first step you climb to 3400 meters setting off at around 6 or 7am, where the Refugio El Paramo, which has electricity services & drinking water, cooking utensils etc  (sleeps 80 people). The second stage is usually performed the next morning on a walk of 5 miles of moderate intensity and a time of 2-3 hours. The national park is really well organized and one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations and in the interest of looking after the natural habitats and limiting the impact visitors have on the park, the number of visitors per day is quite limited and guests often have to book up weeks if not months in advance to secure entrance. For enquiries and more guidance, please check out  Parque Nacional Chirripo

Coffee Plantation Experience

Located in the stunning lush hills of Fladas del Parque Nacional La Amistad in the small town of Biolley, Coffea Diversa offers a wonderful day out. Albeit quite a long drive from Pura Vida Ecolodge, combined with a stop in Curré (an indigenous territory and one of the two territories of the Boruca people) is well worth the road trip. Once in Biolley, this authentic and eye-opening experience offers you the chance to see the world's largest private collection of coffee plants (with around 700 botanical varieties of coffee. The tour includes walking round the seemingly endless plantations, seeing the differences between the varieties being cultivated, learning how to make a coffee seedling, picking and harvesting coffee, seeing how coffee is processed, dried, stored and picked and enjoying the lovely aromas and tastes as you learn on site how coffee is roasted as well as discovering the many different ways of brewing. For more information, availability and prices please get in touch with tourcoffeadiversa@gmail.com or whatsapp +506 8457 6814 and visit their site for more info Coffea Diversa

Playas, Playas and more Playas!

There are plenty of stunning beaches just a few minutes drive from Pura Vida Ecolodge. Between them, guests will find more than enough activities to keep them entertained throughout their stay including - Surfing, kayaking, sailing, sunset tours, boating, water-skiing, jet skiing, parasailing, horse riding and SUP just to mention a few. But if you’re not feeling too energetic and would rather take a long stroll or just bask in the sunshine like an iguana, then here are a just a few of our favourites, each one with their own charm and beauty, and all just a stones throw away from the lodge or at most an easy day trip! Starting with the nearest Playa Tortuga (5-10 mins north up the Costa Nera), Playa Ventanas, Playa Piñuelas, Playa Arco, Playa Ballena, Playa Uvita, Playa Dominicalito, Playa Dominical and a little further north Playa Manuel Antonio.

plant-powered foodies Faves

There are new places popping up all the time but here are a few of our current favourite eating experiences that you’ll find in Tres Rios, Ojochal, Uvita and beyond

• NuRaw Restaurant & Cafe (3.1 KM Tres Rios) 🌿 An inspired vegan & vegetarian menu celebrates locally-sourced and natural ingredients.

• Los Manglares (7KM Punta Mala) Fresh Ceviche with patacones & fruit batidos are the house specialities, great location overlooking the mouth of Rio Terraba

• Citrus (11KM Ojochal) An interesting 'fusion' of Mediterranean and world cuisine set in an idyllic open setting right by Rio Ojochal. Vegan options. 🌿

• Exotica (12KM Ojochal) Quintessentially French and gourmet fusion cuisine

• Heliconia (12KM Ojochal) Lovely little place tucked away off the Costanera, offering both vegetarian & vegan options and Kombucha! Vegan options. 🌿

• Tilapias El Pavon (12KM via Punta Mala) Up past Pura Vida Ecolodge (towards Punta Mala) there is a great 'eat what you catch' fish restaurant. Don’t miss a dip in the adjacent waterfall afterwards!

• Pancito Cafe (13KM Ventanas) Organic pastries, breads and desserts. Lovely bakery with dine-in and vegan options, great for breakfasts. Vegan options. 🌿

• The Bamboo Room (14KM Ojochal) Up in the Hills of Ojochal, this place offers great food, live music and super friendly owners with stunning views

• Los Gatos Locos (13KM Ojochal) Loads of tasty vegan options, spacious restaurant with Alfreso dining options and live music on weekends. 🌿

• Hotel Three-Sixty (14KM Ojochal) High-end dining with stunning views to match. Get there before sunset and enjoy some awesome cocktails. Vegan options. 🌿

• Tagua Coffee (15KM Ojochal) Really cute alfresco coffee shop with plant-based milks and vegan cakes & snacks. Vegan options. 🌿

• Origin (15KM Ojochal) Organic market & shop and a great place to pick up some local goodies. Right next door to Tagua Coffee Shop

• The Bakery (26KM Uvita) Great place for a lazy breakfast, smoothies and some delicious pastries and cakes (plus bigger hot plates).

• La Fogata (26KM Uvita) Excellent authentic wood-oven pizzas and 'pollo asado' restaurant run by our friends Felippe & Patricia

• Make Y Que (26KM Uvita) Lifestyle Food, Natural Juices, Protein Shakes & Energy Snacks. 100% Natural (Vegan, Keto & GF options) 🌿

• Feelovesophy (26KM Bahia Ballena) 🌿 Small vegan cafe & brunch restaurant serving sweet & savoury options in a green & peaceful environment.

• Indomitos Cafe & Bar (27KM Uvita) 🌿 Great little plant-based breakfast & lunch option walking distance from Uvita crossroads

• Awake (27KM Uvita) 🌿 Community centre focused on workshops & retreats for the body, mind & spirit. Serves plant-based GF, organic home-made food sourced locally.

• Phat Noodle (25KM Uvita & 44KM Dominical) Asian Fusion restaurants located in both Dominical & Uvita. Vegan options. 🌿

• Por Que No (42KM Dominicalito) Oceanside Dining day & night on Playa Dominicalito - great sunsets and cocktails (*Currently Closed, hopefully re-opening soon!)

• Lori Restaurant & Deli (44KM Dominical) 🌿 100% Vegan nourishment right near the beach. Use WAZE to locate. (Sat-Thurs 10am-8pm)

• Cafe Mono Congo (44KM Dominical) Waterfront eatery in the jungle. Strong coffee, yummy food, good vibes. Vegan options. 🌿

• Fuego Brew (44KM Dominical) Beautifully designed & constructed largely out of bamboo in a nice garden setting. Tasty food with a great selection of home brew beers and live music in evenings. Vegan options. 🌿

• Selva Organica (56.8KM Platanillo) Health food store & cafeteria. Also a great a co-working space, eat & drink yummy organic foods & beverage and shop all the local goodies: 🌿

• Gratitud (79KM San Isidro) 🌿 Fully vegan cafe offering a range of internationally-inspired plant-based cuisine in a funky bamboo inspired setting

• Sunny’s Caffe (143KM Hermosa Beach) Really cute pitstop right near the beach with poke bowls, smoothies, juices & great coffee and plant-based milks 🌿

• El Chante Vegano (237KM San Jose) Great option in Alajuela if you’re staying near the airport on your first or last night in Costa Rica 🌿