Puerto
Viejo de Talamanca (Talamanca's Old Harbor), is 34 miles
southeast of Puerto Limon, and 10.2 miles South of Cahuita.
It was not long ago that there were no roads leading here,
but all that has changed. The town's beautiful and wild
beaches were discovered,and have become a favorite amongst
locals and tourists since.
Life
here is easy going and makes it impossible not to relax
and forget about life's worries. It is so popular and such
a great place to be that a great number of European and
US citizens have become permanent residents of the area.
They have added to the eclectic mix of Afro-Caribbean, Spanish,
and indigenous cultures that magically blend in the small
corner of the Atlantic.
There
are plenty of opportunities for surfing, snorkeling, and
other outdoor activities. However, the pace of life is slow.
Visitors realize that the best options in Puerto Viejo involve
sitting along the shore and catching the perfect tan.
Puerto
Viejo is the most commercially active in Costa Rica's Caribbean.
There is an open market on the main street where local crafts
and handmade souvenirs welcome visitors. It is also true
that Puerto Viejo is a party town. There are small restaurants
and bars where, every night around 10:30, everyone that
happens to be in town packs the most popular spots and parties
until the sun comes up.
This
is believed by many to be one of the most beautiful spots
in the country. The beaches are picturesque, but require
visitors to be very careful while swimming. The beach right
along the town is best for surfing, since it has strong
waves and currents.
The
village of Puerto Viejo lies between the thick forested
hills of the Talamanca mountains and the ocean. It's a quiet
and well cared for place, where people relax and enjoy their
surroundings. The Rastafarians' red, green and gold splashed
everywhere is even more evidence that this small and charming
town emits a rich Caribbean flair.