Cahuita Beach - Costa Rica
The village of Cahuita Beach is well known because of the national park with the same name. The park protects the biggest Costa Rican coral reef. The name Cahuita has it's origin in the language of the native people. "Cawi" is the word for mahogany which was used to build fishing boats. "Ta" can be translated as point or peak. North of Cahuita Beach the black Playa Negra stretches for miles all the way to Limon. The road runs parallel to the beach and the view of the ocean is only hidden from time to time by palm trees. The bright sand beach in the national park is much more inviting. One can relax in the shade of the palms or snorkel in the clear, turquoise water.
More than 100 different species of tropical fish live on the reef. The village consists of two gravel roads that run parallel to the beach. The roads are crossed by four more roads, there is no village square in Cahuita.
Life in Cahuita Beach is influenced by the Creole culture; this has a strong influence on the local cuisine, music and language. The hectic pace of the world is none existent in Cahuita Beach, this is the perfect place to relax without a care in the world.
Snorkeling between tropical fish at the reef...
Many of the village people are Rastafarians with long dreadlocks and always a bright smile on their lips. Reggae rhythms and colorful clothing prevail in the small village.
At the beginning of December and in July a small carnival is celebrated in Cahuita Beach.
Cahuita Beach on the map
Facts about Cahuita Beach, Costa Rica
- The biggest Costa Rican coral reef is located in the Cahuita National Park.
- In July and at the beginning of December a small carnival is celebrated in Cahuita Beach.
Driving times and distances
- Distance from San Jose to Cahuita Beach: 195.2 kilometers respectively 121.4 miles.
- Travel time from San Jose to Cahuita Beach: 4.14 hours.
- Distance from Liberia to Cahuita Beach: 406.5 kilometers respectively 252.7 miles.
- Travel time from Liberia to Cahuita Beach: 8.19 hours.
