Best Places to Party and Enjoy Costa Rica Nightlife

Costa Rica offers a vibrant nightlife scene with various party venues and activities, from bars and nightclubs to beach parties. Whether staying in Jaco Beach on the Pacific side or exploring the high-energy hotspots in the Caribbean, you will find plenty of opportunities to experience the country’s festivities at some of the most incredible party venues.

It is important to note that some venues may have modified schedules and capacity limitations due to the current pandemic. It is always essential to prioritize safety when going out at night. Going to the beach at night by yourself is not recommended, and it is necessary to be aware of your surroundings and follow sanitary protocols to stay safe.

San Jose: The Citadel of Nightlife

San Jose, the capital area of Costa Rica, offers the biggest and most notable nightclubs and venues where you can party until dawn. From backpacking teenagers to jazz-loving retirees, there is something for everyone in Costa Rica’s diverse nightlife scene.

Downtown San Jose Clubs

Downtown San Jose offers several other notable clubs for dancing until the wee hours, such as the Jazz Club, which specializes in live music, and Castro’s Discotheque, a perfect venue for karaoke and cocktails. At Castro’s, you can belt out classics like “I Will Survive” and lose your inhibitions quickly.

Nightlife in Jaco

Jaco is a famous beach town in Costa Rica, known for its excellent surf and lively nightlife. The town has a range of bars and clubs, which attract a young and energetic crowd. One of the most popular spots in Jaco is the Green Room. This bar and club is located on the beach and is known for its live music and late-night parties.

Another popular spot in Jaco is the Monkey Bar. This bar is known for its fun and lively atmosphere, with live music and DJs playing until the early morning hours. Say you want something more low-key; head to the Orange Pub. This cozy bar has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with a range of craft beers and tasty snacks.

Nightlife in Tamarindo

Tamarindo is another popular beach town in Costa Rica, known for its stunning beaches and excellent nightlife. The town has a range of bars and clubs, which come alive after dark. One of the most popular spots in Tamarindo is the Crazy Monkey Bar. This bar is known for its lively atmosphere and excellent drinks, with live music and DJs playing throughout the night.

Head to the Long Board BBQ if you want something a little more low-key. This bar and restaurant is located on the beach and has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a cold beer and some delicious BBQ while watching the sunset over the ocean.

Nightlife in Playa Coco

Playa Coco is a stunning beach located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, known for its beautiful sunsets and laid-back vibe. The beach is home to many beachfront bars and restaurants, which come alive after dark. One of the most popular spots in Playa Coco is the Zi Lounge, a trendy beach club offering cocktails and delicious food. The club is known for its excellent music and lively atmosphere, with DJs playing until the early morning. Another popular spot in Playa Coco is the Lizard Lounge, a cozy bar offering craft beers and tasty snacks. The bar has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day in the sun. Whether you’re looking for a lively beach club or a cozy bar, Playa Coco has something for everyone.

Nightlife in Dominical

Dominical is a small but lively beach town located on the central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Known for its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere, Dominical is a popular destination for surfers and backpackers. Dominical has a surprisingly vibrant nightlife scene despite its small size, with various bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment. One of the most popular spots in Dominical is the Rum Bar, a cozy beachfront bar that provides a range of rum cocktails and local craft beers. The bar has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day in the sun. Another popular spot in Dominical is the San Clemente Bar & Grill, a lively beachfront restaurant that offers live music and entertainment every night of the week. The restaurant serves various delicious food, including fresh seafood and traditional Costa Rican dishes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy beachfront bar or a lively restaurant with live music, Dominical has something for everyone.

Nightlife in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a vibrant town on the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. Known for its stunning beaches and rich culture, Puerto Viejo is a popular destination for backpackers and surfers alike. The town has a lively nightlife scene, with various bars and clubs offering live music and entertainment. One of the most popular spots in Puerto Viejo is the Lazy Mon, a beachfront bar that provides a range of cocktails and tasty snacks. The bar has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day on the beach. Another popular spot in Puerto Viejo is the Tasty Waves Cantina, a cozy bar offering craft beers and delicious tacos. The bar is laid-back and popular with locals and tourists alike. Whether looking for a beachfront bar or a cozy cantina, Puerto Viejo has something for everyone.

In conclusion

Costa Rica offers various options for an incredible nightlife experience, from partying at world-class clubs to dancing on the beach. Make sure to prioritize safety and check the venue’s schedules and capacity limitations before going out to enjoy the night. Bookmark our suggestions on how to avoid crime in Costa Rica and stay safe.

-Written by Glenn Tellier (Founder of CRIE and Grupo Gap).

[email protected]

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the legal drinking age in Costa Rica?

The legal drinking age in Costa Rica is 18 years old. However, it is not uncommon for some bars and clubs to turn a blind eye to underage drinking.

What is the best time to experience nightlife in Costa Rica?

The nightlife in Costa Rica usually starts late and can go on until the early morning hours. The best time to share it depends on your preferences, but generally, the weekends are the busiest.

Are there any safety concerns when going out at night in Costa Rica?

As with any country, safety concerns exist when going out at night in Costa Rica. It is recommended to stay in well-lit areas, travel in groups, and avoid carrying valuables. Be sure to follow sanitary protocols and remain aware of your surroundings.

What is the dress code for Costa Rica nightlife?

The dress code for Costa Rica nightlife varies depending on the venue. Some places require formal wear, while others allow casual dress. It is always best to check beforehand to avoid being turned away at the door.

Can I use U.S. dollars to pay for drinks and entrance fees?

Many places in Costa Rica accept U.S. dollars, but having some local currency on hand is always best. Some businesses may offer better exchange rates if you pay in colones, the local currency.

What kind of music is played in Costa Rica nightlife venues?

The music played in Costa Rica nightlife venues varies, but it usually includes a mix of Latin, electronic dance, and American pop music.

Are there any age restrictions for entering nightclubs and bars in Costa Rica?

Most nightclubs and bars in Costa Rica require patrons to be 18 years old or older to enter. However, some places may have higher age restrictions, so it is always best to check beforehand.

Can I bring my alcohol to a party or nightclub in Costa Rica?

Getting your alcohol to a party or nightclub in Costa Rica is generally not allowed. Most places have their own drinks menu and do not allow outside beverages.

 

Fill out the form below to determine your residency category. Or click here!

  • First Step
  • Final Step

Select all options that apply to you

Pensionado (Pension/Disability) Category

Rentista (Fixed Income) Category

Inversionista (Investor) Category

Family ties with a Costa Rican Resident/Citizen Category

My residency company let me down

I am not sure.

Personal Information

Full Name

Your Email

Repeat to confirm

Country Of Birth

Country of Residence

How many people under your application (spouse, children under 25)

Phone Number with Country Code (optional)

 


Looking for a Loan? – Click HERE.
Looking for Real Estate? – Click HERE.
Looking for Profitable Investments? – Click HERE.

 

 

Add Your Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.