Retiring in Costa Rica Caribbean Coast: Top Beaches to Consider

Consider the Costa Rica Caribbean coast if you want to retire in paradise. With its breathtaking tropical environment, stunning beaches, and laid-back lifestyle, it’s no wonder the region appeals to young and older adults alike.

Here’s a brief geography lesson on the region.

The Caribbean coast stretches over 150 kilometers from Nicaragua’s northern border to Panama’s southern border. The distance from San José, Costa Rica’s capital, to the Caribbean coast is approximately 250 kilometers, and the journey takes around four hours. Along the way, you’ll pass through the world-famous Braulio Carrillo National Park, down into the costa plains, and several Tico restaurants.

If you’re looking for a retirement spot, the Costa Rica Caribbean coast has two famous beaches that you should consider: Cahuita and Puerto Viejo.

Retiring in Cahuita

Located 25 kilometers south of Limón, Cahuita is a stunning beach near Cahuita National Park. Many foreigners own and operate hotels in and around Cahuita, and the park features a strip of rainforest that stretches down the bay and covers the point to the south. In the park, you’ll find white-faced capuchin monkeys, sloths, birds, and insects. It also houses a marine park to conserve the coral and over 500 indigenous reef fish species. The park is also the nesting place for the endangered leatherback turtle.

Retiring in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a small town located 12 miles south of Cahuita. The city boasts a Jamaican-like vibe and is perfect for those who enjoy snorkeling and surfing in the Caribbean. Many people are relocating to the Caribbean and buying land to build their homes, cabins, or businesses. Due to the increased demand among “Baby Boomers” searching for a beautiful retirement spot, others are purchasing pre-built homes. Additionally, most house purchasers are couples, families, and young adults seeking a less stressful lifestyle than in other regions of the country.

In Conclusion

The Costa Rica Caribbean coast is a great place to retire if you’re looking for a peaceful, tropical environment with stunning beaches and a laid-back lifestyle. Whether you retire in Cahuita or Puerto Viejo, you will be satisfied. So why wait? Start planning your Costa Rica residency today!

-Co-written by Johanna Alvarez (Immigration expert) and Glenn Tellier (Founder of CRIE and Grupo Gap).

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why retire in the Costa Rica Caribbean coast?

The Costa Rica Caribbean coast offers a breathtakingly gorgeous tropical environment, stunning beaches, a laid-back lifestyle, and a colorful Afro-Caribbean culture that appeals to both young and old people.

What are the two famous beaches to consider when retiring in the Costa Rica Caribbean coast?

The two famous beaches to consider when retiring in the Costa Rica Caribbean coast are Cahuita and Puerto Viejo.

What is the distance between San Jose and the Costa Rica Caribbean coast?

The distance between San Jose and the Costa Rica Caribbean coast is approximately 250 kilometers, and the journey takes around four hours.

What is the Cahuita National Park?

The Cahuita National Park is a park located near Cahuita beach, which houses a strip of rainforest that stretches down the bay and covers the point to the south. The park features white-faced capuchin monkeys, sloths, birds, and insects. It also contains a marine park to conserve the coral and over 500 indigenous reef fish species.

What is the Jamaican-like town in the Costa Rica Caribbean coast?

Puerto Viejo is a small town located 12 miles south of Cahuita that boasts a Jamaican-like vibe and is perfect for those who enjoy snorkeling and surfing in the Caribbean.

Who are purchasing pre-built homes in the Costa Rica Caribbean coast?

Due to the increased demand among “Baby Boomers” searching for a wonderful retirement spot, many are purchasing pre-built homes in the Costa Rica Caribbean coast. Additionally, the vast majority of house purchasers are couples, families, and young adults seeking a less stressful lifestyle than is available in other regions of the country.

What is the nesting place for the endangered leatherback turtle?

The Cahuita National Park is the nesting place for the endangered leatherback turtle.

What should I do to start my Costa Rica residency?

If you’re considering retiring in Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, you should start by doing your research on the different areas, visas, and residency requirements. You may also want to consult with a local attorney or relocation expert who can guide you through the process.

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