Diving in Puntarenas

Puntarenas is richly diverse in marine life and diving posibilities, whatever your interests or level may be. Dive centres are scattered about, there's one in Uvita or the best place to head is Drake Bay where you have a good selection.

Sea life is abundant off the coast here; search around the reef and rocky formations for schools of fish, huge tuna, dorado and sailfish, or a turtle and maybe even a hammerhead shark if you're lucky. It's quite common to see schools of dolphins and whales breaching on your boat trip to the dive sites.

Drake Bay has some great diving opportunities off Caño Island, which has 6 wonderful sites to explore. The Marino Ballena National Park is located 15 minutes by boat from Uvita and is also a great dive location, with loads of fish, reefs covered in sea fans and big pelagics, the clear, warm water makes for some lovely diving.

There are hidden gems all along the Puntarenas coastline, you might even find a few we haven't heard about! So drop us a line if you do find some more diving adventures, we'd love to hear about them.

(By Kelly Luckman)

Travel to Puntarenas

The city of Puntarenas really isn't a favourite travel destination, but the region of Puntarenas is full of natural wonders, with activities and wildlife galore! So if you avoid the port town and head straight to lovely beaches or national parks, you're sure to really appreciate Puntarenas.

Settled on the central Pacific Coast, the area is just a stone's throw away from the hustle and bustle of San Jose. A couple of hours by bus is all it takes, or hire a car to really see the sites. Accommodation options vary depending on your budget, but whether you're looking for 5 star all inclusive or a little beachside bungalow, this vast coastal area has it all.

You can choose to explore north Puntarenas with part of it in the Nicoya Peninsula, the area is famous for its great beaches, national parks, wicked surf breaks and exciting game fishing. This is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, its best to visit in the dry season, which runs from December through to April.

Head down the coast to south Puntarenas and immerse yourself in the Parque Nacional Corcovada, a nature lover's paradise, untouched and wild, rich and diverse, there's nothing like it in the world. Stay around Playa Uvita or Drake Bay for some lovely laid back towns with great diving and snorkelling.

You're in for a great adventure in the Puntarenas region, from wildlife to relaxation, take your time here and unwind in paradise.

(By Kelly Luckman)