Destination Spotlight: Puntarenas

Our Experience in Puntarenas, Costa Rica: A Hidden Gem on Our Panama Canal Cruise

During our recent Panama Canal cruise, one of the most memorable stops was in Puntarenas, Costa Rica. While this coastal town isn’t as famous as other Costa Rican destinations, it left a lasting impression on us with its charm, authenticity, and stunning natural beauty. If you’re considering a cruise that includes Puntarenas or planning a trip to Costa Rica, here’s a glimpse of what we experienced and why we think Puntarenas deserves a spot on your travel list.

First Impressions

As soon as our ship docked, I was greeted by the warm, tropical breeze and the sight of the bustling Paseo de los Turistas, a lively waterfront promenade lined with shops, street vendors, and restaurants. There was a sense of excitement in the air, with locals and visitors alike enjoying the laid-back beach town vibe.

Exploring Puntarenas

Puntarenas has a slower pace compared to some of the other cruise ports we've visited, which we found refreshing. The Paseo de los Turistas was a great place to start our day. We walked along the beach, stopping by local vendors selling souvenirs and handmade crafts. The highlight here was trying a granizado, a Costa Rican shaved ice treat with sweet syrup, condensed milk, and powdered milk. It was perfect for cooling down in the warm weather.

Isla Tortuga Adventure

One of the top excursions offered from Puntarenas is a trip to Isla Tortuga, and we couldn’t resist. A short boat ride whisked us away to this idyllic island with powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters. It was like stepping into a postcard. We spent the afternoon snorkeling, relaxing on the beach, and soaking up the sun. If you’re a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful escape, Isla Tortuga is a must-do.

Local Flavors

Back in town, we couldn’t leave without trying some of the local cuisine. we stopped at a small beachfront restaurant and ordered ceviche de pescado, a refreshing dish made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, onions, and cilantro. Paired with an ice-cold local beer, it was the perfect way to enjoy the ocean views and wind down after our island adventure.

Unexpected Highlights

One of the most surprising aspects of our visit to Puntarenas was how genuinely welcoming and friendly the locals were. Whether we was browsing through shops or asking for directions, everyone we encountered was eager to share their town and culture. It made the experience feel even more special and authentic.

Puntarenas may not be a bustling tourist hub, but that’s part of what makes it such a hidden gem. From the vibrant promenade to the breathtaking beauty of Isla Tortuga, there’s a lot to love about this coastal town. If you’re on a Panama Canal cruise or simply visiting Costa Rica, we highly recommend spending some time in Puntarenas. It’s a place that offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and local culture, all wrapped up in the warm embrace of Costa Rican hospitality.

Puntarenas may not have been on our radar before this trip, but now, it’s a place we won’t soon forget. 🌴🌊 Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for additional surprises and videos.

---

Tropical Sunset Travel, LLC is an expert travel agency based in Charleston, South Carolina. We book travel for couples, families, and groups to travel to destinations around the world. No matter what type of vacation you are dreaming of, our travel services can assist you. We also feature top vacation package options to help inspire you!  The Tropical Sunset Travel Blog is a great place to learn about top destinations and vacation options. Please visit our website for agency information and more. Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more travel information and deals!