Once the largest open water port in Costa Rica with a proud history of exporting some of the country’s finest goods, Puntarenas on the northern tip of the Central Pacific coastline, has largely fallen from grace in recent years. The opening of a new railway line and a bigger port at Puerto Caldera killed off the town’s thriving economy, leaving it to survive largely on tourism.

As Puntarenas is the closest coastal town to San José, residents flock to the surrounding beaches to enjoy the cool breeze coming off the Pacific, although most of the water (except south of the point) is polluted.

Many travellers regard Puntarenas as a dirty, filthy port city which should be avoided. However, its ferry is the cheapest way to get to the beaches of Southern Nicoya.

Tourist Offices
The town provides Internet access, there is a hospital and the major banks will exchange money. They also have 24 hour ATMs.

Around and closeby
Take a boat tour to the uninhabited islands of the peninsula. Isla Tortuga is made up of two islands, there are great snorkelling conditions here and the beaches are covered in fine white sand. Isla San Lucas has the ruins of what was once the most infamous prison in Latin America.

Sightseeing
A must see is the beautiful Playa Hermosa. With beaches on the Pacific Ocean, it attracts many tourists, especially surfers. It is also a possible stopover point for the touristy Monteverde, further inland. Go and see the manta rays and other Pacific creatures at the Puntarenas Marine Park, at the site of the old train station.

If you're around on the Saturday closest to the 16th July then you'll catch the Fiesta de la Virgen del Mar. All the fishing boats and yachts are beautifully decorated as they sail around the harbour seeking protection from the Virgen for the next year at sea. There are also boat races, a carnival and lots of food, drinking and dancing.

Getting there
If you’re getting the car ferry to Paquera or Playa Naranjo, get to the dock early as the vehicle section fills up quickly and you may miss out. Also make sure you buy your ticket before driving onto the ferry. No ticket, no boat!

Express buses leave from San José at Avenida 12, Calle 6.

If you have a car leave San José, heading west along General Canãs highway for about 90 minutes and follow the signs.

Getting around
The local buses can take you from the market to Playa Donã Ana and Mata de Limon. Buses marked ferry will take you into the town centre and to the ferry terminal.