According to Costa Rica's tourism ministry, some 80% of the visitorshere come for the white (or black) pristine beaches around the Southern Caribbean Coast. The Caribbean offers untouched nature, and according to one authoritative source, is the second most biologically diverse region in Costa Rica. Between Puerto Viejo and Cahuita to the north, some 30 kilometers, stretch nothing but long, empty beaches dotted with coral reefs. On this 3 to 4 hour walk you won't probably meet anybody. But make sure you bring water and waterproof suncreen if you decide to make this trip.
From Puerto Viejo south to Punta Mona (Monkey Point), about 25 km, is nothing but fabulous beachfront. Small, private beaches are interspersed with wide bays. Coconuts trees dot the white and black sand beaches mixed along the coast line, all the way to the border of Panama.
One of the most stunning swim spots along this coast is Punta Uva beach, about 8 km south of Puerto Viejo. Swimming is recommended and safe in this protected bay. The snorkeling is phenomenal but only under good weather conditions. This is also a great spot for kayaks, which are rented, along with snorkeling gear, by '"El Ranchito" restaurant on the beach
