Why You’ll Fall in Love with Cahuita National Park
A lush Caribbean escape filled with wildlife, pristine beaches, and coral reefs — discover why Cahuita National Park belongs on your Costa Rica travel list.
If you’re dreaming of palm-fringed beaches, dense rainforests alive with wildlife, and the sounds of the Caribbean, Cahuita National Park should be your next stop. Nestled on Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean coast, this protected paradise is one of the country’s most treasured national parks.
Here are 10 fascinating facts to inspire your next adventure.
1. It’s One of the Oldest National Parks in Costa Rica
Cahuita National Park was established in 1970 as a national monument and later declared a national park in 1978. It was created to protect the area’s vibrant coral reefs, beaches, and diverse rainforest ecosystems.
2. Home to One of the Largest Coral Reefs in Costa Rica
Just offshore lies a stunning 600-acre coral reef, home to over 35 species of coral, 120 species of fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. It’s one of the most important coral reef systems along Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast.
3. You Can Snorkel in Crystal-Clear Waters
Snorkeling tours in Cahuita offer a chance to see colorful fish, stingrays, and even nurse sharks in their natural habitat. The park’s shallow, clear waters make it one of the best snorkeling destinations in Costa Rica.
4. Entrance Is Donation-Based
Unlike many national parks, Cahuita National Park operates on a donation-based entry at the Cahuita town entrance. Visitors are encouraged to contribute to the park’s conservation efforts.
5. Wildlife is Everywhere
The park’s dense forests are teeming with wildlife. Look out for howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, sloths, raccoons, iguanas, and exotic birds like toucans and herons.
6. It’s a Sea Turtle Nesting Ground
From July to October, endangered leatherback, hawksbill, and green sea turtles come ashore to nest along Cahuita’s beaches, offering a rare and unforgettable wildlife encounter.
7. The Park Protects Mangrove Swamps and Wetlands
Beyond its beaches and reefs, Cahuita is also home to important mangrove swamps and coastal wetlands, essential habitats for birds and marine species.
8. It Offers One of the Most Scenic Coastal Hiking Trails
The park’s 8.5-kilometer (5.3-mile) trail runs along the coast, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, secluded beaches, and opportunities for wildlife spotting at every turn.
9. Cahuita Has a Deep Afro-Caribbean Culture
The nearby town of Cahuita is rich in Afro-Caribbean heritage. Visitors can enjoy reggae rhythms, traditional Creole cuisine, and the warm hospitality of the local community.
10. It’s Ideal for a Relaxed, Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience
Unlike some of Costa Rica’s busier tourist destinations, Cahuita remains refreshingly laid-back. It’s perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds while staying immersed in nature.
Ready to Experience Cahuita National Park?
Plan your Costa Rican adventure today and explore one of the country’s most captivating coastal parks.
Whether you hike, snorkel, or simply unwind on the beach, Cahuita’s natural beauty will leave you inspired.