It's not uncommon to feel like you have Playa Negra to yourself

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It's not uncommon to feel like you have Playa Negra to yourself. Photo by Doug Dosdall

Miles of Black Sand Beach to Explore

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Playa Negra is a black sand beach which stretches more than 10km from the west entrance of Puerto Viejo town all the way northeast to Cahuita National Park. The beach is well suited to beginning surfers at the west end near town (where you'll find the overgrown barge). Traveling further north it becomes a very quiet beach especially once the highway goes inland and you may indeed have it to yourself, or perhaps share it with a few wild horses! Do ask about local surf conditions before swimming, there can be strong waves and/or riptides at some times of year.

North of the highway turn off the area tends to be mostly residential with hotels catering to a quieter stay and many vacation rental options. However there are also some restaurants and some shopping along Playa Negra. Depending on how far north of town you are located it is well suited for cycling or walking into town should you want something that can only be found in Puerto Viejo. Buses also run along the main highway on a regular schedule but not along the smaller roads after the highway turns inland toward Hone Creek. After dark, a taxi is recommended between town and Playa Negra hotels. Check the local transport page for more details.

Further north towards Cahuita National Park even the small 4x4 track ends and it becomes very remote. Walking here by yourself or trying to walk to the national park is not recommended for security reasons. Please refer to the safety page for more information. Note there is also a separate beach in Cahuita named Playa Negra, check our Cahuita page for details on listings and information for that area.

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Hotels

Mecca

Mecca Puerto Viejo Satellite supporter
 Guaria Morada Room Amapola Room Girasol Room

Boutique adult-only hotel with three cozy, ensuite rooms that are styled to highlight local textiles, architecture, and artwork. Located 5 minutes from the beach and a 15 minute walk to town. Created by an African-American woman who fell in love with the Southern Caribbean lifestyle of Costa Rica, Mecca is a place of peace, relaxation and rejuvenation.
 +1 619 890 4851
 Book directly with property
 Average room rate: $75
 Average rating: 98 Exceptional
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Banana Azul

Banana Azul

Tropical Beachfront Boutique Hotel with 25 rooms Located on the quiet sandy beach of Playa Negra. Banana Azul is limited to adults over age of 16 and offers restaurant, bar, pool and tour kiosk. Beach views, tropical gardens, comfortable rooms, many with A/C, & friendly staff.
 +506 2750-2035 / +1 305 846-8220
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $100
 Average rating: 89 Excellent
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Cabinas Kuákua

Cabinas Kuákua

Small hotel with 6 rooms over two floors each with two beds, private bath. Rancho with fully equipped shared kitchen & lounge/dining area.
 +506 8960 7794
 Average room rate: $65
 Average rating: 82 Very Good
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Casa Jessica Changes in Latitude

Casa Jessica Changes in Latitude

Three rental suites plus owner's suite in a beachfront house. Less than 50 meters from the ocean and surrounded by nature. The Jungle Suite has a king bed, private deck with hammock. The Ocean Suite has a queen bed and is closer to the ocean. The Cayman Suite has a queen bed plus bunk beds, 4 seat island.
 +506 6002 9869, +1 208 733 9352
 View on booking.com
 Average rating: 98 Exceptional
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Casa Renada

Casa Renada

Three apartments set in a lush garden with a large pool all just 200 m to the beach. Each apartment has a well equipped kitchen, bath, bedroom with 2 queen sized beds, living room and its own patio with chairs and hammock.
 +506 2750 0170
 Average room rate: $90
 Average rating: 100 Exceptional
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Casitas Las Flores

Casitas Las Flores

Property nestled in the jungle 1 km from Puerto Viejo and 300 m from Playa Negra. All bungalows have a porch with garden views, a private bathroom including free toiletries and each bedroom is equipped with a fan and a mosquito net over the bed. Larger bungalows are equipped with a full kitchen with stove, fridge and kitchenware as well as a dining area. The smaller bungalow has a fridge in the room but it does not have a kitchen or dining area.
 +506 8343 7810
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $75
 Average rating: 93 Excellent
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Hidden Jungle Beach House

Hidden Jungle Beach House

Small guest house with four guest rooms. You'll share the 2 bathrooms and the kitchen with the owners and other guests.
 +506 8310 5061
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $46
 Average rating: 88 Excellent
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Hotel One Love

Hotel One Love

Hotel and hostel with rooms, dorms and an apartment.
 +506 8408 8073
 View on booking.com
 Average rating: 85 Very Good
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Kaya's Place

Kaya's Place

26 room lodge on the Black Beach. Built in the Afro-Caribbean "Rustico" style, the hotel is artistic and unique. Variety of rooms from shared bath to suites to cabins. Onsite restaurant, bar and micro-craft brewery. Hotel also called Hotel Playa Negra Brewing.
 +506 2750-0690, (US) +1 802-489-0217
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $48
 Average rating: 74 Good
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Olivia del Caribe

Olivia del Caribe

Bed and breakfast accommodation. Double rooms and a suite with a kitchen. Pool. Or the whole 5 bedroom property can be rented for retreats and events.
 +506 6273 7485
 View on booking.com
 Average rating: 89 Excellent
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Perla Negra Beachfront

Perla Negra Beachfront

Beachfront hotel. All rooms with patio or balcony with view of sea or garden. Double, triple and quad/family rooms as well as studios, apartments with kitchenettes. Pool.
 +506 8301 5726
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $75
 Average rating: 78 Good
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El Pizote Lodge

El Pizote Lodge

One of the Puerto Viejo's first hotels, they offer rooms, bungalows and vacation houses in a jungle setting, all with private bath. Swimming pool. Standard rooms can accommodate 2 to 6 persons. Bungalows for up to 4 persons. Vacation homes in a variety of sizes for up to 10 people, some with A/C and kitchens.
 +506 2750 0088
 Average room rate: $80
 Average rating: 69
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La Prometida

La Prometida

Boutique hotel with swimming pool. Modern bright rooms with private bath, A/C, balcony or patio.
 +1 646 474 8877
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $150
 Average rating: 98 Exceptional
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Saranda Hotel Boutique

Saranda Hotel Boutique

Recently built boutique hotel with 21 unique circular rooms, some with private external bath and some with shared bath. Restaurant, bar, pool. Opened in January 2023.
 +506 8347 9333
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $100
 Average rating: 94 Excellent
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Sonora Jungle Retreat

Sonora Jungle Retreat

Situated in the jungle about 1 km from the beach, this property offers 8 bungalows all with private bathroom and 2 loft-style houses with kitchens. All with ample terraces. Swimming pool and breakfast area. Da Alessandra restaurant for dinner.
 +506 4600 1111
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $100
 Average rating: 91 Excellent
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Sunshine Caribe

Sunshine Caribe

Rooms with private bath, kitchenette, tv and some with A/C. Garden setting a short walk from Playa Negra and Puerto Viejo Centre. Secure parking.
 +506 2750 0401, 2250 0941
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $85
 Average rating: 89 Excellent
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Villas Allen

Villas Allen

One and two bedroom houses accommodating up to 6 people. Fully equipped with kitchen, fridge, coffee maker, microwave, cable TV, fan. Pool, free wireless, green areas, parking, laundry service, bikes for rent, tour information.
 +506 2756 8327
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $100
 Average rating: 87 Very Good
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Vacation Rentals

Caripro Apartments

Caripro Apartments Puerto Viejo Satellite supporter
 https://86227_3.holidayfuture.com/

Four apartments with air conditioning located 7 minutes from Puerto Viejo, 2 minutes from the Playa Negra beach. The building features A/C, fans, WiFi, floor to ceiling windows, bathroom with hot water shower & kitchenettes in some units. This property is located in a busy area so guests might experience some noise. Bicycles are available at the property for an extra cost. Free private parking is available on site.
 +506 2750 2035
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $75
 Average rating: 88 Excellent
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Casa Luna Beach House

Casa Luna Beach House Puerto Viejo Satellite supporter
 casalunabeachhouse.com

A gorgeous vacation rental on the beach. Three bedroom, 3 bath house. Each bedroom each with A/C and ensuite bath. Plunge pool, fibre optic wifi, secure parking. There are 2 bedrooms upstairs, spacious living room with open kitchen that flows right onto the deck which looks out over the beach. Downstairs there is a semi-private 1 bedroom unit with 2 queen beds, its own living area and kitchenette as well as the pool and deck chairs. Sleeps 6 people.
 Book directly with property
 Average room rate: $400
 Average rating: 98 Exceptional
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Casa Roble de Playa Negra

Casa Roble de Playa Negra Puerto Viejo Satellite supporter
 casaroblecr.com

Vacation rental home set in a spacious tropical garden just 300 meters (5-minute walk) from the beaches of Playa Negra. This one-story beach house has a primary bedroom with a queen bed, a second bedroom with a queen bed and twin bed, one bathroom, and a fully stocked kitchen. Ideal for couples, families, groups up to 5 people.
 View on VRBO
 Average room rate: $75
 Average rating: 96 Exceptional
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Magic Moon Beach House

Magic Moon Beach House Puerto Viejo Satellite supporter
 MagicMoonCR.com

Truly beachfront house, only 50 meters away from the ocean. Spacious house with huge veranda. It can be rented in either 2 or 3 bedroom configurations (with or without the lower floor). The house has a large modern kitchen and is fully equipped with all the modern conveniences.
 View on VRBO
 Average room rate: $149
 Average rating: 96 Exceptional
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Villa Abejita

Villa Abejita Puerto Viejo Satellite supporter

Spacious house close to beach, with private pool, a/c, high-speed satellite WiFi, workspaces, gas grill, well-provided kitchen, secure parking for 3 cars, and tropical garden. It sleeps up to 10 people. Families welcome.
 +506 6461 4110
 View on VRBO
 Average room rate: $225
 Average rating: 100 Exceptional
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Be My Guest Cabinas

Be My Guest Cabinas

Property with 4 studio apartments, pool, and some units with AC.
 +506 2756 8376
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $90
 Average rating: 84 Very Good
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The Black Pearl

The Black Pearl

Vacation rental home with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, private pool. New home with modern design, high speed internet, A/C in all rooms. Fully equipped kitchen, filtered water.
 +1 914 954 8412
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $340
 Average rating: 60
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Blessed House

Blessed House

Twelve bungalows set in a large 1.5 ha (3.7 acres) property. Bungalows vary in size and can accommodate from 2 to 8 persons. Each has a private bathroom and equipped kitchen. The property has a pool and bbq area for use by all guests.
 +506 8926 2630
 Average rating: 92 Excellent
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Cabinas GACU

Cabinas GACU

Two studio apartments and 1 2-bedroom-apartment, all with satellite TV, fan, kitchenette, bathroom and free on-site parking. Just 2 minutes walking to the lush, unpopulated beach.
 +506 8432 7821, 8606 5710
 Average rating: 84 Very Good
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Casa Corazon del Mar

Casa Corazon del Mar

This guest house is a unique adobe style dome home situated in the lush rainforest of Costa Rica just a 3 minute walk from the Caribbean ocean. Includes amenities such as fully furnished kitchen, a spa style shower, beautiful jungle views, a plunge pool, and an observation/relaxation platform with adirondack chairs and hammock.
 +506 8417 3417
 Average room rate: $150
 Average rating: 100 Exceptional
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Casa Galim Beach House

Casa Galim Beach House

Vacation rental house with two stories. There are separately rented 2 bedroom/ 1 bathroom units on each floor. Each unit has a living room and an equipped kitchen. Just 200 meters from the beach. Also known as Blue Morpho Beach House.
 +506 2750 0224, 8919 0837
 View on VRBO
 Average room rate: $115
 Average rating: 88 Excellent
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Casa Theia

Casa Theia

Two bright, airy and modern vacation rental homes. Each with one bedroom, private bath, equipped kitchen and focus on outdoor living.
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $90
 Average rating: 86 Very Good
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Casita Kreyol

Casita Kreyol

1 bedroom tiny house, comfy full size bed w pillows/linen, full kitchen w/induction cooktop, kitchen utensils, coffee station, toaster, A/C, refrigerator, fiber optic Wifi, ceiling fan, all screened windows, hot water indoor shower, outdoor shower w/cool water, TV w/Netflix. Ideal for couples or single travelers.
 +1 917 535 3309
 Average room rate: $79
 Average rating: 100 Exceptional
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Las Casitas de Playa Negra

Las Casitas de Playa Negra

Full equipped apartments, 2 bedrooms, kitchen and livingroom. Just 100mt from the beach and 5 minutes to Puerto Viejo
 +506 2756- 8385
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $50
 Average rating: 79 Good
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Casitas Joanna

Casitas Joanna

Two floor condominium less than 100 meters from the Caribbean Sea. Each condo is fully-furnished and includes: 2 bedrooms (each with a private bathroom with hot water), air conditioning in the master bedroom, one powder room, a kitchen with cooking/serving utensils, a living room, and free WiFi internet access, pet friendly. 5 occupants max.
 +506 8399 4294
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $80
 Average rating: 68
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Chimuri Beach Retreat

Chimuri Beach Retreat

Three equipped, authentic Caribbean cottages for personal retreat time; daily (3 night minimum), weekly and monthly rates. Ananda Yoga studio on property with regular classes.
 +506 2750-0119
 Average room rate: $70
 Average rating: 92 Excellent
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Escondido Retreat

Escondido Retreat

Luxurious 6 bedroom vacation rental home. Two storey house, each floor has 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths. The downstairs consists of an indoor/outdoor kitchen and dining area that connects to the pool pathway and deck area. The upstairs has a large space with two tables that can be used to work or just hang out and enjoy the surrounding jungle views. Private pool.
 View on VRBO
 Average room rate: $500
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El Jardin de Playa Negra

El Jardin de Playa Negra

Caribbean style vacation rental houses in a tropical garden. Options suitable for 2 to 6 persons. Casa Chiquita, Casa Terraza, Casa Amarilla and Casa Naranja. All with hot showers, wifi and equipped kitchens. All run by Romina and Paolo, an Italian couple.
 +506 8555 8635
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $70
 Average rating: 90 Excellent
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The Mimosas Container Homes

The Mimosas Container Homes

Two container homes in a tropical garden setting with a pool. Each has one bedroom, bath and an equipped kitchen.
 View on booking.com
 Average rating: 79 Good
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Peggys Paradise

Peggy's Paradise

Four vacation rental studios equipped with kitchenette, queen bed, private bath, A/C, fiber optic wifi. 5 minute walk to beach & restaurants, 1 km to downtown PV. Pool, outdoor lounge. Local tours and excursions and relocation guidance.
 Average room rate: $75
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Petrea the Romantic Pool House

Petrea the Romantic Pool House

Unique one bedroom open concept vacation rental home with plunge pool.
 +506 8381 6837
 Average room rate: $189
 Average rating: 100 Exceptional
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Puerto Viejo Club

Puerto Viejo Club

Property with large salt water pool which has several vacation rental houses.
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $150
 Average rating: 90 Excellent
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Sloth House 2

Sloth House 2

Vacation rental home with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath and private pool. Fully equipped kitchen. Eco friendly design. Previously named Casa de Barro
 +506 8320 6571
 Average room rate: $195
 Average rating: 98 Exceptional
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Villa Aragon

Villa Aragon

Private Villa with AC, fiber optics, beach access & salt water pool. Located in Playa Negra Heights area of Puerto Viejo, this well-equipped vacation home rental features 3 full bedrooms (w/ king size beds and AC), 1 semi-private bedroom (w/ queen size bed), 2 full bathrooms, 1 half outdoor bathroom, 2 al fresco showers, a spacious living room, a fully equipped kitchen, a large terrace with dining area, a pool house, loungers around the pool, a sundeck, hammocks, BBQ station and parking for up to 5 cars. Private and fenced property.
 +506 8630 0659
 View on VRBO
 Average room rate: $300
 Average rating: 97 Exceptional
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Villas Banana Verde

Villas Banana Verde

A vacation rental option with the services of a hotel, it is owned and operated by Banana Azul. Each unit has 2 levels, private garden, private "cool" plunge pool, full kitchen, king bed, sleeps 4, 2 baths, AC and an outdoor dining area. Access to all of the amenities that Banana Azul offers including pool, restaurant and beach club.
 +506 2750-2035 / +1 305 846-8220
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $185
 Average rating: 88 Excellent
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Villas de la Luz

Villas de la Luz

Vacation rental home on three levels with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, equipped kitchen, large patio and pool on property.
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $80
 Average rating: 99 Exceptional
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Villas Luna Africana by Palmer

Villas Luna Africana by Palmer

Studio and 2 bedroom vacation rental apartments with kitchens. Pool.
 +506 6487 6758
 View on booking.com
 Average rating: 92 Excellent
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Villas Mapache del Caribe

Villas Mapache del Caribe

Two bedroom vacation rental homes with a pool 300 meters walk from Playa Negra. Each apartment has two bedrooms, one bathroom, fully equipped kitchen, living room and terrace.
 +506 8580 2948
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $160
 Average rating: 92 Excellent
 View on map

Villas Piña

Villas Piña

"Pineapple villas" are 6 newly constructed private villas in a garden setting with private beach path. There is a common rancho area with swimming pool, breakfast area and a large roof top deck for sunning and star gazing. Each villa has A/C, hot water, kitchenette, private large balcony, 2 queen beds, safe, wifi. Breakfast included.
 +506 2750 3176
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $125
 Average rating: 99 Exceptional
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Villas Serenidad

Villas Serenidad

Two custom-built hardwood cottage and one larger villa, each with vaulted cathedral ceilings, ceiling fans and a spectacular view of the ocean. Each overlooks lush tropical gardens, designed by an award-winning landscape designer and just 50 meters from the surf, at the quiet Playa Negra beach. Each cottage has a king bed and full bathroom. The larger home with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. All are equipped with fully-equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi and private parking.
 View on booking.com
 Average room rate: $167
 Average rating: 96 Exceptional
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Yoshi's on the Beach

Yoshi's on the Beach

Three bedroom vacation rental home. Each of the bedrooms has an ensuire bathroom and is air conditioned. Modern home with equipped kitchen and spacious indoor/outdoor living areas.
 +506 8564 1550
 View on booking.com
 Average rating: 98 Exceptional
 View on map

Bars

Playa Negra Brewing

Playa Negra Brewing

Micro-craft brewery dedicated to making handcrafted all-grain fine ales. Restaurant.
 +506 2750 0690
 Average rating: 78 Good
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Restaurants

Azul Bar and Grill

Azul Bar and Grill

Restaurant, bar and beach club. Beach service starts at 6am daily. This popular restaurant also serves breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Breakfast is included for hotel guests but others are welcome for a fee. They offer free access to high-speed fiber optic internet connection for customers.
 +506 2750-2035
 Average rating: 88 Excellent
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Hardware, Building Supplies, Nurseries

Almacen San Francisco

Almacen San Francisco

Hardware store and building materials retailer.
 +506 2756 8478
 Average rating: 84 Very Good
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Miscellaneous shopping

Flor de China

Flor de China

Offers a variety of housewares, baby supplies, electronics, games, gifts, beach supplies
 Average rating: 86 Very Good
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Supermarkets and Other Groceries

Super Banana Gourmet Market

Super Banana Gourmet Market

Gourmet grocery store. Groceries, fresh produce, beer and wine, coffee, takeaway meals.
 Average rating: 88 Excellent
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Super SK

Super SK

New larger modern supermarket where the old pulperia was.
 +506 2750 0392
 Average rating: 92 Excellent
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Tours and Activities

Finca La Isla Botanical Garden

Finca La Isla Botanical Garden

See frogs, birds & flowers. Smell tropical flora and spices. Taste natural chocolate & fruits in a nature park setting. Garden has been in cultivation for more than 20 years.
 +506 8829 4229
 Average rating: 89 Excellent
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Talamanca Chocolate

Talamanca Chocolate

Learn the entire process from tree to bar, making chocolate from scratch: roasting, grinding, tempering then molding. With tasting all along the way. There will be lots to learn and taste, from flavour development to label design, this is a full experience.
 +506 8910 9318
 Average rating: 97 Exceptional
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Travel Agencies: Tour Sales, Transport, Hotel Reservations

Caribe Fun Tours

Caribe Fun Tours

Tour company operating out of Hotel Banana Azul that offers local tours plus transportation options to and from Puerto Viejo.
 +506 2756 8118
 Average rating: 98 Exceptional
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Community Organizations

Chamber of Tourism and Commerce Caribe Sur

Chamber of Tourism and Commerce Caribe Sur

Non-profit organization that promotes sustainable tourism and businesses in the South Caribbean.
 +506 2750 3117
 Average rating: 84 Very Good
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El Puente-The Bridge

El Puente-The Bridge
 elpuentethebridge.org

The Bridge provides educational assistance, food assistance, and microloans mainly to indigenous people in the southeastern part of Costa Rica. Our goal is to help people help themselves to self-sufficiency.
 +506 8771 9702, US phone: +1 970-389-4327
 Average rating: 96 Exceptional
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Police, Ambulance, Fire

Puerto Viejo Police Station

Puerto Viejo Police Station

The police in Costa Rica are responsible for enforcing the peace and responding to active crimes. The OIJ with taking crime reports and investigating. See the safety page for more information. Call 911 in an emergency. This is the location of the main police station, there is also a satellite office in the center of town and an office of the Tourist Police in Cahuita.
 +506 2750 0230
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Medical and Health

Laboratorio Clínico Leysa

Laboratorio Clínico Leysa

Performs stool, urine, reproductive, COVID-19, hematology, blood chemistry, hormones, medications, drug abuse, immunology, tumor markers, bacterial and fungal smears and cultures, and water analysis.
 +506 8655 5082
 Average rating: 100 Exceptional
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Additional comments from our visitors about Playa Negra

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What are people saying about us?

Kaleigh

What are rip tide/water conditions like during the Middle of June to the beginning of July?

May 14, 2014

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