- Home
-
Guide
Cahuita, Costa Rica π¨π·
#2066
,
Nomad Score:
64%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Cahuita is a small coastal town on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, renowned for its vibrant culture and stunning beaches. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 4,000 residents. |
π» Internet Speed | Average internet speeds are around 15-25 Mbps, depending on the provider and location. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 500 CRC. ATMs are available, but it's advisable to have some cash on hand. |
π° Tap Water | Tap water is generally considered drinkable, but bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | Electricity is 120V, 60Hz with Type A/B sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Popular mobile providers include Kolbi and Movistar. SIM cards can be purchased at stores and convenience shops. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Most major credit and debit cards are accepted; services like Revolut work well here. |
π Accommodation | Options range from hostels starting at $10 per night to Airbnb rentals around $40-$100 per night. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Limited cashless options; cash is still preferred in many places. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local hostels provide good options for short-term stays. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel Kinkajou offers beds for around $10 a night. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Staying near Cahuita National Park is preferred for easy beach access and local attractions. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Consider accommodations in the town center for better internet access and proximity to cafes. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Cahuita has limited coworking spaces; consider working from cafes with good Wi-Fi. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Cafeteria El Girasol offers a relaxed atmosphere and reliable Wi-Fi. |
πΌ Networking Events | Occasional meetups at local cafes, join local Facebook groups for digital nomads. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | The Cahuita Language Exchange is a popular weekly event for meeting locals and expats. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber is available in towns nearby, but local taxis are more commonly used. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Local shops offer bike rentals starting around $5 per day. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Cahuita Beach is just a few minutes walk from the town center. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Nature Air provides domestic flights to various locations. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | San JosΓ© Airport (SJO) is the main point of entry for international flights. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Cahuita is easily accessible via Route 36 (Costanera Sur). |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | The main hub is in LimΓ³n, with buses connecting to Cahuita. |
π Public Transport Passes | Buses to San JosΓ© are frequent, costing around $5-$10 one way. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses are the primary means of transport to nearby cities, including Puerto Viejo and LimΓ³n. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Hospital Tony Facio is the nearest major hospital located in LimΓ³n. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Cahuita Yoga and Wellness Center offers classes and wellness services. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Local gyms may not be available, consider outdoor activities for fitness. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Local laundromats and some hostels offer laundry services for around $5. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Uber Eats delivers food from local restaurants in nearby Puerto Viejo. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Patacones (fried green plantains) and rice & beans are local staples. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Kau-Kau Restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | PanaderΓa Cahuita serves delicious local pastries and sweets. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets sell fresh fruits and vegetables daily. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Locally, you may find items at local shops; larger online purchases can be made via Amazon. |
π Grocery Delivery | Grocery delivery services are limited; local stores are the best option. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Cabo Blanco and La Ruka are popular nightlife spots in Cahuita. |
π» Local Brewery | Cerveza Craft is a local brewery known for its craft beers. |
π· Wine Bars | Cahuita has limited wine bars, but some restaurants offer a good selection. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Local food stalls offer tasty empanadas and ceviche. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Pizza and pasta are available at several restaurants in the town. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Cahuita National Park is a must-visit for its biodiversity and beautiful trails. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The Cahuita Wildlife Sanctuary showcases local wildlife and education. |
π° Historical Sites | Cahuita's cultural heritage can be explored in the local community and architecture. |
π Religious Sites | Local churches, such as the Cahuita Church, reflect the town's heritage. |
π Annual Events | The Cahuita Carnival, featuring local music and dance, occurs in February. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | La Playa district is vibrant with local artwork and crafts. |
π Theater Venues | Cultural performances may take place at local community centers. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The Cahuita Farmers Market operates on Saturdays and offers local produce and crafts. |
πΌ Music Scene | Local bars host live music nights focusing on reggae and calypso genres. |
π¨ Street Art | Local murals reflect the Caribbean culture and are scattered throughout the town. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Classes are available through local chefs offering Caribbean cuisine experiences. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Local artists exhibit their work in small galleries around town. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Several wooden structures reflect the town's colonial past. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Cahuita is known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage, prominently celebrated in festivals. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Explore the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge for diverse wildlife and hikes. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Cahuita National Park is the main national park, perfect for hiking and snorkeling. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | The coastal path from Cahuita to Puerto Viejo is popular for biking and walking. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Lookout points at Cahuita National Park offer breathtaking ocean views. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | The national park is a prime spot for observing various bird species. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Some beach areas allow bonfires; check local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and local postal services are available for parcel delivery. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Limited tech repair services are available; consider taking devices to LimΓ³n for more options. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Community centers may offer ping pong tables. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Language schools in nearby Puerto Viejo offer Spanish classes. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Local cafes provide good study atmospheres, though a dedicated library is not available. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Community gatherings often take place at local cultural centers. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Limited gaming options; focus on outdoor or community activities instead. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no casinos in Cahuita; the focus is on natural attractions. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $72,000) |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $60,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $132,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $108,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $200,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $160,000) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | The corporate tax rate is approximately 30%. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | Applicable rate is about 15%. |
π¦ Tax System | Residents are taxed on worldwide income. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate is around 25%. |
π§Ύ VAT | Value Added Tax is set at 13%. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, Costa Rica has regulations regarding CFC taxation. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax is generally around 0.25%. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Transaction tax during property purchases is approximately 1.5%. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Costa Rica offers various tax incentives for digital nomads via self-employment schemes. |