Ojochal, Costa Rica 🇨🇷
#2067
,
Nomad Score:
66%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Ojochal is a small, picturesque village located on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, known for its lush nature and vibrant culture. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 1,500 |
| 💻 Internet Speed | 25 Mbps (varies depending on provider) |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD ≈ 620 CRC. Most transactions can be done using the Costa Rican colón. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Generally drinkable, but bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | 120V, 60Hz, 🔌 Type A/B sockets |
| 📶 SIM Card | Kolbi, Claro, and Movistar are common providers offering good coverage. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Cash and cards accepted widely; international banking is limited, but ATMs are available. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options range from Airbnb to local guesthouses with prices starting at $30/night. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, although some local shops may only accept cash. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb is the best platform for short-term rentals with many unique properties available. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel Ojo is a popular budget option, starting at $15/night. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Near the beach and local restaurants, around Playa Tortuga. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The central area close to coworking spaces and cafes. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | The Sanctuary in Ojochal is ideal for remote work with reliable internet. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Café de Ojochal offers a cozy atmosphere and good coffee. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Monthly meetups at The Sanctuary for digital nomads and freelancers. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Expats in Ojochal Facebook group organizes regular gatherings. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber is not widely available, local taxis can be used. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Several local shops offer bicycle rental services. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Playa Tortuga, known for its serene beauty. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Sansa Airlines operates flights to and from San Jose. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Lufthansa and American Airlines have flights to Costa Rica. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Costa Rica Route 34 (Costanera Sur) provides access to other regions. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | There is no train service; buses are the main public transport. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Local buses run frequently between towns, no formal pass system. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses connect Ojochal to cities like Uvita and San Isidro. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Clinica Ojochal for minor health issues. Major hospitals are in Uvita. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga en Ojochal offers classes with stunning views. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Local options are limited; outdoor workouts are popular. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Lava Express offers laundry services in the village. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | No widespread delivery apps; local restaurants may provide delivery. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Gallo Pinto (rice and beans) is a must-try traditional dish. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | A variety of restaurants offer excellent vegetarian cuisine; try Bocados. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Helados Ojo offers delicious homemade ice cream. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local farmers markets provide fresh produce and budget-friendly shopping. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Walmart Costa Rica is an option for online grocery shopping. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Local grocers may offer delivery upon request in Ojochal. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Local bars like Casa de la Cultura offer a laid-back nightlife. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Cerveza Artesanal de Ojochal specializes in local craft beers. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | La Cueva Del Oso offers a selection of wines in a relaxed setting. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Try local empanadas from vendors around the village. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Café delicias serves excellent Italian food. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The unique waterfall at Ojochal is a hidden gem worth visiting. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Nearby Uvita features several art galleries. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Check out local historical plaques that tell the story of the village. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The local church has a beautiful architecture and is a community hub. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Dia de la Cultura is celebrated annually with local festivities. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Ojochal presents a mix of expat culture blended with local traditions. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | There are no dedicated theaters; local events often occur in community centers. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Farmers markets are popular on weekends, offering local products. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live music events occasionally held at bars and community gatherings. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Mural art from local artists can be found around town. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Cooking classes that focus on Costa Rican cuisine are offered at various local spots. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Art Oasis showcases works by local artisans. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Local small churches reflect the architectural history of the village. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The area is rich in biodiversity and showcases the Costa Rican lifestyle. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | The Marina Ballena National Park offers stunning landscapes and wildlife. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Corcovado National Park is approximately 1.5 hours away, famous for its wildlife. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Various scenic paths along the coast are perfect for cycling or walking. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Head to the cliffs near Playa Tortuga for breathtaking views of the sunset. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Ojochal is home to a variety of bird species; local guides can help you spot them. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Certain beach areas near Ojochal allow bonfires; check local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local post offices offer parcel delivery, but options may be slower. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Limited tech repair services; recommended to visit San Isidro for major repairs. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Community centers may have facilities available. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Local language schools offer Spanish courses for beginners. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Community centers can serve as study spots. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | The local community center is a gathering spot for various activities. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Gaming venues are limited in the area. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos are available; nearby towns might have some options. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $48,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $40,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,100 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $66,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $900 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $54,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,050 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $84,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $800 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $64,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 30% |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 15% |
| 🏦 Tax System | Residency-based taxation; non-residents are only taxed on Costa Rican income. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 25% |
| 🧾 VAT | 13% |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are regulations for tax on foreign entities. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | 1.25% of the property value per year. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | 1.5% of the purchase price. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No capital gains tax; favorable tax treaties available. |