Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica is a laid-back gateway to wild jungles, volcanic landscapes, and the vibrant culture of the country’s Pacific coast.
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Wind Star
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Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica
1 Sailing
Feb 8, 2027
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Wind Star
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Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica
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Feb 8, 2027
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Star Legend
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Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica
2 Sailings
Jan 12 - Jan 26, 2027
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Star Pride
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Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica
1 Sailing
Jan 3, 2026
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Star Pride
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Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica
1 Sailing
Feb 2, 2026
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Star Legend
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Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica
2 Sailings
Jan 12 - Jan 26, 2027
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Wind Star
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Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica
3 Sailings
Dec 12, 2026 - Jan 24, 2027
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Star Legend
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Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica
1 Sailing
Dec 28, 2026
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Star Legend
From
Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica
1 Sailing
Dec 28, 2026
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Star Legend
From
Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica
1 Sailing
Feb 9, 2027
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Overview
Located near the town of Puntarenas, Puerto Caldera is a key port for exploring Costa Rica’s natural wonders. The area is known for its rugged coastline, swaying palm trees, and access to some of the country’s top eco-adventures. From here, you can easily venture inland to experience rainforest zip-lining, wildlife reserves, and lush national parks like Carara or Monteverde.
The nearby town of Puntarenas offers a glimpse into everyday Costa Rican life, with open-air seafood restaurants, a long beachfront promenade, and vendors selling local treats like granizados (shaved ice). While smaller and more low-key than other cities, it gives visitors a taste of the country’s warm, easygoing spirit and coastal charm.
For those craving outdoor thrills or nature immersion, this part of Costa Rica doesn’t disappoint. Day trips to waterfalls, volcanoes, or coffee plantations are all within reach, making Puerto Caldera a perfect launch point for discovering the diverse beauty and biodiversity the country is famous for. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, this port balances both with pura vida ease.
Start your day with a visit to the Tarcoles River, located about 20 minutes from Puerto Caldera. This river is famous for its abundant wildlife, including the massive American crocodiles that can be spotted basking on the riverbanks. You can take a boat tour of the river to get an up-close look at the crocodiles, as well as various bird species, monkeys, and other wildlife that inhabit the area.
Tip: Keep your camera ready for some great wildlife photography, especially of the crocodiles sunning themselves on the riverbanks.
For those looking to unwind, head to Playa Hermosa, one of the most beautiful beaches near Puerto Caldera. The beach is known for its calm waters, ideal for swimming or relaxing by the shore. You can spend some time soaking in the sun, enjoying the Pacific views, or take a leisurely walk along the beach.
Tip: Playa Hermosa is a great spot to enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants, offering fresh seafood and local dishes.
If you enjoy nature and wildlife, Carara National Park is a must-visit destination, located about 30 minutes from Puerto Caldera. This park is a biological crossroads where the dry forests of the north meet the humid forests of the south. It’s known for its diverse wildlife, including toucans, scarlet macaws, and howler monkeys. You can take a guided hike through the park’s well-maintained trails to explore the lush rainforest, vibrant flora, and fauna.
Tip: Bring insect repellent and sturdy shoes for hiking. If you’re lucky, you may spot a scarlet macaw or two in the trees.
Puntarenas, a nearby city, offers a great place to experience local life and culture. It’s located about 20-30 minutes from Puerto Caldera and is home to a charming waterfront Malecón (seafront promenade), where you can stroll along the pier, watch fishermen at work, or shop for local handicrafts. The city’s Central Market is also a great place to pick up souvenirs, such as handmade jewelry or Costa Rican coffee.
Tip: Walk along the Malecón in the late afternoon for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean as the sun sets.
Costa Rica is renowned for its high-quality coffee, and Puerto Caldera offers several coffee tours where you can learn about the coffee production process, from planting to harvesting. One popular option is a visit to a nearby coffee plantation, where you can explore the coffee fields, learn about sustainable farming practices, and sample some freshly brewed coffee.
Tip: Make sure to try Costa Rican coffee with a traditional gallo pinto (rice and beans), a common breakfast dish.
For thrill-seekers, a zip-lining adventure through the rainforest canopy is an exciting way to experience Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Several tour operators near Puerto Caldera offer zip line tours where you can soar above the treetops, getting an adrenaline rush while enjoying breathtaking views of the forest, rivers, and mountains below.
Tip: Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes for the zip-lining adventure.
If you have a bit more time and want a true tropical experience, consider taking a boat tour to Isla Tortuga (Turtle Island). This small, uninhabited island is a paradise with white sandy beaches and clear waters perfect for snorkeling or swimming. You can take a catamaran or boat tour from Puerto Caldera, which typically includes snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks.
Tip: The waters around Isla Tortuga are home to a wide variety of marine life, so keep an eye out for tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins!
For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting the Costa Rica Wildlife Rescue Center, located just outside of Puntarenas. This nonprofit center focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating injured or orphaned wildlife. The center has a range of animals, including sloths, monkeys, toucans, and more, all of which are being cared for before being released back into the wild.
Tip: The center offers educational tours where you can learn about the local wildlife and conservation efforts in Costa Rica.
After a busy day of sightseeing, make sure to treat yourself to a delicious Costa Rican meal. Local dishes to try include casado (a traditional dish with rice, beans, meat, and salad), ceviche (fresh seafood marinated in citrus), and patacones (fried green plantains). There are several restaurants near Puerto Caldera and Playa Hermosa where you can enjoy these local specialties, many of which offer ocean views.
Tip: Pair your meal with a glass of agua dulce, a sweet drink made from raw sugar cane, or a refreshing tropical fruit juice.
End your day with a relaxing sunset cruise along the Pacific coast. These evening boat tours provide a serene opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the coastline, often with the chance to spot dolphins, sea birds, and other marine life. As the sun sets over the ocean, it’s a perfect way to reflect on the day’s adventures.
Tip: Bring a light jacket, as it can get breezy on the water as the sun sets.
