Punta Leona, Costa Rica

A Coastal Nature Sanctuary and Tropical Beach Paradise

A close-up shot of two cougars, or pumas, resting on a rocky ledge. The cougar in the foreground looks directly at the camera, its tawny-colored face and alert eyes focused, while the other cougar is curled up and resting behind it.

Overview

Punta Leona, Costa Rica Tours

Punta Leona is a private nature reserve and resort located on Costa Rica's Central Pacific coast, offering a serene blend of pristine beaches and lush rainforest. While some smaller cruise ships can tender directly to the area, it is more commonly visited as a popular shore excursion from the nearby main cruise ports of Puntarenas and Puerto Caldera. Known for its "Pura Vida" (pure life) lifestyle, Punta Leona is home to two stunning beaches, Playa Blanca with its distinctive white sand, and Playa Mantas.

This tropical destination is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. The surrounding forest is a sanctuary for a wide variety of wildlife, including white-faced capuchin monkeys, scarlet macaws, and various birds and reptiles. Whether you're relaxing on a beautiful beach, spotting incredible wildlife, or engaging in a thrilling adventure, Punta Leona offers a quintessential Costa Rican experience that is both rejuvenating and exciting.

Top Things to Do in Punta Leona, Costa Rica

Relax on the White Sands of Playa Blanca

Spend time on Playa Blanca, one of Costa Rica’s few white-sand beaches on the Pacific coast. The crystal-clear, turquoise waters and swaying palm trees provide a perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and simply unwinding in a tranquil tropical paradise.

Tip: To access Playa Blanca, you may need to walk through the Punta Leona resort area or take a short trail from Playa Mantas during low tide.

Spot Wildlife in the Punta Leona Reserve

The resort is nestled within a private nature reserve, making it an excellent location for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for howler and white-faced capuchin monkeys, colorful scarlet macaws flying overhead, sloths, and a variety of other tropical birds and animals.

Tip: Early morning is often the best time for spotting wildlife. Walk quietly and look up into the trees and branches for movement.

Visit the Tarcoles River for a Crocodile Safari

For a truly unique and thrilling experience, take a tour to the nearby Tarcoles River. Famous for its massive crocodile population, a guided boat tour or a visit to the famous bridge offers a safe way to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Tip: This is a popular excursion option from the main ports and is often combined with other activities. Always stay with your guide and follow all safety instructions.

Go on an Adventure Tour

The area around Punta Leona is a hub for adventure activities. Depending on your excursion, you can go zip-lining through the forest canopy, take a thrilling ATV tour through the jungle trails, or go horseback riding on the beach.

Tip: Book adventure tours through your cruise line or a reputable local operator to ensure professional guides and proper safety equipment.

Enjoy Water Sports at Playa Mantas

Right next to Playa Blanca, Playa Mantas is a larger beach that is perfect for water sports. You can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, or snorkeling gear to explore the calmer waters of the cove and get a different perspective of the coastline.

Tip: The waters here are generally calm and family-friendly, making it a great spot for beginners to try out new water activities.

Take a Day Trip to Manuel Antonio National Park

For an all-encompassing nature experience, a longer shore excursion may take you to the famous Manuel Antonio National Park. Though a longer drive, it is known for its stunning combination of pristine beaches and lush rainforest trails teeming with sloths, monkeys, and exotic birds.

Tip: This is a full-day excursion. Be prepared for a significant amount of travel time and wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking.

Overview