Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Camping is not allowed in the reserve, though there are six rustic
cabinas
(r per person
US$30, meals US$10)
with private cold showers. Stays must be arranged in advance either
through the Turismo Curú office in Paquera, or at the reserve's entrance.
Playas Pochote & Tambor
These two mangrove-backed, gray-sand beaches are protected by Bahía Ballena, the
largest bay on the southeastern peninsula, and are surrounded by small fishing communit-
ies. In the past 15 years, the area has slowly developed as a resort destination, but for the
most part, Pochote and Tambor are mellow, authentic Tico beaches, providing plenty of
opportunities for hiking, swimming, kayaking and even whale-watching.
The beaches begin 14km south of Paquera, at the mangrove shrouded, fishing
pueblo
of
Pochote, and stretch for about 8km southwest to Tambor. They're divided by the narrow
estuary of the Río Pánica, where you'll find two seafood
sodas
on the Pochote side, over-
looking the river. Tambor is the area's access point. It should also be said that there is one
rather conspicuous all-inclusive megaresort in the Tambor area. Hotel Barceló Playa Tam-
bor has a convention center and golf course, but once you're in the
pueblo
, you won't even
know it's there.
Activities
Both beaches are safe for swimming, and there are occasional whale sightings in the bay.
The gentle waters also make this a good spot for kayaking, and Curú's hiking trails are just
down the road.
Sleeping & Eating
Mar y Sol
CABINA
( 8980-0040, 2683-1065;
www.marysolcr.com
; d/q US$30/50; )
The location is a bit odd - stuck on a side road with no beach in sight - but this Canadian-
owned joint has undergone an impressive renovation, making it an excellent budget op-
tion. The eight rooms have been thoughtfully designed and decked out with custom fur-
