Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
This long-established, top-class, gringo-owned catamaran makes day trips to Tortuga's
brilliant white beaches. Trips come with a picnic lunch, fresh fruit, snacks and booze. The
same company also operates Puntarenas' only fine-dining establishment, El Shrimp Shack.
Odyssey Tours
ADVENTURE TOUR
( 8994-6245, 2635-2221, 8319-1315;
www.odysseytourscr.com
; )
Diego and Alvaro, a pair of friendly bilingual brothers, host a variety of customizable day
tours and come with a slew of excellent recommendations. Costa Rica's full suite of ad-
ventures are on offer: white-water rafting, trips to local canopy walks and nearby national
parks.
Festivals & Events
Puntarenas is one of the seaside towns that celebrates the
Fiesta de La Virgen del Mar
(Festival of the Virgin of the Sea)
on the Saturday closest to July 16. Fishing boats and elegant
yachts are bedecked with lights, flags and decorations and sail around the harbor, seeking
protection from the Virgin as they begin another year at sea. There are also boat races, a
carnival, and plenty of food, drinking and dancing.
Sleeping
There's no shortage of accommodations in Puntarenas, though plenty of the very cheapest
ones cater to the clientele that want to pay by the hour. Also, high humidity and lots of rain
makes even the most upscale options muggy, so make sure there's a fan.
Hotel Cabezas
HOTEL
room US$20/30; )
This no-nonsense budget option is an excellent choice. Pastel-painted rooms have func-
tional overhead fans and screened windows, which means you'll sleep deeply without
needing air-con. Although you certainly shouldn't leave your valuables strewn about, this
hotel is safe, secure and surprisingly quiet.
Cabinas Joyce
CABINA
