Is Limon, Costa Rica, worth visiting? What are the top attractions? Well, it depends on which Limon you are speaking of. There is Puerto Limon, a port city, the largest city in Costa Rica, and the capital of Limón province, located in the larger Limon Region. We pulled into Puerto Limon when we took our cruise. However, we did not stay there for long. Instead, we ventured into the region of Limon, where we will show you the top attractions to visit. In short, the answer is yes, but there is plenty to know about the region and what it has to offer.
Limon, the region, and Puerto Limon, where many cruise ships come into the port. Costa Rica’s Caribbean Province has a great atmosphere and an even more interesting history. Limon is mainly known for its creole and black population. It differs from the rest of Costa Rica. It has unique styles, languages, and ways of life.
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The Provinces of Costa Rica
Let me explain. In discussing Limon, it is first helpful to take a step back and review how the country is set up. Costa Rica has seven provinces, which are broken down into 81 cantons. Within those 81 cantons lie 473 districts. Limón province is broken down into cantons and districts. The city of Puerto Limon exists in the canton of Limon, which exists in the province of Limon.
If you’re from Puerto Limon, you’re technically from Limon, Limon, Limon, Costa Rica.

So to answer the question, should I visit Limon, Costa Rica, you would need to know precisely what that means. Which town are you visiting in Limon? We started in Puerto Limon because we took a cruise. So that is an easy way to get to this region in Costa Rica.
Also See: Top Tips for Exploring the Panama Canal on a Cruise
The History of Puerto Limon, Costa Rica
This is a hugely significant city in Costa Rica because it is the most important port and biggest city in the country. This port is located on the eastern coast of Costa Rica on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. It is easily accessible by cruise ship, making it an ideal place and a prominent port for the country.
It has an exciting history dating back to 1502, when Christopher Columbus landed at this port while exploring the New World. The port, however, was founded much later, in 1870.
The port provided grain and bananas to the rest of the world. As a result, we could tour a banana plantation on our trip. Nowadays, this city is more famous for its cashews and chocolate, an up-and-coming crop in Limon.
Getting to Puerto Limon By Plane
There is an international airport in Puerto Limon. We drove by it, and it is tiny. The only airline that flies into the city of Limon is Sansa. Therefore, you will have to fly into San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, then take a Sansa flight to Limon. However, if you drive, the trip will take about 2.5 hours to get to Puerto Limon from San Jose.
However, the trip by car takes you right by many beautiful landmarks and exotic wildlife, such as the Brava Volcano and the Brauilo Carrillo National Park. Therefore, it would be well worth it to take a flight that arrives in the morning, or you can stay in San Juan overnight to see the sights on the way to Limon.
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What Town Do I Stay In, Limon?
I might spend a day or two in Puerto Limon, but it would not be where I would stay for my whole vacation. However, there are many beautiful areas in Limon to stay near. National Parks offer beautiful beaches and jungle habitats stocked with local animals.
The city was also hit by an earthquake that brought hardship to the region. This has given the buildings a bit of a rundown look, although many say this has only increased the city’s charm. One cool thing to see is the coral in Limon was literally pushed out of the sea and can now be seen above the waterline. Unfortunately, however, that also means the coral reefs sustained much damage.
This region is also famous for surfing and white sand beaches. Playa Bonita beach is nearby. This is a coast famous for its exceptional surfing opportunities and cashew wine.
Cahuita Park
When we return, I will stay as close to Cahuita Park as I can. The City of Cahuita is charming and offers acceptable accommodations near the park and beach. Cahuita has a bit of a bohemian party atmosphere, but there are plenty of families there too.
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9 Things To Do In Limon, Costa Rica
We took a tour that we booked through Trip Advisor. Full-Day Tour to Cahuita National Park from Puerto Limon offered 5 of the best places that I felt were of value for our trip to Central America. In addition, I was interested in seeing a lot of wildlife.
There was one spot I would have liked to have stopped that was not on our list: The Sloth Sanctuary. If you have the time, make the trip to see this excellent spot.
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Hill Overlooking Puerto Limon
I know this does not sound like much, but you will get a beautiful view of the city here. This will be the first stop on tour. I also included a photo I took from and of our ship. The mountains are impressive in Costa Rica.



View from the top of Puerto Limon over the bay.
Sloth Sanctuary
Sloths are everywhere in Costa Rica, but it takes a trained eye to find them. Two-toed sloths are entirely nocturnal. Although three-toed sloths are both diurnal and nocturnal, they’re primarily inactive during the day.

Sloths don’t do all that much on the whole, but what they do, they do at night. They move incredibly slowly, so even when they move. It is so slow you may not notice. However, you can see these incredible animals up close at the Sloth Sanctuary. It is the perfect place to learn everything “Sloth” on your trip!
Tortuguero National Park
The Tortuguero Canal National Park is the third most visited park in Costa Rica and offers a boat tour. The park has a large variety of biological diversity due to its existence within the reserve of eleven different habitats. You will see a lot in this park, which is the best way to see the rain forest, mangrove forests, swamps, beaches, and lagoons.
Boats are waiting to take tourists out.
We hopped in a boat and headed down the Tortuguero canals to get to the wildlife. The local inhabitants around the park are only permitted to collect forest products to supplement their income and for domestic use. Fishing and tourism are major activities in their daily life. There is regulated guidance for visitors to access creeks, lakes, nature trails, and watch wildlife.
Homes of local people who live on the canals
You will see Sloths, Crocodiles, Birds, and Iguanas in the canals. We could hear the monkeys but never saw them on the canals. However, we did see the monkeys and sloths from the side of the road on our way there. Watch our video showing our canal tour through the jungle.
Frutería El Almendro – A Green Grocer
What was remarkable about it was that we could learn more about tropical plants and their fruits and watch them prepare the food in traditional ways. We were able to see the actual plants and trees that are native to Costa Rica. We also have samples of these delicious fruits at a rustic fruit stand before heading to Cahuita National Park. If you feel like shopping, you can also visit the souvenir shop.
Fruit Stand and Farm
Finca Comendador – A Banana Plantation
Bananas are a big part of the Costa Rican economy and a significant activity in Puerto Limon. Stop beside Chiquita’s banana plantation to learn about cultivating, harvesting, and shipping the fruit. Unfortunately, the plant was closed the day we went, but our tour guide was knowledgeable and told us how the bananas were managed and harvested.
Banana Plantation
Cahuita National Park
Monkeys Cahuita National Park
This was my favorite stop. It was well worth the drive on our Puerto Limon Shore Excursion. The next time we go to Costa Rica, we want to stay here or someplace similar. There were plenty of mom-and-pop properties with villas for rent, dirt roads, palm trees, and the hippie lifestyle.
It was created in 1970 as a National Monument to preserve the coral reefs off the Caribbean coast. Later, the area was reformed as a national park where many families hang out on the sandy beaches.
Monkeys Cahuita National Park
Currently, it relies on donations and does not charge an admission fee. You will see a wide array of Costa Rican wildlife at the park, from raccoons, snakes, tropical birds, lizards, sloths, and white-faced monkeys. It is imperative that you do not feed the animals in the park and protect your food if you bring it. They are crafty and brazen in getting people’s food, so honestly, it is better not to bring any in the park.
The Beach at Cahuita
The monkeys and raccoons will try to take your stuff if you leave it to go in the water. You can see in the photo below that people are trying to hide their stuff from the raccoons, who have no problem coming up to you and taking your things right in front of you.
Raccoons Cahuita National Park
There are wheelchair-accessible paths at the beginning of the park, so you can make it in to get to the beaches.
Walking Paths Cahuita National Park
The beach is one of the least developed ones in the country, but there are plenty of things to see.
Cahuita National Park Beaches
It’s a nesting ground for sea turtles, and you can go scuba-diving or snorkeling. Eels, sea cucumbers, manta rays, three species of sharks, and sea urchins call the coralline reef home. There are at least 35 species of coral, 123 species of fish, and many mollusks and crustaceans. Green Turtles can be seen poking their heads up from the surf. It is the perfect spot for nature lovers and animal lovers!
Mas X Menos
We headed back to the City of Puerto Limon, and our guide took us to Mas X Menos. This is their Walmart. They had Walmart brands even. Chocolate is an up-and-coming crop in Costa Rica and is expensive for tourists. So she suggested we get our chocolate here.
On the drive back, our guide had fresh cacao plants for us to touch and feel. She explained the crop and how Costa Rica is trying to take their place in the chocolate market. Once we arrived back in Puerto Limon, she took us to this store since it has the best prices for local chocolate.
You will want to buy more than I did. It had a tangy fruit filling. It was delicious.
G & E Chocolate Adventure Company

Once we left the tour, we were dropped off back at the city of Puerto Limón so we could walk around and see the rest of Costa Rica and the shops. Before we left, the tour guide gave us a coupon for a free cup of coffee. So we grabbed our coffee at G & E Chocolate Adventure Company and tried the new cacao lotions and oil they had for sale.

I spoke with the owner, and he has huge plans for his storefront. He took us upstairs and offered to show us around and explain his plans for a gathering spot with a library, local art, bar, and seating. It is one of the main attractions at the port.
While you are there, you will also be able to take tours and learn all about the processing of cacao beans.
The Port Shopping
After visiting the cacao shop, we returned to the port, where there is a flea market type of venue for shopping and beauty services. You can get anything from massages to pedicures with goldfish that will feast on your dead skin. Not my cup of tea.
You will also be able to shop right in the port. You will find the usual trinkets, T-shirts, and jewelry. At this port, though, they offer massages and pedicures. If you are taking a cruise, it can be a significant discount on getting your nails done or getting a massage on the ship.

All in all, the region of Limon has many national treasures for you to visit. From beautiful beaches, national parks, and tons of native animals, you will get the whole Costa Rican experience in Limon.

110 responses to “Is Limon, Costa Rica, Worth Visiting? What You Need To Know!”
Thank you for writing about Limon (though your piece is old). My grandparents emigrated from Jamaica to the region about 1904 and my father’s half of the family is still there (he came to the US, which is where I grew up). The family settled in Siquirres, which will always be their home base, but my cousins are now also in Guapiles, San Jose (inclu. Heredia), San Isidro, Puerto Viejo, and Puerto Limon. Last year I visited Guanacaste, which is so American on the coast, but the Atlantic coast does have a different feel altogether. As a Jamaican descendant, it felt good to read something positive. Thank you!
I would love to visit Limon Costa Rica! It looks so peaceful with all the nature. My girls would love the sloths!
The Sloths are a big hit Amanda!
Love it! The more I read about Costa Rica, the higher it moves up my wish list!
You guys will love the animals!
Costa Rica is so beautiful! Returning is definitely on the list – perhaps we’ll try this area next time!
Awesome! Let me know what you think!
Wow, what a thorough and helpful guide for Costa Rica travel planning. I love it! Your photos are so fun!
Thanks Shirley! I love taking photos of animals and people who are not posing. lol
This looks so beautiful! I SO want to go to that sloth sanctuary!!
I was sad we missed it but we did not have much time. But I had to mention it for others.
I love Costa Rica and would love to go back!!
I think it is addicting too!
So fascinating and beautiful pictures! All the wildlife fascinates me because it is so different from the wildlife I know. In the sloth video, was that really a bunch of sloths in one tree?!
Yep! It was an amazing find! They are hard to spot as it is.
Costa Rica looks awesome! I haven’t been but friends friend has property there, we wanna go check it out
I would love to have a friend with property there!
I would love to visit the national park. Learning about the native plants and animals is great.
I agree. There was a lot to learn.
I’m still deciding whether to visit Costa Rica, most seem to really enjoy it and others not so much. I may check it out via a cruise stop first before investing a week.
That is an excellent idea.
Beautiful photos! I would say Limon is definitely worth the visit!
Thanks Jordin! We will definitely go back to explore more later.
Sure looks like worth a trip to Limon, Costa Rica. Not sure if I’d get there someday, but thank you for taking us there through this detailed account of your visit there. My son would love the sloth sanctuary, he’s big into amusing and interesting animals.
There is plenty of that to see there. We did not even scratch the surface.
Costa Rica is definitely calling my name! That sloth sanctuary is pretty intriguing and those monkeys! Yes, I need to make this destination a priority (and thanks for the Limon tutorial as I get lost so easily).
Yeah, it took me a minute when I was researching the trip. Now it all makes perfect sense!
My children would love to see all the animals and wildlife. I appreciate how informative your posts are!
Thank you so much Casandra!
It looks like it’s worth the visit to me!!!
Well if you like this kind of thing. Animals are one of our favorite things to see so we are all for the new experience.
This looks like such a beautiful place to explore. I love the wildlife, and I’d also like to learn more about tropical fruit. It looks like you had a great time!
We loved it there! Thanks Stacey!
Raccoons are sneaky little guys! And the sloths are cute. So many activities and things to see!
Yes they are and I was surprised how many were out during the day.
Would love to see a sloth! This trip looks amazing!
Thanks Cathy! They are so cute …. and sloooooow!
I love the art at the chocolate factory. Costa Rica is very high on my bucket list and now that I know where to go it will be easier to plan my trip, thanks.
He was a cool guy and I loved the atmosphere there.
I want to go here and I want to hold a sloth! It’s a must do for me.
Holding a sloth will be next on my list!
What a fun trip! Costa Rica is on my list of places I’d like to visit – and that warm weather looks fantastic right now!
I bet! I saw it is still snowing in many places up north!
So much world to explore!
I agree! It is overwhelming at times! Where to go next?
How fun!! We loved Costa Rica. Such a beautiful country.
I agree! I can’t wait to go back!
Fantastic photos. Costa Rica is a must see.
Thank you Angela!
Costa Rica has been on my list forever. Thank you for sharing this!
Thank you Lina!
I want to go to the Sloth Sanctuary! What a gem of a place you went to. So many people I know have traveled here absolutely loved it. I would love to explore the markets. The fruit looks good.
I was a little more than bummed we did not get to stop there. But it is a great reason to go back!
Looks like a wonderful destination! I have added it to my bucket list.
Awesome Linda! I can’t wait to hear about it!
I’ve never been to Costa Rica but this was a great guide to it! Thanks
Awesome! I hope you get there some day!
Looks like a very interesting place to visit! I love all the wildlife, but thanks for the warnings about watching out for them too.
Yes they are not fearful of humans!
Looks like a great place to visit! I would love to see the sloth sanctuary
I agree! I can’t wait to get back there and spend more time.
Always wanted to go to Costa Rica! Looks like a great place to visit! A lot to do!
If you love the outdoors it is a great place to visit.
What a beautiful trip. Like that you have given recommendations where to not stay as well – referencing the effects of the earthquake on some of the city. Looks like a lot of fun activities for sure. thanks.
Thanks Beth!
Looks like a beautiful place to visit! I would love to see the sloths!
Thanks Christina!
Wow this seems like a great travel destination!
We were pleasantly surprised!
Looks like a great cultural experience! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Melissa!
What an incredible looking vacation! Thank you for sharing!
Thanks Hillari!
Thanks for sharing your insight. This looks like a great place to visit. I have 4 kids (age 3-11) and I know they would love seeing all of the animals. Especially the sloths and monkeys. Looks like you had some neat experiences.
This is such a great place for kids. They will love it!
Ooh, this looks amazing! I’ll have to put it on the (in the future…) list.
Thanks Erin!
Absolutely love your photos and all the great information in the post. Thank you
Thanks Candy!
What an interesting place. I especially liked the sloths and the chocolate.
The chocolate was a nice surprise. I had no idea!
I wish I could afford to travel more. There are so many great places to go!
Points are a great way to get there! You will get there some day!
Thanks for the insight and confirming Cauhita is the location to stay in on our next excursion to CR!
Thanks Suzan! It was really cool! Let me know how you like it!
I would love to visit and spent time here! Thank you for sharing!
Thank you Holly!
I’ve only even been to the Arenal region of Costa Rica. Would love to go back and see more of it!
I Would like to see more as well. I am sure there are plenty of hidden gems in Costa Rica!
I LOVE Costa Rica! I haven’t visited Limon before, though. I’m saving this information for my next trip; thank you!
Thank you Tara!
Costa Rica looks amazing! Thank you for sharing.
Thanks Lisa!
We love to cruise and this is a great representation of a port we haven’t been to yet! Thanks for the great information!
Yes when I saw this itinerary I knew I had to jump on it!
Sounds like it is worth a trip to me! I would love to visit!
You will love it!
Your posts are always so extremely informative and easy to read. I love the pictures, broke up with videos and organization is superb. Thanks I feel like I would be able to travel with more confidence knowing what to expect.
Thank you so much Karie! I appreciate the compliment!
So this article was very insightful. When people travel to a foreign place and you do not do research you may end up confused when you get there.
There are times I feel like a trailblazer for others! lol I try to go over everything I discover!
I love the sloths and the monkeys! Talking my husband into a trip now!
It was really cool! I can’t wait to get my photos up on IG
There looks like so many things to do in Limon
Thanks Jennifer.
I’ve heard so much about Limon, but have never been! Costa Rica is on our list!
Thanks Liz!
Great explanation of the region. Looks like a wonderful experience.
Thanks Debbie!
Costa RIca is definitely on the bucket list.
Thanks Cindy!