Making the most of Golfito
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
This is a port for smaller ships. You will be docked in the center of town.
Golfito, formerly a banana port, is located just a walking distance from the downtown area and a few minutes drive from the airport. A taxi boat is the commonly used local transport around the bay’s numerous beaches.
Taxis are plentiful.
Golfito is located south of Costa Rica on a bay that is surrounded by the larger Golfo Dulce. This small bay’s water is often calm and is famous among local fishing aficionados. Golfito is located on a strip of land bordered by the bay and a series of hills. Beyond and around there are protected rainforests and national parks, and long stretches of beach.
The verdant slopes of the Refugio Nacional de Fauna Silvestre Golfito surround the town, and provide a picturesque backdrop to the crumbling buildings.
The beaches are the main attractions in Golfito. Pavones beach located south of Golfito near the entrance of Golfo Dulce is famous among surfers.
Getting around
There are hiking and sightseeing opportunities at the Refugio Nacioal Golfito, the protected wildlife area. Trails start from the town and may lead to several landings with scenic views of the ocean and the dense forest. There are no public facilities within the wilderness area.
If you plan to travel outside the towns: protection against mosquito bites is very important, wearing lightweight long pants, long sleeved shirts and using insect repellents with high concentrations of DEET is recommended by the CDC
Nearby places
If you’re stuck in Golfito for the day, Playa Cacao is perhaps the most appealing spot from which to enjoy the old port. To reach the beach, catch a water taxi from Golfito for around ¢1100 per person.
Food and shopping
Shopping is best done at the duty free center located north of the town. Foreigners will need to present a passport.
Money
The local currency is Colón(es). The rate of exchange is about 575 Colones for 1 US Dollar. You can find ATMs in most places. They normally dispense US Dollars and Colones.
Staying connected
Spanish is the main language in Costa Rica. English is used widely in areas populated by international tourists.
The emergency number in Costa Rica is 911
Cafes which offer free WiFi for customers are fairly easy to find in tourist areas.
Opening Hours and
Shopping hours Mon-Sat 0900-1800/1900. There may be variations between areas.
Costa Rica is a Catholic country and it's holidays are mostly church-related. Most businesses, including banks, close on official holidays. The country closes down entirely during the biggest holiday time, Easter Holy Week, but only during Holy Thursday, Friday and Saturday, by Holy Sunday, some services might be available, but don't count on it in remote parts of the country.
Most Ticos now take the whole Christmas holiday week through New Year as an unofficial