Cahuita National Park

Cahuita National Park is a coastal and marine-protected area on Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean coast in Limón Province, noted for its fringing coral reef and long coastal trail. It combines seaside beaches with lowland rainforest and is popular for snorkelling and relaxed wildlife viewing.

A shoreline trail runs along beaches and mangrove-fringed forest, linking access points and providing frequent opportunities to see howler monkeys, sloths and coastal birdlife. The offshore reef protects nearshore waters and supports marine species that snorkelers commonly encounter.

The park was established to conserve coastal reef and beach habitats and is managed to balance low-impact visitor access with marine protection. Local communities and park authorities coordinate visitor services and guided snorkel options.

The park sits on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast near the town of Cahuita and is reached by a short coastal drive from regional roads.

• Snorkelling advice: Snorkelling the fringing reef is a main activity; bring reef-safe sunscreen and local guides for best access to healthy coral patches.
• Trail length and nature: The park's main trail follows the shoreline and is an unpaved coastal route of several kilometres, providing continuous beach and forest viewing.

What to See #

• Coral reef: The shallow fringing coral reef that runs offshore and provides the park's primary snorkeling sites and marine habitat protection.
• Coastal trail: The shore-side trail that extends along the beach and fringe forest for several kilometres, offering regular wildlife sightings and beach access.