Things To Do
in Quepos
Quepos is a charming coastal town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It is known for its picturesque beaches, lush rainforest scenery, and abundant wildlife. The town serves as a gateway to Manuel Antonio National Park, a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Quepos also offers a lively culinary scene, vibrant nightlife, and a variety of water activities such as surfing, fishing, and snorkeling.
- "Pura vida" - Pure life
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¡Adiós!" - Goodbye!
- "¡Hola!" - Hello!
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Playa Espadilla, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy stunning ocean views. Consider a quick swim or stroll along the beach to kick off your adventures.
After lunch, head to the Manuel Antonio National Park for an afternoon hike among diverse wildlife and lush rainforest. Don’t forget your camera, as you'll likely spot monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds.
Wind down your day with a seafood dinner at a local restaurant overlooking the ocean. Enjoy the sunset as you feast on fresh catch of the day.
Begin your morning with an adrenaline-pumping zip line tour through the rainforest canopy. Feel the rush as you soar among the treetops, taking in breathtaking views.
Enjoy a relaxing lunch before taking a guided ATV tour through rugged terrain and scenic paths. Explore hidden gems and experience the thrill of speed in the lush surroundings.
Head back to Quepos and enjoy a laid-back dinner at a local café. Take a stroll along the pier and watch the local fishermen at work.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and natural scenery.
- Rich biodiversity and access to national parks like Manuel Antonio.
- Wide range of outdoor activities, including surfing, fishing, and hiking.
- Friendly local community and culture.
- Warm climate year-round.
- Tourist crowds during peak seasons.
- Higher prices for accommodations and services compared to other areas in Costa Rica.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
- Infrastructure challenges, such as road conditions.
- Potential for tropical storms and rainy seasons affecting travel plans.
Best Activities in Quepos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking, wildlife watching, and beach activities within a beautiful coastal rainforest setting.
Fishing trips for sportfishing enthusiasts to catch various species of fish in the Pacific Ocean.
Exciting rafting adventures on the pristine and scenic Savegre River surrounded by lush tropical jungle.
Tours
Uncover the best of Quepos with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Quepos
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, lush rainforest, and diverse wildlife. Great for hiking and photography.
Provides picturesque views of boats, the ocean, and sunsets. Ideal for capturing scenic seascapes and sunsets.
Boasts panoramic views of the coastline, ocean, and rainforest. Perfect for capturing breathtaking vistas.
Food in Quepos
Quepos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Costa Rican meal consisting of rice, black beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat or fish. Try it at Soda Sanchez for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
A popular breakfast dish made from rice and beans sautéed together with onions, peppers, and spices. Head to El Wagon for a delicious Gallo Pinto breakfast.
Fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro. Don't miss out on trying the ceviche at Emilio's Cafe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Quepos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Quepos Farmers Market for an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local snacks. Don't miss the opportunity to try a variety of empanadas and tamales from the street food vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Quepos, it's important to embrace the 'Pura Vida' attitude, which promotes a laid-back, friendly, and positive approach to life. Show respect for this cultural norm by being easygoing, appreciative, and friendly in interactions with locals.
Costa Rica is known for its cultural diversity, and Quepos is no exception. Respectful behavior involves embracing and respecting the various cultures and individuals that make up the community. Being open-minded and tolerant is essential.
In Quepos, polite and respectful communication is highly valued. Use 'por favor' (please) and 'gracias' (thank you) in your interactions, and be mindful of your tone and body language to convey respect and courtesy.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Quepos with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Quepos
Ensure a smooth experience
In Quepos, Costa Rica, tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. It is common to leave a 10% tip at restaurants if a service charge is not already included in the bill. Tipping is also practiced in hotels, guided tours, and for exceptional service.
In Quepos, Costa Rica, cash is widely used for transactions. Credit cards are accepted in tourist areas and larger establishments, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in more remote areas. ATMs are available in the town for withdrawing local currency.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Quepos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for sunny weather, fewer crowds, and great conditions for outdoor activities like hiking, ziplining, and beach hopping.
Expect lush, green landscapes, occasional rain showers, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, as well as discounted prices and less crowded attractions.
Quepos at Night
Hiking in Quepos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular national park featuring hiking trails through lush rainforest, with stunning views of the Pacific coastline and opportunities to see wildlife.
An ecological reserve with a network of hiking trails, hanging bridges, and waterfalls, providing a unique experience amidst tropical biodiversity.
The highest mountain in Costa Rica, offering challenging hikes with breathtaking views and a variety of ecosystems to explore along the way.
A lesser-known hiking spot with beautiful trails and opportunities to witness diverse flora and fauna in a serene environment.
A scenic hiking location that provides a suitable trail for both novice and experienced hikers, along with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Quepos through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Quepos by plane.
The main international airport serving Costa Rica, located in San José, approximately 170 km from Quepos.
An international airport located in Liberia, Costa Rica, around 260 km from Quepos, serving the northern Pacific regions.
Located in San José, this airport is around 160 km from Quepos and serves some international flights.
A smaller airport close to Quepos, offering limited domestic flights, located about 30 km away.
A small domestic airport that connects Quepos to other parts of Costa Rica, but does not handle international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Quepos, consisting of individuals who are native to Costa Rica.
Foreigners who have moved to Quepos, often from countries such as the United States, Canada, and European nations.
A significant transient population that visits Quepos for its beaches, national parks, and outdoor activities, particularly during peak seasons.
Small populations of indigenous peoples, including the Bribri and Cabécar, who have historical ties to the region.
A notable demographic group, consisting of Nicaraguans who have migrated to Costa Rica for work and better living conditions.
The Soul of Quepos
Discover the essence of Quepos through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Quepos is known for its excellent surf spots, attracting both locals and tourists.
Quepos is famous for sport fishing, especially in the waters off Manuel Antonio.
Beach volleyball is popular among locals and visitors on the sandy beaches.
Soccer is a widely loved sport in Quepos, with many local teams and community games.
The nearby Manuel Antonio National Park offers numerous hiking trails, popular with outdoor enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Quepos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Quepos has a growing number of restaurants and cafes offering vegetarian and vegan options, with dishes like heart of palm ceviche, vegetable fajitas, and tropical fruit smoothies.
Many restaurants in Quepos provide gluten-free choices, including fresh seafood, tropical salads, and rice-based dishes. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly to ensure a delightful dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Quepos with these cultural adventures.
