Things To Do
in Sixaola
Sixaola is a small Caribbean border town on Costa Rica's eastern edge beside the Sixaola River, where lush rainforest meets the sea. It sits at the doorstep of Bribri Indigenous territory and serves as a quiet gateway to Panama via the Guabito border crossing. The town has a laid-back, village-like feel with riverfront views and simple services that suit slow, natural exploration.
From Sixaola, day trips to Gandoca-Manzanillo, Cahuita, and nearby border towns are easy to arrange, making it a convenient base for Caribbean coast adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Sixaola and check into your eco-lodge surrounded by lush nature. Enjoy a refreshing tropical breakfast while listening to the vibrant sounds of the rainforest. Take some time to relax and get acclimated to your beautiful surroundings before heading out.
Start your exploration with a guided walk along the Sixaola River, where you can spot native wildlife such as toucans and monkeys. Engage with knowledgeable local guides who will share insights about the flora and fauna of this unique region. Conclude the afternoon with a visit to a nearby banana plantation to learn about sustainable farming practices.
After a delightful day, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring authentic Costa Rican cuisine. Spend the evening mingling with locals or unwinding at your lodge, absorbing the serene sounds of the jungle. If you're feeling adventurous, consider a night walk to witness the nightlife of the rainforest.
Set off early to Cahuita National Park, where you can explore the picturesque coastal trails that wind through both rainforest and beachfront. Go for a swim in the turquoise waters to cool off and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Keep your eyes peeled for sloths, vibrant birds, and the local marine life.
After a morning of exploration, grab a packed lunch at the beach, relishing the beautiful views of the Caribbean. Spend the afternoon snorkeling in the coral reefs, which are teeming with colorful fish and unique underwater landscapes. You might also encounter sea turtles and other fascinating marine creatures.
Return to Sixaola in the early evening and freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a beachfront restaurant where you can savor fresh seafood caught that day. As the sun sets over the horizon, enjoy the atmosphere of the Caribbean night with music and perhaps some dancing.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🥗Groceries for a day | $6-15 |
| 🚎Public transportation or taxi per ride | $1-4 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Caribbean culture and close-to-nature experiences
- Good value for money and easy access from Limón and San José
- Limited nightlife and dining options in Sixaola itself
- Rougher roads and border crossing times can vary
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Vamos a la playa" - Let's go to the beach
Places to Visit in Sixaola
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic border bridge over the Sixaola River; early mornings offer soft light and mist, perfect for wide river and silhouette shots.
Colorful riverside market and dock with boats, palm fronds, and local vendors; great for candid portraits and everyday life.
Coastal rainforest trails with mangroves and ocean views; ideal for wildlife photography and dramatic sea panoramas.
Clear turquoise waters, reef edges, and rainforest backdrops; excellent for beach-to-reef photography and snorkeling scenes.
Palm-fringed beach with calm seas and lush jungle backdrop; perfect for sunset silhouettes and coastal landscapes.
Food in Sixaola
Sixaola Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A coconut-milk seafood stew (often crab or fish) cooked with yuca, plantains, and herbs; a Bribri/Caribbean favorite found in coastal towns.
Must-Try!
Fried plantain slices served with fried fish, lime, and a tangy dipping sauce.
Rice cooked with coconut milk served with fried fish; a comforting Caribbean staple.
Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and peppers; best enjoyed soon after preparation.
Rice and beans with a Caribbean twist, often cooked with cilantro, peppers, and coconut oil.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Lively market stalls with fresh fruits, yuca, plantains, grilled fish, and handmade crafts; ideal for a quick bite and local flavor.
Along the waterfront, look for fried fish, patacones, plantain chips, and fresh fruit smoothies with a sea breeze.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say buenos días/tardes and use a friendly tone. Ask permission before entering private property or taking photos of people, especially in Indigenous communities.
Respect Bribri and other local traditions; avoid disrupting ceremonies or sacred sites; support community-led initiatives when possible.
Keep noise reasonable at night near residential areas; dispose of trash properly and avoid feeding wildlife.
Safety
Tipping in Sixaola
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of about 10% is customary if service is not included. For tour guides or drivers, small tips are appreciated and based on service quality.
Costa Rican colón is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Credit/debit cards are accepted in larger places; carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days, low to moderate humidity, and generally calm seas. Perfect for beach time and river trips, though some roads can be dusty and crowds may increase in peak holidays.
Frequent afternoon showers, lush vegetation, and dramatic skies. Driving can be slower due to rain; streams and rivers rise, making some crossings more adventurous but wildlife viewing can be excellent.
Sixaola at Night
Hiking in Sixaola
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal rainforest trails with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy ocean views.
Low-difficulty rainforest-to-beach hikes with chances to see monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds.
Guided forest walks offered by Bribri communities; learn about native plants and traditional uses.
Airports
How to reach Sixaola by plane.
Nearest international gateway; domestic and some international routes; roughly 70–100 km from Sixaola.
Costa Rica's main international hub near San José; extensive international connections.
Smaller airport in the San José area serving domestic flights and some regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Traditional territories with unique crafts, languages, and cultural practices; respectful engagement is encouraged.
A vibrant cultural influence on music, food, and daily life along the coast.
A mix that includes local Costa Ricans and international visitors who live or travel in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Caribbean surf culture, especially at Salsa Brava near Puerto Viejo; good for experienced surfers and adventurous learners.
A common pastime and community activity throughout the coast.
River and coastal fishing options for locals and visitors; catch-and-release tours available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sixaola.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries; request plant-based sides like beans, plantains, rice, and yucca. Opt for veggie sides and avoid fish-based sauces when needed.
Look for dishes featuring beans, rice, plantains, yuca, fruits, and salads; confirm that no animal product is used in broths, ghee, or sauces.
Many dishes are naturally gluten-free (rice, beans, fish, plantains); confirm with staff about sauces or bread that may contain gluten.