Golfito, Costa Rica Travel Guide 2025

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Golfito

Golfito is a small port town located at Costa Rica’s Southern Pacific Zone, it stretches out along the Golfo Dulce Bay and the evergreen-protected tropical rainforest.

in town you can find a Hospital, one regional airport, some restaurants, hotels and a large Dutty Free Zone.

The Protected area attracts a numerous variety of birds such as the scarlet macaw, great curassow, red lored parrot, chestnut-mandibled toucan, parakeets, tanagers, trogons, woodpeckers, falcons, and hummingbirds.

On the mammal’s list, you can spot agoutis, collared peccaries, pacas, raccoons, 3 types of monkeys, squirrels, and coatis. At Golfo Dulce Bay, you can also spot dolphins and Humpback whales.

Where is Golfito?

It is located in the southern Pacific region of Costa Rica, in the province of Puntarenas. This small port town stretches along the Golfo Dulce, one of the few tropical fjord bays in the world, making it a unique natural refuge.

Situated about 340 km southeast of San José, the capital of the country, Golfito is the main urban center of this region and a gateway to the astonishing biodiversity of southern Costa Rica. It is surrounded by Piedras Blancas National Park and lies near the famous Osa Peninsula, home to Corcovado National Park.

How to get to Golfito?

There are several options to reach Golfito depending on your starting point:

By plane: Golfito has a regional airport with daily flights from San José operated by local airlines. The flight takes about 50 minutes and offers stunning aerial views of the Pacific and the rainforest.

By car: From San José, you can take Route 34 (Costanera Sur) and then Route 14, in a journey of about 6 hours, passing through beautiful coastal and mountainous landscapes.

By bus: There are direct bus routes from San José, with a travel time of 7 to 8 hours. It’s an economical option for those who prefer public transportation.

By boat: Golfito is also a maritime connection point, with boat and ferry services linking it to other destinations in the Golfo Dulce, such as Puerto Jiménez and the Osa Peninsula.

Thanks to its strategic location, Golfito is an ideal destination to explore the natural wonders of southern Costa Rica. Whether by air, land, or sea, getting here is the first step toward an unforgettable adventure.

Golfito History

Golfito has a fascinating history that traces its transformation from a quiet coastal settlement into one of southern Costa Rica’s most important commercial and tourism hubs.

In 1938, the United Fruit Company established its headquarters and banana export operations in Golfito, turning it into the country’s main port. The company built a classic “company town,” with housing, hospitals, schools, and other infrastructure similar to those found in the United States at the time. For decades, the city thrived as a prosperous banana-exporting hub.

However, by the 1980s, banana production in the region collapsed due to falling prices, labor disputes, and crop diseases. In 1985, the United Fruit Company shut down its operations in Golfito, leaving a deep economic void in the community.

In 1986, to revive the area, the Costa Rican government established the Golfito Duty-Free Shopping Center (Depósito Libre de Golfito), which quickly became a popular destination for Costa Ricans seeking bargains on appliances and electronics. This initiative helped stimulate the local economy and kept Golfito connected to visitors from across the country.

At the same time, Golfito began to reinvent itself through ecotourism. Surrounded by lush rainforests and the calm waters of the Golfo Dulce, the town is now a gateway to natural wonders like Piedras Blancas National Park and the Osa Peninsula. Today, Golfito is recovering steadily, balancing its history of commerce with its growing reputation as a destination for nature, culture, and adventure.

Things to do in Golfito

Golfito is a destination full of nature, adventure, and opportunities for relaxation. Surrounded by the majestic Golfo Dulce and dense tropical rainforest, this small port in southern Costa Rica offers a variety of activities for all tastes, from ecotourism to duty-free shopping.

1. Explore the Golfito Forest Reserve:
If you’re a nature lover, you can’t miss visiting the Golfito Forest Reserve. This protected forest is a biodiversity sanctuary where you can walk along trails surrounded by lush vegetation, spot monkeys, sloths, and a wide variety of birds—including the iconic scarlet macaw. The reserve also offers impressive viewpoints with panoramic views of the Golfo Dulce.

2. Visit Piedras Blancas National Park:
Just a few kilometers from Golfito lies Piedras Blancas National Park, a paradise for ecotourism enthusiasts. This park is home to one of the country’s most pristine rainforests and shelters species such as jaguars, tapirs, and over 350 types of birds. You can go hiking, explore hidden waterfalls, and discover the region’s incredible biodiversity.

3. Enjoy a tour in the Golfo Dulce:
The Golfo Dulce is one of the few tropical fjords in the world and one of Costa Rica’s richest marine areas in terms of biodiversity. You can go dolphin watching (and during certain seasons, humpback whale watching), go kayaking in its calm waters, or explore its mangroves on a boat tour.

4. Go shopping in the Golfito Duty-Free Zone:
The Golfito Duty-Free Zone is a must-visit attraction for those looking for lower-priced products. Here you’ll find a wide variety of appliances, household items, and technology tax-free. To shop, you only need to register with your ID or passport and follow the purchase process.

5. Relax on nearby beaches:
Although Golfito itself is not known for its beaches, you can find beautiful spots nearby to enjoy the sun and sea. Among the best options are Playa Cacao, located just a few minutes by boat from Golfito, and Playa Zancudo, which offers kilometers of golden sand and perfect waves for surfing.

6. Sportfishing in the Golfo Dulce:
Golfito is an ideal destination for sportfishing, with waters that host species such as roosterfish, tuna, mahi-mahi, and marlin. You can book a tour with local guides and enjoy a day of fishing in one of Costa Rica’s richest marine ecosystems.

If you’d like more information about excursions and guided tours in Golfito, visit our Tours in Golfito section.

Where to stay?

Golfito offers a variety of lodging options to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxurious jungle eco-lodges to cozy beachfront hotels. Whether you’re looking for comfort, adventure, or an immersive nature experience, you’ll find the perfect place to stay here.

1. Eco-lodges and luxury hotels in Golfito
If you’re seeking an exclusive experience surrounded by nature, Golfito offers eco-lodges and boutique hotels that combine luxury with sustainability. These options provide spectacular views of the Golfo Dulce, access to nature reserves, and a completely relaxing stay.

Playa Cativo Lodge: An exclusive luxury eco-lodge in the heart of the rainforest, accessible only by boat. Ideal for disconnecting and enjoying nature with high-end amenities.

Esquinas Rainforest Lodge: Located in Piedras Blancas National Park, this lodge is perfect for ecotourism lovers, with private trails and a completely natural environment.

Cielo Lodge: A luxury eco-lodge in the hills of Golfito, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the jungle and the sea. Features uniquely designed bungalows, gourmet dining, and personalized nature experiences.

Hotel Casa Roland Golfito Resort: A hotel with a pool, restaurant, and comfortable rooms, perfect for travelers seeking a pleasant stay with good service.

2. Beachfront hotels and cabins
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience with an ocean view, Golfito has several hotels and cabins located by the water—ideal for enjoying the scenery and the sound of the sea.

Banana Bay Marina: A great choice for travelers arriving by boat or looking for a stay with views of the Golfito marina. Offers a restaurant, bar, and easy access to water activities.

Amaka Ocean Living Lodge: A stylish beachfront lodge with access to private beaches and a wide range of water activities to enjoy the Golfo Dulce.

Fish Hook Marina Hotel: Affordable accommodation in a convenient location for exploring Golfito, situated near the marina.

3. Budget lodging and hostels
For travelers on a tighter budget, Golfito offers hostels that provide a comfortable stay without overspending.

Golfito Maison d’hôtes: A charming and affordable guesthouse located in the owner’s home, combining comfort and hospitality. It offers cozy rooms in a relaxed and quiet atmosphere, ideal for those seeking an affordable and authentic stay in central Golfito.

If you’d like more information about lodging in Golfito, rates, and our special recommendations, visit the section: Places to stay in Golfito.