Digital Nomad in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica: The full guide

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about Digital nomad in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica!

Why did the digital nomad decide to live in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica? Because it’s the only place where they could find wifi-llas (get it? Like iguanas but with wifi).

Atmosphere / Vibes

Sunlight Beaming Through Clouds
Photo by Luis Quintero

Puerto Viejo is a small, laid-back Caribbean town on the south-east coast of Costa Rica. It’s known for its stunning beaches, lush jungle, and vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture. It’s a place where the pace of life is slow, and the locals are friendly and welcoming.

The atmosphere here is chill and relaxed. There’s a strong sense of community, and everyone is always willing to lend a helping hand. The town is small enough that you can walk or bike to everything, and there’s always something going on, whether it’s a reggae concert on the beach, a yoga class in the park, or a game of soccer in the streets.

Weather throughout the year

Close up of Plant in Box in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica.
Photo by Karolina Grabowska

The weather in Puerto Viejo is tropical, with hot, humid days and cool nights. The rainy season runs from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall in September and October. The dry season runs from December to April, with the coolest temperatures in January and February. Overall, the weather is very consistent, with highs in the mid-80s and lows in the mid-70s year-round.

8 reasons why this is the best place for Digital Nomads

Golden Hour in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica.
Photo by Luis Quintero
  • 1. Affordable living costs: The cost of living in Puerto Viejo is relatively low compared to other parts of Costa Rica. You can find affordable accommodation, food, and activities, which makes it a great place for digital nomads on a budget.
  • 2. Strong WiFi: Puerto Viejo has a number of co-working spaces and cafes with reliable WiFi, making it easy to stay connected and get work done.
  • 3. Stunning natural surroundings: The beaches, jungle, and wildlife in Puerto Viejo are truly breathtaking. You can take a break from work to go for a surf, hike through the rainforest, or spot some monkeys in the trees.
  • 4. Vibrant culture: The Afro-Caribbean culture in Puerto Viejo is rich and diverse, with a mix of indigenous, African, and Latin American influences. You can immerse yourself in the local culture by trying new foods, listening to music, and participating in traditional festivals and celebrations.
  • 5. Outdoor activities: There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Puerto Viejo, including surfing, snorkeling, hiking, and biking. You can take advantage of the great weather and beautiful surroundings to stay active and healthy.
  • 6. Strong community of digital nomads: Puerto Viejo has a growing community of digital nomads, which makes it easy to find like-minded people to connect with and collaborate with. There are also a number of events and meetups specifically for digital nomads.
  • 7. Good healthcare: Costa Rica has a high-quality healthcare system, with a number of hospitals and clinics in the area. You can rest easy knowing that you have access to good medical care if you need it.
  • 8. Easy to get to: Puerto Viejo is easy to get to because it is located just a few hours from the international airport in San José, the capital of Costa Rica. From the airport, you can take a shuttle, bus, or private car to get to Puerto Viejo. The town is also located near the Pan-American Highway, which connects it to other parts of Costa Rica and Central America.

Top 8 Things to do

Crocodile on the Lakeside in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica.
Photo by Alan Kotok
  • 1. Surfing: Puerto Viejo is a surfer’s paradise, with a number of great breaks for all skill levels. You can take a lesson, rent a board, or just watch the pros from the beach.
  • 2. Snorkeling: The crystal clear waters off the coast of Puerto Viejo are home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and more. You can go snorkeling to get a closer look at all the amazing creatures.
  • 3. Hiking: The jungle surrounding Puerto Viejo is filled with trails to explore, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. You can see waterfalls, spot wildlife, and take in breathtaking views of the coastline.
  • 4. Biking: Puerto Viejo is a great place to bike, with flat roads and a number of bike trails. You can rent a bike and explore the town, or take a longer ride to nearby villages and beaches.
  • 5. Eating: Puerto Viejo is home to a number of great restaurants serving a wide variety of cuisines, from traditional Costa Rican dishes to international fare. You can find everything from fresh seafood to vegetarian options to street food.
  • 6. Shopping: The town has a number of artisanal markets and shops selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and other souvenirs. You can find unique gifts and support local artists while shopping.
  • 7. Relaxing: Puerto Viejo is a great place to relax and unwind, with a number of spas and wellness centers offering massages, yoga, and other treatments. You can take a break from work and pamper yourself a little.
  • 8. Exploring: There’s always something new to discover in Puerto Viejo, whether it’s a hidden beach, a secluded waterfall, or a local festival. You can take the time to explore and find your own little slice of paradise.

Conclusion and Safety

Aerial Photography of Beautiful Resort in an Island
Photo by Asad Photo Maldives

In conclusion, Puerto Viejo is a fantastic place for digital nomads looking for an affordable, laid-back, and beautiful place to live and work. With its strong WiFi, stunning natural surroundings, vibrant culture, and endless activities, it’s no wonder that so many digital nomads have fallen in love with this little Caribbean town.

That being said, it’s important to remember that Puerto Viejo is a small town in a developing country, and there are certain precautions you should take to stay safe. Make sure to lock up your belongings, avoid walking alone at night, and be aware of your surroundings. With a little common sense and caution, you can have an amazing and safe experience living and working in Puerto Viejo.


Wanna find out more about Puerto Viejo than just digital nomads? Here is another blog post about the top 14 things to do in Puerto Viejo

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Costa Rica, such as La Fortuna, Playa Hermosa or Manuel Antonio.