Puntarenas stretches along a narrow peninsula into the Pacific, where cruise ships dock and fishing boats bring in daily catches. The city serves as both a working port and gateway to Nicoya Peninsula, with regular ferries crossing the gulf to Paquera and Naranjo.

The long beach road called the Paseo de los Turistas runs the length of the peninsula, lined with seafood restaurants and local shops. This walkway fills with families and visitors enjoying sunset views across the gulf waters. Food vendors set up along the beach selling Churchill, the city’s famous shaved ice dessert.

The port area mixes daily fishing activity with tourism services. Fresh seafood arrives at the market while ferry passengers head to peninsula beaches. The town’s location creates cooler temperatures than Guanacaste, with afternoon breezes common along the peninsula.

How To Get There

Puntarenas city sits on a narrow peninsula on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, about 90 minutes from San Jose International Airport. The main highway (Route 27) connects directly from San Jose to Puntarenas, making it an easy drive. The road is well maintained and clearly marked.

Regular buses leave from San Jose’s central station to Puntarenas throughout the day. The bus terminal in Puntarenas is at the base of the peninsula, walking distance to the beach area and ferry terminal. Rental cars can take advantage of several parking areas along the peninsula’s main road.

For today’s video, let’s visit the area of Parque del Muellero, which is about half way along the town, on the south side. The beach in this area faces south into the Gulf of Nicoya, which has full exposure to the Pacific Ocean.

In the area, check out the Imperial Restaurant, which is on the corner of Calle Central/Av 4. It’s on the northeast corner. We had lunch there and the food was very good and well priced.

Down the path to the west, you’ll find a long chain of interconnected restaurants and shops selling all kinds of great items.

The Main Attraction

Walk a minute farther and you’ll find the large tourist sign with Puntarenas in large and striking statue letters. There’s also a very interesting theatre with blue leaves hovering above the stage.

If you’re staying in Punta Arenas, you’ll find lower cost accommodations in the mid area of town. It’s easily within walking distance to the west end of town where you’ll find the peak of the island. It’s also where you can take a ferry across the bay to Guanacaste.

Beautiful Town

Punta Arenas is a great town with lots to see. Even the drive to the peninsula is exception with great views of both mountains and ocean. There’s lots of small vendors along to road selling grilled meat and treats. Adding Punta Arenas to your itinerary is an obvious choice!

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Puntarenas FAQ: Port City Guide

Q: Where is Puntarenas located?
A: Central Pacific coast, 90 minutes from San Jose. Long peninsula extends into gulf. Main port city for region. Ferry terminal to Nicoya Peninsula.

Q: How do you get there?
A: Direct highway (Route 27) from San Jose. Regular buses from capital. Train service on weekends. Easy driving on well-marked roads. Parking available along peninsula.

Q: What facilities exist?
A: Full port city services. Bus and ferry terminals. Fresh seafood market. Public beach facilities. Local restaurants. Shopping areas. Marine supplies.

Q: What makes it special?
A: Main ferry port to Nicoya. Fresh seafood daily. Long beach walkway (Paseo). Cooler than Guanacaste. Local food specialties. Active fishing port.

Q: What activities exist?
A: Beach walking along paseo. Fresh seafood dining. Sunset viewing. Ferry trips possible. Local market visits. Marine museum. Public swimming areas.

Q: When to visit?
A: Early morning coolest for walking. Weekdays less crowded than weekends. Ferry schedule affects crowds. Morning fish market active. Local festivals vary by season.

Q: How’s transportation?
A: Easy bus connections. Regular ferry service. Train weekends only. Local taxis available. Walking good on peninsula. Parking near main areas.