Welcome to Costa Rica’s #1 nightlife guide.
On this page, you’ll discover the vibrant and varied nightlife scene in Costa Rica. You’ll find the perfect venue for you and your preferred night out. Whether you want to go all-out clubbing or if you’d like a more laid back dinner and drinks with a view, we’ve got your covered.
Enjoy!
Costa Rica is one of those Central American countries that are not very often in the highlight. Nevertheless, it remains a preferred holiday destination among the surrounding nations. As a travel destination, it has all that one could hope to see. From beautiful forests and natural wonders to the best party locations, you can find, pair that up with a slew of bars and restaurants accompanying the best shopping locations, and you have for yourself visits that will take care of everything you need.
Seen often as a jewel within the Central American countries, it becomes a calm and secure destination as well as an eco-tourism haven, making it among the best places to experience this tropical paradise with the least of impacts. Also, due to the long coastline and numerous beaches, it becomes a sanctuary for the people more inclined to be laid back. Enjoy the beaches, surf along the shoreline, and have many lazy days just lying in the sun enjoying good food and drink.
Costa Rica is sure to be one of those one-of-a-kind places, which will forever be etched in your memories as the place to catch the sun, surf, and relaxation in their abundance. Therefore, visiting this country should be on every traveler’s itinerary.
A Little Bit about Costa Rica
Widely known for the beaches along its coastline, this city also offers volcanoes dotting its landscape and for its incredible diversity of flora and fauna. With its rugged terrain, endless rainforest environment, and long coasts, Costa Rica is a traveler’s dream comes true. There’s no dearth of beaches to visit, with the Caribbean sea to its east and the pacific ocean to its west.
With the endless jungle stretching out, it teems with biodiversity, including several beautiful birds and cheeky monkeys. The country’s own approach to conserving its environment leads the pristine jungles to have an abundance of insects, butterflies, sloths, birds of all shapes and sizes, jungle cats, crocodiles, lizards, and frogs. The country is truly a nature lover’s paradise.
Adventure seekers can zip through the forest canopy, visit the thrilling volcanoes, get some exciting surfing done on both sides of the coast or take a swim with the dolphins and whales along with both bodies of water along the beaches.
For those more inclined to rest and take it easy, they can imbibe the essence of ‘Pura Vida,’ a nationwide expression letting you enjoy life at a slower pace and living without hassles. It’s the Hakuna Matata of the country. So, lounge on the beach, take a drink or two, and enjoy the mouth-watering cuisines on display.
Costa Rica is consistently ranked high on the Human Development Index. It performs at a high level for democratic institutions, freedom of the press, and human development. This means that it is the perfect place to visit travelers for a safe and inviting environment.
3 Unbelievable Places to Party in Costa Rica at Night
Bar El ANCLA
Take a seat right on the beautiful Samara beach and enjoy delicious dishes while the ocean waves serenade you. Evenings are more exciting, with the ocean looking even more gorgeous. Sip an ice-cold drink and enjoy the seafood and various types of cuisine served.
Hours: Opens daily from 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Address: H822+PXH, Provincia de Guanacaste, Coco, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 8708 9105
Man Cave
This is one of the hottest party spots in all of Costa Rica and is a 1920s inspired place akin to the speakeasies of yesteryears. This nightclub features luxurious interiors and chart-topping dance music playing. You can come for the drinks, stay for the environment and beautiful company.
Hours: Opens every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 a.m.
Address: Pastor Diaz Ave, Puntarenas Province, Jaco, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 8708 9105
Salsa Brava
Not just a bar serving delicious food and incredible drinks, you can also get surfing lessons and Afro-Latin dance classes within sight of the legendary surf location of Salsa Brava. Mouth-watering Caribbean food and foot-tapping reggae are the highlights of this bar.
Hours: Open from Monday to Sunday – 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Address: 100 mts sur de discoteca standfords, Limón Province, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, 70304, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2750 3196
Best Restaurants to visit in Costa Rica at Night
Caribbean Food Garage
For lovers of Caribbean food, this is a place you do not want to miss. With 100% pure Caribbean flavor and a mix of fusion foods, eating here will be the best culinary experience you will have in Costa Rica.
Best from the menu: Pasta Bolognese | Rice & Beans with Steak | Rice & Beans with Caribbean Chicken.
Hours: Monday to Thursday – 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. | Friday 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Saturday 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. | Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Address: Diagonal esquina noroeste Iglesia La Agonia frente Pollos del Este, Provincia de Alajuela, Alajuela, 20106, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2440 2828
Holy Caribbean Food
After visiting this place, your mind will go, “Holy Cow!” A haven for lovers of food, their mix of Afro-Caribbean cuisines is the thing to experience here.
Hours: Opens Daily from Tuesday to Sunday from 1:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
Address:San José Province, San Antonio District, Desamparados, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 8328 7698
Cocina Ecléctica
Serving the most delicious Latin-inspired cuisine, the self-taught head chef considers cooking her passion and uses local ingredients and exotic mixtures to significant effect to leave an excellent taste in the mouths of hungry travelers.
Best from the menu: Handmade pork gyozas in a ginger soy glaze |
Hours: Opens daily from Monday to Sunday from 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Address: WVP6+MRR, Trejos Montealegre, San José Province, San Rafael de Escazú, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 8529 2509
Roy’s Caribbean Food
Caribbean dishes brought to you straight from the experts, Roy’s is among the premier locations to have fantastic seafood, vegetable, and meat dishes from various styles of Caribbean cuisine.
Best from the menu: Caribbean Tripe Soup | Fish and Chicken Fajitas
Hours: Opens daily from Tuesday – Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. | Sunday 2:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Monday Closed
Address: XXMJ+QGG, San José Province, Vásquez de Coronado, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2294 7146
Chile Rojo
With a mix of Thai cuisine and sushi, Chile Rojo may surprise you with the authenticity of its menu. Among the most popular restaurants in the country, it is enjoyed by both visitors and locals alike. With an emphasis on the freshest ingredients, expect to be served just-caught fish and local produce with live music in the background.
Best from the menu: Shrimp pad Thai | Chicken Skewers with peanut sauce | Teriyaki sauce Salmon with rice and vegetables
Hours: Monday from 4:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. | Wednesday to Friday 4:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. | Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. | Tuesday closed
Address: Avenida 71 Next to koki beach, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2750 0421
Website: https://www.chile-rojo.com/
Zaika Indian Cuisine
They offer authentic Indian food with a class all of its own. The passion of the owners can be seen in the freshness and taste of their dishes. Enjoy the great taste of the Indian Sub-Continent with dishes hailing from the best of Indian cuisine, enjoy a plethora of seafood options and dishes to make every meal satisfying.
Best from the menu: Mutton Curry with Jeera Rice | Chicken Shahi Korma
Hours: Opens daily from Tuesday – Sunday from 11:30 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. | Monday closed
Address: El Cafetal Commercial Center, C. Arbolito, Heredia Province, Belén, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 4034 3457
Website: https://zaikabelen.com/
Cafe Viejo
Cafe Viejo is the best place to sample delectable pizza and pasta options for a taste of fine Italian cuisine. Offering various Italian dishes made in the most authentic way possible, get a slice of Italy with their eclectic collection of foods. Also available, a variety of cocktails and wines to accompany the delicious food.
Best from the menu: Mixed Fried – Fired squid, shrimp, fish of the day accompanied with Zucchini Juliana and Mediterranean Sauce. | Grilled Octopus – marinated and served with spaghetti in fresh tomato sauce.
Hours: Opens from Wednesday to Sunday from 5:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. | Closed on Tuesday
Address: Avenida 71, esquina Calle 215, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca Located in the main street, in front of Casa de la Cultura, Limón, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, 70403, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2750 0817
Website: https://cafeviejo.com/
Guilligan’s Caribbean Food
Enjoy fresh and tasty Caribbean food at Guilligan’s. Sample their most famous rice and beans along with a smattering of seafood options. Served hot and fresh from the farm to fork, you are sure to fill up on incredibly delicious fare.
Best from the menu: Rice, Beans, and Shrimp in Caribbean Sauce | The Bochniche Casado – a delicious traditional Caribbean food
Hours: Opens daily from Tuesday – Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. | Saturday from 11:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Sunday 11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Monday closed
Address: Heredia Province, Belén, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2293 7500
Maxi’s by Ricky
Have a ball with Ricky at this fantastic Caribbean restaurant. Lovingly made by the chef’s hands, the dishes have a feel of home-cooked meals and that Caribbean taste that is famous all over. Taste the delicious dishes, sip on some good drinks and enjoy your time.
Best from the menu: Fried plantain with avocado | Refried beans and Picadillo
Hours: Opens daily from Monday – Saturday from 11:45 a.m. – 11:00 p.m | Sunday 11:45 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Address: C. San Rafael, Urb. Madre Selva, San José, Santa Ana, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2282 8619
Bars to visit in Costa Rica at Night
Paradise 2.0 Beach Hub
The bar at this hotel is conveniently located close to the main road and is easily accessible by travelers. With free parking and accommodation to boot, this is a great place to put your feet up and relax with a cold drink.
Hours: Opens from Thursday – Sunday from 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. | Friday and Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. | Sunday 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. | Monday closed
Address: 25 metros al norte y 100 mts. al oeste del Supermercado El Duende Gourmet Playa Chiquita, Limón Province, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, 70403, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2750 0544
Tamara
Caribbean flavors will color your drinking experience at Tamara. Enjoy fresh Caribbean food and incredible drinks while lounging by the beach. Catch beautiful ocean views while taking a break at Tamara.
Hours: Opens daily from 11:30 a.m. until 10:00 p.m.
Address: Av. 71, Limón, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, 70401, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2750 0148
La casita de Monli Bar Restaurante
Delicious drinks and delicious seafood are what await you at La Casita de Monti. So unwind and relax with an ice-cold beverage and have a plate of the most delicate fish and seafood.
Best from the menu: Tuna Salad | Rabbit Pate
Hours: Opens from Monday – Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. | Sunday closed
Address: 256, Limón, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 8312 2619
Breweries to visit when in Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s Craft Brewing Co.
Making natural beers having an extraordinary taste, this brewery is among the top in Costa Rica. Experience a range of award-winning beers, both light and dark, with a fresh flavor and pure ingredients. Best from the bar: Mar Bella Craft Beer | Bad Parenting (6.0% Vol. alcohol) | Liberta (4.3% Vol. alcohol)
Hours: Tuesday and Wednesday 2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. | Thursday and Friday 2:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Saturday 12:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. | Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Monday Closed
Address: Brasil de Mora, San José Province, Brasil District, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2249 0919
Volcano Brewing Company
Built on the beachfront so you can take in incredible views as you sip on their unique brews. Serving quality craft brews with thirsty travelers and the surfing crowd visiting for some sound waves. Their pale ales will delight you and make you want more.
Hours: Opens daily from 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Address: C. Cerritos, Provincia de Guanacaste, Tamarindo, 50309, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2653 1262
Website: http://volcanobrewingcompany.com/
Lake Arenal Brewery
This famous brewery is located on a 15-acre organic farm, typical of the conservation efforts of Costa Ricans. Using sustainable methods to brew fine craft beers, you can enjoy the Pura Vida life when visiting this picturesque place. In addition, this eco-brewery will delight you with delicious pale ales and cocktails.
Best from the bar: Paradise Pale Ale | Black Ash Nitro Stout | Lava Red Ale
Hours: Opens daily from 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Address: 8 km on the road to New Arenal, Tilaran, 50804, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2695 5050
Website: https://www.lakearenalhotel.com/lake-arenal-brewery
Fuego Brewing Company
Located in Dominical, a beach town where you can enjoy a laid-back time sipping on some fantastic craft beers. For craft beers, fine wine, and delicious food, this is a place you have to come to. You can even visit their coffee roasting operation and sample some fine coffees as well.
Best from the bar: Craft Beers – Kuka Mango Pale Ale & Wine Guanabana Ale | Cocktails – The Fuego Margarita & Espresso Martini
Hours: Opens daily from 7:00 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Address: Dominical, Puntarenas Province, Savegre, Provincia de Puntarenas, dominical, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 8373 0635
Website: https://www.fuegobrew.com/
Las Olas Brewing
Las Olas is the place to sample a little bit of both for great beer and good fun. Serving unique craft beers to their discerning clientele and having delicious food accompany the cold beverages, craft beer is best enjoyed at Las Olas.
Best from the bar: Pair any of their craft beer with spicy chicken wings and chicken sandwich
Hours: Opens daily from 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Address: 100 Las Lomas, 400 meters east of Ventanas Guanacaste playa grande, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 6010 6498
Papagayo Brewing Co.
Featuring the best in taste from Guanacaste, this brewery brews a delicious blend of craft beers that will refresh you with their great flavors. Take a tour of their taproom and sample all the various flavors on offer.
Best from the bar: Beach Lager | Passion Fruit Ale |
Hours: Opens on a weekday from 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Closed on Saturday and Sunday
Address: Parque Solarium, Bodega 8F Guanacaste Liberia, 50101, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 6288 1367
Website: https://papagayo-brewing.com/
Ten things to do in Costa Rica at night for free
1. Enjoy the Costa Rican beaches
2. Participate in Beach Parties
3. Go hiking
4. Stargazing at the beach
5. Visit the Cabuya Cemetery
6. Go camping near the waterfalls
7. Go late-night swimming
8. Go fishing with friends
9. Hunt for seashells
10. Watch the Caribbean sunset and sunrise
Six beaches to visit in Costa Rica at Night
- Manzanillo Beach
- Playa Uvita
- Papagayo Gulf
- Playa Bahia Ballena
- Camaronal Refuge
- Golfo Dulce Reserve
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?
As a tropical country, the weather is relatively mild throughout the year. However, the climate may be a bit humid and rainy due to the rainforest. Therefore, the best time to visit Costa Rica is between December and April, when the weather is driest and enjoys bright days. Also recommended is traveling to the country during their green season, from May to June, or visiting in November.
How to get around Costa Rica?
Buses are the best way to get around Costa Rica. They remain reliable and inexpensive. Also, they frequently pass through San Jose, the capital so, they are an excellent choice to travel around the country. Cars are not recommended since they become a hassle to drive. Also, cabs are a good alternative, but they might be expensive.
Where are the best restaurants in Costa Rica?
Many great restaurants are located in the nation’s capital San José. However, popular restaurants are also found in other cities dotted around the coastline and serve various cuisines, with the most popular being Caribbean cuisine.
Is Costa Rica nightlife safe?
Costa Rica is known for its great nightlife and abundance of bars and nightclubs. There are a lot of good places to party during the night and have some delicious meals. Measures are taken that tourists remain safe in most areas of the country. Costa Rica is known for its record in maintaining a peaceful and friendly environment for people.
Which are the best places to shop in Costa Rica?
Located in the capital San Jose, there are a host of markets and shopping areas right in the heart of the city. From the Central Market featuring a host of local shops selling everything from local produce to handicrafts to the many malls in this city, it is good to get some brand name shopping done.
Conclusion
Costa Rica is a rich paradise filled with all manner of flora and fauna. It will enthrall you with its beautiful biodiversity, heavenly beaches, and natural environment. Costa Rica is a must-visit for people of all kinds. Therefore, the most amazing experiences, along with rainforests and sheer natural beauty.
But it is not all, Costa Rica is also home to great food, incredible drinks, and delectable shopping. From San Jose to the various popular towns along with the country, you can find something to do no matter where you are. So do not wait and experience the country and its fascinating experience yourself and travel down to a paradise waiting to be explored.
