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There’s nothing like a cold Imperial in your hand with the ocean at your feet and the jungle behind you. Is it the salt in the air? The sunburn on my nose? I don’t know, but I swear Imperial tastes better when you’re in Costa Rica.
And if you’ve been to Costa Rica, you know exactly which beer I’m talking about.
Costa Rican Beer – everything you need to know
First off, it’s everywhere. Imperial isn’t just the most popular beer in Costa Rica, but it’s practically embedded in the culture. You see that golden eagle insignia on coasters, hats, beach bars, t-shirts; I even once saw it on a surfboard. It’s light, refreshing, and incredibly crushable.
It’s the ideal beverage after a long hike or on a hot day at the beach—or let’s be honest—at eleven AM because you’re on holiday and who’s judging?
For me? I’ve lost count of how many Imperials I’ve downed watching the sunset on the Pacific. It’s one of those little comforts that makes Costa Rica feel like home.
Team Imperial Beer or Team Pilsen Beer?
Now, if you order an Imperial in front of a die-hard Pilsen fan, prepare for a mild debate (and maybe a raised eyebrow). Pilsen is Imperial’s main rival—slightly stronger, with a maltier taste. Some folks swear by it. Others… politely disagree.
There’s also Bavaria (a bit fancier), Rock Ice (light and citrusy), and Bohemia (if you like your beer a little bolder).
But really, nobody’s judging your pick. As long as it’s cold and you’re in good company, you’re doing it right.
What About Craft Beer in Costa Rica?
Here’s the cool part: Costa Rica’s craft beer scene is growing fast. Sure, you’ll still find more Imperials than IPAs, but if you like trying new brews, you’re in luck.
In places like San José, Santa Teresa, Dominical, and La Fortuna, you’ll find small breweries making everything from coffee porters to passionfruit sours. One of my favorites? Fuego Brewing Co. in Uvita—killer beer, jungle views, and probably the best pizza in town.
Don’t expect ten taps and a beer flight everywhere, but keep your eyes open—you might stumble onto a taproom that makes you forget about Imperial for an afternoon.
Where to Grab a Costa Rican Beer (Hint: Everywhere)
Buying beer in Costa Rica is as easy as finding a coconut. Supermarkets, little corner shops (pulperías), and liquor stores have a solid selection, usually including all the local brands.
Beach bars? They’ve got it. Restaurants? Of course. Occasionally, you’ll even meet a friendly guy with a cooler on the sand—though technically, that’s not quite legal.
Speaking of which…
Can You Drink Beer on the Beach?
Short answer: officially no, but actually yes—if you’re chill about it.
Drinking alcohol in public places is technically against the rules. But on the beach? If you’re discreet, not bothering anyone, and pick up after yourself, you’re probably good. Just don’t bring glass bottles, don’t party like it’s Spring Break, and maybe don’t pop one open next to a police station.
Locals do it. Tourists do it. The key is to keep it classy.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Drink in Costa Rica?
The legal drinking age in Costa Rica is 18—so if you’re old enough to vote, you’re old enough to order a cold Imperial. And yes, they do check IDs, especially in bars and liquor stores. Most bartenders won’t care if you’re 19 or 29, but if you look like you just graduated high school, be ready to flash that passport.
Pro tip: leave the physical copy at the hotel and carry a photo or copy instead—just in case. And it’s best if you take a look at this piece for more details: Legal Drinking Age in Costa Rica: What You Need to Know
My Go-To Costa Rican Beer Ritual
After years of bouncing between beach towns, jungle lodges, and roadside sodas, I’ve developed a bit of a routine.
Step 1: Finish the hike (sweaty, satisfied, starving).
Step 2: Find a shady spot with a view.
Step 3: Order an Imperial bien fría—ice-cold, ideally with condensation running down the bottle.
Step 4: Sit back, take a sip, and wonder how life got so good.
Whether you’re a lager loyalist or a craft beer connoisseur, Costa Rica’s got a bottle with your name on it. And trust me, it’ll taste even better when there’s sand between your toes.
