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You booked your flights and packed your swimsuit—heck, you’ve even practiced your best “pura vida” in front of the mirror. You’re ready for your getaway to Costa Rica. But before you dive into a waterfall and order a mango smoothie, let’s talk about some rules. Not those kind of rules.
The rules that might save your life—or at least a hefty fee for drinking a beer on the beach or accidentally entering a romantic relationship with a capuchin monkey. They’re not killjoys—they’re realities that they don’t always tell you when selling you the postcard.
Costa Rica Laws You Need to Know
You would think a place like this is too good to be true—it’s a lawless paradise of pura vida and jungle dreams—and for the most part, it is. But don’t get so lost in the howler monkeys and the hammocks—Costa Rica has some laws, and they might be stricter than you’d expect.
Cracking a Beer on the Beach? Better Not.
I get it. Sun’s out, beer’s cold, toes in the sand… it feels right. But technically? Drinking alcohol in public spaces — like beaches, sidewalks, or parks — is illegal in Costa Rica. Do people still do it? Yeah. But if the police roll by and spot that Imperial in your hand, they can fine you.
Safer bet: grab a beach bar, order the same beer, and enjoy it with a legal side of ceviche.
The Speed Limit Isn’t Just a Suggestion
Tourists are notorious for underestimating Costa Rican roads. They look short on the map, sure — but between surprise potholes, cows, and corners that sneak up on you like a bad ex, you do not want to be speeding.
And if you go over 120 km/h? That’s not just a ticket, it’s legally considered criminal behavior. Slow down. The sloth would.
Weed: Not Legal (Sorry)
Okay, deep breath: medical marijuana is legal here now, and that’s a big step. But recreational use? Still a no-go. Having a joint on you won’t get you locked up, especially if it’s under 8 grams — but it’s still not officially legal. Think of it as tolerated, not approved.
So yeah — you might smell it around, but if you’re a tourist, it’s smarter to stick with the fresh juice and leave the experimentation for your home country.
Smoking Is Basically Banned Everywhere
Want to light up in a restaurant, bar, bus stop, or near a kid’s playground? Big nope. Costa Rica has strict no-smoking laws, and that includes vaping too.
You can smoke on the street, technically. Just, you know… don’t do it next to a family building sandcastles.
Driving? Yes You Can — But Read the Fine Print
You can absolutely rent a car here and drive with your foreign license. But you must have your passport and license on you while driving. And don’t be surprised by random police checkpoints — they’re routine and they’ll definitely ask.
Pro tip: Google Maps is decent, Waze is better, and “I thought it was a shortcut” is not a valid excuse for ending up in a river crossing.
Sex Work Is Legal, But It’s Not a Free-for-All
Yep, Costa Rica allows consensual adult sex work. But pimping, trafficking, or running anything that resembles a brothel? Hard no. It’s a legal gray zone that can get dark fast.
If something feels sketchy, it probably is. And no, your resort bartender doesn’t want to “set you up”.
Tipping: Built In, But Feel Free to Be Generous
Most restaurants add a 10% service charge to the bill — it’s already included. But if your server was extra awesome, an extra couple of bucks in colones will absolutely make their day.
Taxi drivers, shuttle guides, and your volcano-hiking tour guy also appreciate a little something if they went above and beyond. It’s not expected, but always appreciated.
Park Fees Are Higher for Tourists — and That’s Fine
Yes, you’re paying more than locals to get into national parks. Is it fair? Debatable. Is it going toward conservation and keeping those waterfalls and trails beautiful? Definitely.
Consider it a donation to the toucan protection fund.
Topless Sunbathing? Technically Allowed, Socially Weird
You can go topless on Costa Rican beaches, and no one’s going to call the police — but they might call you “that weird tourist”. It’s not illegal, just uncommon. Especially in areas with families.
If you find a remote beach where no one’s around, fine. Just maybe skip it in Manuel Antonio on a Sunday afternoon.
Costa Rica Laws – Don’t Wing Immigration
When you land, be ready to show:
- your valid passport,
- your return ticket or proof you’re leaving the country. No, “I’m not sure yet” isn’t going to work.
Border officials aren’t cruel, they’re just doing their job. Show up prepared and you’ll breeze through. Forget, and you might get stuck explaining your “vibes-based itinerary” to someone with a clipboard.
Feeding Animals? Big No-No
That monkey may look adorable, and yes, your banana seems like the perfect offering… but don’t. Feeding wildlife in Costa Rica is illegal, bad for the animals, and a great way to attract five more monkeys to your lunch spot.
Also, they bite. So there’s that.
Don’t Pocket the Ocean: Leave Shells and Coral Behind
Taking shells, coral, or starfish from Costa Rican beaches is illegal. Even tiny souvenirs can harm protected ecosystems — and yes, customs might check. Best to admire, not pack.
Giving to Panhandlers: Legal, but Use Judgment
You’ll probably see people asking for change, especially in bigger towns or outside supermarkets. It’s legal to give, and many locals do. Just be discreet — pulling out your fat wallet in a crowd is not the move. Don’t flash the cheese.
If you want to help, a small coin or snack goes a long way.
Want to Explore Costa Rica Without Accidentally Breaking the Law?
At GoExploreWith.me, we help you do exactly that. Whether you’re booking waterfalls, wildlife tours, or just need a guide who shows up on time-ish, we’ve got your back.
Everything is local, easy, and handled by real people who actually live here.
Love Rules, Hate Crowds?
If you’re already this deep into Costa Rica laws, you’re clearly a responsible traveler. So here’s something special:
Download our free eBook: “10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of”
It’s full of off-the-map places where the only rule is: slow down and enjoy it.
