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If you’re the kind of traveler who gets excited when the map starts looking empty, Drake Bay is your kind of place. Tucked away on the wild Osa Peninsula, this former fishing village is about as off-the-beaten-path as you can get without needing a machete. No massive resorts. No paved roads (seriously). Just raw nature, rugged coastlines, and the kind of silence that makes your ears perk up.
Welcome to Drake Bay, Costa Rica—where the jungle meets the Pacific and the Wi-Fi is… well, let’s just say “optional.”
How to Get to Drake Bay (It’s Part of the Adventure)
Let’s not sugarcoat it: getting to Drake Bay isn’t a breeze. But that’s part of the fun.
You’ve got a few options:
- Fly from San José to the tiny Drake Bay airstrip (fast and scenic).
- Drive and boat combo: 6+ hours of adventure, finishing with a boat ride up the Sierpe River.
- Boat from Sierpe: highly recommended—think Jurassic Park meets river safari.
The remoteness keeps the crowds away and the vibe beautifully unplugged.
What to Do in Drake Bay (Besides Stare at How Beautiful It Is)
Despite its remote location, there’s no shortage of things to do—especially if you like your travel a little wild.
- Corcovado National Park tours: This is the crown jewel. You’ll need a guide (mandatory), but it’s worth every sweaty step. Expect tapirs, toucans, monkeys, and if you’re lucky—jaguars.
- Snorkeling or diving at Caño Island: Think reef sharks, rays, turtles, and visibility that makes your GoPro look good.
- Jungle hikes & birdwatching: Wake up to scarlet macaws flying overhead and go to sleep with frog choruses outside your cabin.
- Sunsets on the beach: No explanation needed.
Just don’t come expecting shopping malls or nightlife. The nightlife here is mostly crickets and stars—and that’s exactly the point.
Where to Stay in Drake Bay
You won’t find all-inclusives or mega hotels here. Instead, Drake Bay offers:
- Eco-lodges surrounded by rainforest
- Beachfront cabinas where the ocean is your soundtrack
- Family-run guesthouses with some of the best home-cooked meals in Costa Rica
Some of our favorites? Aguila de Osa, Pirate Cove, and the ever-authentic Poor Man’s Paradise.
Heads-up: many places include meals and tours in their rates. And trust us—you won’t be wandering off to a convenience store. Pack light, but pack smart.
Is Drake Bay Family-Friendly?
Short answer: yes, it is a family-friendly place for the right kind of family.
If your kids love nature, mud, animals, and being off-screen, they’ll love it here. If they need theme parks or fast food… maybe keep driving. The terrain can be challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding for curious little adventurers.
Best Time to Visit Drake Bay
Dry season (December–April) is your safest bet weather-wise, but July and August can also bring a “mini-summer” in the rainy season. Whale watching? Come between July and October, or January to March.
But honestly? Even in the rain, this place feels like magic.
Need Help Getting There or Booking a Stay?
We get it—Drake Bay feels remote and mysterious (because it is). But don’t worry, we’ve helped plenty of travelers find their way here without losing their minds—or their bags.
At GoExploreWith.me, we offer easy, no-stress booking for transport, lodging, and epic local tours with certified guides. Want to explore Corcovado or snorkel at Caño? We’ll sort it.
Check out Drake Bay tours and lodging here
Bonus: Get Our Free eBook
Before you pack your boots and binoculars, grab our free travel eBook: “10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of.”
Drake Bay made the list (obviously), but there’s more magic waiting.
