Golfito

Mountains. Jungle. Sea.

Golfito

Mountains. Jungle. Sea.

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Golfito in Costa Rica

Rainforest calm on the edge of the gulf

Calm Waters, Wild Surroundings

Golfito hugs the shores of Golfo Dulce, one of the only tropical fjords in the world. Here, the water is calm enough to kayak, paddleboard, or just float—and all around you, the rainforest teems with life.

Off the Tourist Trail

Far from the resort crowds, Golfito offers a glimpse into Costa Rica’s coastal life as it used to be. Colorful wooden houses, fishing boats, and quiet mornings define the rhythm of this peaceful port town.

Gateway to Green Adventures

Golfito is the doorstep to Piedras Blancas National Park and other lesser-known reserves. Hike into misty forests, spot rare birds, and feel like you’ve got the whole jungle to yourself.

Golfito in Costa Rica

Rainforest calm on the edge of the gulf

Calm Waters, Wild Surroundings

Golfito hugs the shores of Golfo Dulce, one of the only tropical fjords in the world. Here, the water is calm enough to kayak, paddleboard, or just float—and all around you, the rainforest teems with life.

Off the Tourist Trail

Far from the resort crowds, Golfito offers a glimpse into Costa Rica’s coastal life as it used to be. Colorful wooden houses, fishing boats, and quiet mornings define the rhythm of this peaceful port town.

Gateway to Green Adventures

Golfito is the doorstep to Piedras Blancas National Park and other lesser-known reserves. Hike into misty forests, spot rare birds, and feel like you’ve got the whole jungle to yourself.

Why Visit Golfito? For Nature, Nostalgia, and No Crowds

  • Golfo Dulce – The Sweet GulfGolfito sits on the shores of Golfo Dulce, one of the few tropical fjords in the world. Paddle through calm waters, spot dolphins and sea turtles, or just float and listen to the rainforest humming in the background.
  • Rainforest Trails & Hidden ReservesNearby, you’ll find Piedras Blancas National Park—a dense and little-known rainforest full of waterfalls, birds, and adventure. Or hike the Golfito National Wildlife Refuge for sweeping views over the gulf.
  • Real Costa Rica, No FilterGolfito isn’t a touristy town. It’s raw, real, and refreshingly slow-paced. Local fisherman still cast their lines at dawn, and colorful wooden houses line the bay. Come here if you want Costa Rica without the Instagram crowds.

Check available tours in Golfito

    Where to Stay in Golfito? Rest Between Rainforest and Sea

    • Lodges by the GulfGolfito offers a handful of waterside lodges with serene gulf views and boat docks right out front. Expect sunrises over the water, howler monkeys in the trees, and kayaks ready for your next outing.
    • Jungle HideawaysVenture a bit outside town and you’ll find rustic ecolodges nestled in the rainforest. Great for birdwatchers, nature lovers, or anyone looking to truly unplug and listen to the sounds of the wild.
    • Local Guesthouses & Historic CharmYou’ll also find charming family-run hotels and vintage buildings from the town’s banana export days, many with colorful verandas and ocean breeze. Comfortable, personal, and full of character.

    Check Our Vacation Rentals in Golfito

    Green Villa in Uvita – Luxury in the Heart of Nature

    Green Villa in Uvita – Luxury in the Heart of Nature

    Experience luxury glamping in Uvita with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and views of the rainforest, just steps away from the national park.
    Luxury Jungle Glamping in Uvita – Nature & Comfort

    Luxury Jungle Glamping in Uvita – Nature & Comfort

    Experience luxury glamping in Uvita with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and views of the rainforest, just steps away from the national park.
    uvita vacation rental pet friendly

    Million-Dollar View and a Spot for Your Pup

    Escape to a peaceful mountain retreat with stunning ocean views, a refreshing pool, and pet-friendly cabins surrounded by nature. One of the few places near Marino Ballena National Park where your dog is as welcome as you are.

    Frequently asked questions

    Where is Golfito located?

    Golfito is in southern Costa Rica, in the Puntarenas province, on the western shore of Golfo Dulce—across from the Osa Peninsula.

    Is Golfito worth visiting?

    Yes, especially if you’re into off-the-beaten-path destinations. Golfito offers wildlife, calm gulf waters, rainforest hikes, and an authentic, laid-back vibe.

    How do I get to Golfito?

    You can fly from San José to Golfito’s small airport, drive (about 6–7 hours), or arrive by boat from the Osa Peninsula or Puerto Jiménez.

    Can I swim in Golfo Dulce?

    Absolutely. The water is calm and warm year-round. It’s great for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding—just keep an eye out for boat traffic.

    What is there to do in Golfito?

    Top activities include kayaking in Golfo Dulce, hiking in nearby national parks (like Piedras Blancas), birdwatching, sportfishing, and exploring the town’s historic charm.

    Are there tours from Golfito to Corcovado?

    Yes, but it’s more common to visit Corcovado via Puerto Jiménez or Sierpe. From Golfito, you can arrange boat transport or join multi-day packages.

    What kind of wildlife can I see in Golfito?

    Expect toucans, monkeys, scarlet macaws, dolphins, sea turtles, and—if you’re lucky—whales in the gulf during migration season.

    Is Golfito safe for travelers?

    Golfito is generally safe, though it’s a working town, not a resort zone. Use standard precautions, especially at night or around the port area.

    What’s the best time to visit Golfito?

    December to April is dry season and best for hiking and boat tours. Whale and dolphin watching is best from July to October.

    Is Golfito good for families or couples?

    Yes, especially for families seeking nature and calm water activities or couples looking for quiet and authentic charm away from tourist hotspots.

    Frequently asked questions

    Where is Golfito located?

    Golfito is in southern Costa Rica, in the Puntarenas province, on the western shore of Golfo Dulce—across from the Osa Peninsula.

    Is Golfito worth visiting?

    Yes, especially if you’re into off-the-beaten-path destinations. Golfito offers wildlife, calm gulf waters, rainforest hikes, and an authentic, laid-back vibe.

    How do I get to Golfito?

    You can fly from San José to Golfito’s small airport, drive (about 6–7 hours), or arrive by boat from the Osa Peninsula or Puerto Jiménez.

    Can I swim in Golfo Dulce?

    Absolutely. The water is calm and warm year-round. It’s great for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding—just keep an eye out for boat traffic.

    What is there to do in Golfito?

    Top activities include kayaking in Golfo Dulce, hiking in nearby national parks (like Piedras Blancas), birdwatching, sportfishing, and exploring the town’s historic charm.

    Are there tours from Golfito to Corcovado?

    Yes, but it’s more common to visit Corcovado via Puerto Jiménez or Sierpe. From Golfito, you can arrange boat transport or join multi-day packages.

    What kind of wildlife can I see in Golfito?

    Expect toucans, monkeys, scarlet macaws, dolphins, sea turtles, and—if you’re lucky—whales in the gulf during migration season.

    Is Golfito safe for travelers?

    Golfito is generally safe, though it’s a working town, not a resort zone. Use standard precautions, especially at night or around the port area.

    What’s the best time to visit Golfito?

    December to April is dry season and best for hiking and boat tours. Whale and dolphin watching is best from July to October.

    Is Golfito good for families or couples?

    Yes, especially for families seeking nature and calm water activities or couples looking for quiet and authentic charm away from tourist hotspots.

    Explore Golfito, Costa Rica – A Quiet Port Full of Wild Beauty

    Golfito isn’t glamorous. It isn’t crowded. And that’s precisely why you want to go there. Golfito, Costa Rica, is a sleepy little seaside town located on one side with the tranquil waters of the Golfo Dulce and on the other with the foothills of the rainforest. Not many tourists have discovered it—which is saying a lot for a country rich with over-commercialized tourist spots—but it doesn’t matter. Golfito has many huge natural attractions and access to some of the most off-the-beaten-path areas of the country.

    Let Go Explore With Me be your guide to some of Golfito’s best-kept secrets with a collection of thoughtfully planned tours with licensed locals—from jungle hikes to working fishing vessels to dolphin floats and coconut sips in the water. Golfito is located in the heart of tropical rainforest teeming with life.

    Golfito Jungle Tours – Step Into the Green

    Our guided jungle tours take you into the Golfito Wildlife Refuge, where you’ll hike beneath the trees, cross through freshwater streams, and play with monkeys and toucans—or just watch them if you’re lucky. The biodiversity is insane—no pun intended—and since we are off the beaten path compared to some of the more touristy parks in Costa Rica, it’s much more likely you’ll have the forest to yourself.

    Our guides are locals who grew up trekking through the woods, and they’ll afford you access to one of the quietest yet greenest parts along the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica.

    Golfo Dulce Boat Tours – Calm Waters, Incredible Wildlife

    The Golfo Dulce is one of only a few tropical fjords in the world—peaceful but deep, with incredible biodiversity. Our boat tours set out over the warm, calm waters to locate dolphins, sea turtles, mantas, and even whales migrating at sunrise/sunset if you’re on board at a certain time of year.

    Birders should pack their binoculars; those just along for the ride will be equally as impressed. We offer half-day and full-day excursions ideal for families, photographers, or anyone who simply wants to get out on the water and enjoy Golfito from the water.

    Why Book with Us?

    No tourist traps – Authentic, local-led experiences
    Custom itineraries – Tailored to your travel style and pace
    Expert local guides – Local, passionate guides
    Seamless planning – So you can actually relax on your vacation

    Let’s Explore Golfito Together

    Golfito isn’t for those who rush. It is for seekers, soft adventurers, those who want to hear the jungle’s rhythm and soak in the calm ocean. If this sounds like you, reach out and we will facilitate your dreams. Contact us today to create your customized experience with us in Golfito—stressful and peaceful while being true to the heart of Costa Rica.