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You’ve packed your sunscreen, your sandals, and your trusty vape. But before you start puffing away on the beach in Costa Rica, it’s worth knowing the rules — and yes, there are rules.
Vaping in Costa Rica is legal, but it’s far from a free-for-all. There are regulations, restrictions, and a few quirks that might surprise you — especially if you’re a tourist thinking “well, it’s just vapor.”
Spoiler: local authorities may not see it that way.
Is Vaping Legal in Costa Rica?
Yes — vaping is legal in Costa Rica, but it’s regulated in much the same way as traditional smoking. That means you can vape, but not just anywhere you feel like it.
Under Costa Rica vaping laws, e-cigarettes fall under the country’s broader anti-tobacco legislation. That means:
- No vaping in public spaces
- No vaping on public transport
- No vaping in government buildings, airports, schools, or healthcare facilities
- And yes — no vaping in restaurants and bars, unless there’s a designated smoking area (which is rare)
If you’re caught ignoring these restrictions, you could be looking at a fine. It’s not wildly common for tourists to get ticketed, but it does happen — especially in more regulated areas like San José or national parks.
Public Vaping in Costa Rica: Big No No
Yes, vaping is legal in Costa Rica — but that doesn’t mean you can vape just anywhere. Since 2024, Costa Rica has tightened its smoke-free legislation, and vaping is now banned in many public spaces.
Under the current law (No. 10.066), using e-cigarettes or vapes is strictly prohibited in:
- Healthcare facilities
- Workplaces
- Schools and universities
- Shopping centers
- Casinos, nightclubs, and discos
- Bars and restaurants
- Hotels and lodging facilities
- Sports venues and stadiums
These areas must display clear signage stating that vaping/smoking is not allowed, and failure to comply can result in fines.
Open-air locations like beaches and parks are not always explicitly included in the ban, but it’s still a good idea to practice discretion. If there are people around — especially children — it’s best to step away or ask if it’s okay. Local etiquette tends to lean conservative when it comes to public vaping.
And yes — even if you’re a tourist, the same rules apply.
If you’re unsure whether vaping is allowed, ask a local or check for no-smoking signs. Better safe than trying to argue Costa Rican health law in Spanish.
Age Restrictions and Vaping Laws for Tourists
The legal age to vape in Costa Rica is 18 — same as for cigarettes. Most shops will ask for ID, especially if you look young or are buying in urban areas.
And yes, even tourists are expected to follow Costa Rica e-cigarette regulations. No one’s giving you a pass just because you’re “not from here.” That’s not how things work — especially if the police catch you blowing clouds in a place you shouldn’t be.
What Happens If You Break the Rules?
Minor infractions (like vaping in a no-smoking zone) usually result in a warning or a fine. But in more serious cases, especially if you argue with an official or vape where minors are present, you could be facing heavier penalties.
Vaping penalties in Costa Rica range from a few dollars to over $100, depending on the situation. And trust me — paying fines in a foreign country while trying to explain what “salt nic” is to a local officer is not how you want to spend your afternoon.
The Bottom Line on Vaping in Costa Rica
If you’re wondering is vaping legal in Costa Rica — yes, it is. But there are rules, and they matter. Costa Rica’s approach is “you can vape, but don’t make a scene.” Respect local customs, follow posted signs, and don’t assume the jungle is a free-for-all just because you’re on vacation.
Treat vaping like alcohol: fun, personal, and best enjoyed with a little discretion.
P.S. We Know This Country Inside Out
At GoExploreWith.me, we’re not just about tours and trip planning — we live here, we know the laws, and we’ve helped thousands of travelers avoid the classic mistakes.
Need help finding the best places to stay, legal gray areas to avoid, or just want your Costa Rica trip to go smoothly from the first puff to the last sunset? We’ve got you.
Bonus Tip: Download Our Free eBook
Want to explore Costa Rica beyond the usual tourist trails? Grab our free eBook — “10 Hidden Gems in Costa Rica You’ve Never Heard Of”.
Packed with real insider tips, secret spots, and local advice (like “don’t vape near the national police station”), it’s the best way to make your trip unforgettable — and drama-free.
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