Costa Rica - Restrictions

Beach Access:

All beaches in Costa Rica are designated as public (150 feet from the shoreline is public), so if you are anchored outside an all-inclusive resort or 5 star hotel they can’t tell you to go away and by law they have to allow public access through their property to get to the beach.

National Marine Parks:

National Parks are now enforcing the requirement for a permit and making the associated charges, however not all offices know the rules, so finding the correct information can be hard.

See a list of all Costa Rica National Parks here.

Isla del Coco:
https://isladelcoco.go.cr/en/

Whilst there are lovely hikes here and the scenery is spectacular, this is principally a dive destination. Application for a permit to visit Isla del Coco can only be made once you have arrived in Costa Rica as clearance papers are required. It is a complicated and lengthy procedure, especially if you do not speak Spanish.

For details about the necessary permit read this Noonsite report Costa Rica, Isla del Coco: Permit Information

Isla Cano:
https://www.sinac.go.cr/ES/ac/acosa/Paginas/IsladelCa%C3%B1o.aspx

Permits can be obtained from the Park Office in Puerto Jimenez. Diving here only permitted with a local divemaster and a special permit is required for diving.

Manuel Antonio Park:
https://manuelantoniopark.com/

The smallest national park, well known for its beaches and walking trails.

Tickets to the Manuel Antonio National Park can only be purchased online at https://serviciosenlinea.sinac.go.cr. You must create your username to proceed with the purchase.

Remember that the time slots that you will find at the time of purchase are only for entering the park, the length of stay is decided by the user. The national park hours are from Wednesday to Monday from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm and these must be respected.

The anchor payment is $18 per day and must be paid via bank transfer. Contact reservaciones.pnma@sinac.go.cr for the account numbers.

It's not possible to enter the park from the anchorage, you must come ashore at Espadilla Beach and enter through the official entrance. You must have proof of payment and the entrance fees because the park rangers will ask for them.

Wider Caribbean's Marine Protected Areas (CaMPAM)

Last updated:  August 2023