The province of Limón, located on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, stands out for its unique cultural identity, which developed due to historical factors dating back to the late 1800s. The region has strong Afro-Caribbean influences, brought by Jamaican laborers who came to work on the construction of the railway and banana plantations.
To boost tourism and interest in Limón, the Costa Rican government has launched a new campaign focused on the province’s natural beauty and cultural richness. This includes plans to renovate Puerto Limón’s cruise and marine terminals as well as its airport, aiming to make the area more accessible and attractive to visitors.
Puerto Viejo, a popular beach town in Limón, is particularly known for its laid-back atmosphere, vibrant Caribbean culture, and stunning coastal views. Recently, Tico Times photographer Jacob Spetzler spent a weekend in Puerto Viejo capturing the essence of this beautiful town. His photos highlight the region’s picturesque beaches, colorful streets, and diverse wildlife, showing why Puerto Viejo remains a favorite destination for both locals and tourists.
The efforts to develop Limón further, through infrastructure improvements and focused tourism campaigns, seek to celebrate and promote its cultural heritage, which is distinctly different from other parts of Costa Rica. The region’s Afro-Caribbean culture, stunning rainforests, and breathtaking beaches make Limón a gem waiting to be fully explored by both domestic and international travelers.
