Blessed with some of the most charming stretches of beach in Costa Rica, Drake Bay and its surrounds is much more than a layover on your way to Corcovado National Park. Go where many tourists haven’t with this all-encompassing guide to Drake Bay.
Drake Bay is one of the most popular jumping-off points for Corcovado National Park (and rightfully so). But there’s much more than meets the eye along the picture-perfect coastline in the enchanting Osa Peninsula.
I just returned from another trip to Costa Rica, and Drake Bay played no small role in me falling in love with the country all over again.
Clusters of colourful buildings climb up from the main beach, reached by dusty roads. It makes for a sweaty pull-up on the inevitably hot afternoons but it’s also a huge reason why it’s off the tourist trail to begin with. You need to do your homework.
Not to worry. That’s where this travel guide comes into play. I researched tirelessly and discovered some truly hidden gems right in the heart of Drake Bay.
The remote stretch of Pacific Coastline is named after English explorer (and privateer) Francis Drake, who is said to have sailed in and out of Bahia Drake during his travels. Dig deeper, and you may hear rumours of buried jewels and gemstones in the jungles or along the shores.
The true treasures of this area lie in its rich array of nature trails, thriving marine life, and laid-back vibes.
Drake Bay is also a perfect place to just unwind and enjoy everything that rings true about Pura Vida in Costa Rica. My advice? Hang out in a hammock, settle in with a cold drink, and revel in the fact that this is a place to do nothing, and do it with glee.
Keep reading to learn exactly everything you need to know to plan a trip to one of Costa Rica’s best-kept secrets.
Things to Do in Drake Bay
Playa Colorada
Playa Colorada covers the main stretch of Agujitas de Drake village, with a large section of sandy beaches and blue waters along the edge of Drake Bay.
To be completely honest, I didn’t think this was the most beautiful beach in the area (more on that one below). But, it’s still a lovely place to chill out, have sundowners at a nearby restaurant, and take in the beauty of Drake Bay.
You’ll also begin and end your day trips and overnight stays in this area. The boat taxis pull up on the sandy shores, so remember to bring your water shoes for the splashy entry and exit.
My favourite area of the beach is on the far southwestern edge. It’s less crowded, and you can grab some bangin’ food and beers with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean at Claudio’s Grill (more on that in the food and drink section below).
Playa Colorada is also a phenomenal place to watch the sunset. I had a few favourites on my last trip, but watching the orange-red glow light up Drake Bay from the beach was seriously perfect.
Snorkelling Trip to Isla del Cano Biological Reserve
About 45 minutes from Agujitas de Drake is one of the most pristine coral reefs in Costa Rica, Isla del Cano Biological Reserve.
Snorkelling on a tour (you can only go with an expert loca guide) allows you to swim with more marine life than I knew possible around the tropical island.
I’ve swam in some beautiful places, but the moment I entered the water I couldn’t believe my eyes. Sea turtles, sharks, angel fish, and rays were only a few of the many sea creatures below the surface. I’m about to publish a whole piece on how to plan a trip to Cano Island, so go and check that out next.
The island is home to a well-preserved coral reef system that’s one of the best on the Pacific Coast. I promise you won’t want to miss a chance to explore this biological reserve on your next trip to Costa Rica.
Whale Watching Trip (During Season)
If you time your trip to Drake Bay during the rainy season, you can add a very special outing to your Costa Rica itinerary.
Whale watching is in peak form from July through October, giving you a chance to see humpbacks as they move up and down the Pacific Coast.
If you’ve ever seen a humpback whale breaching, it’s truly extraordinary. The 80,000-pound creatures leap from the sea, performing aerial tricks you can even see from the beach at times. Your chances of seeing it here are in your favour.
This isn’t your ordinary whale-watching trip, either. Drake Bay is where humpbacks come to start their families and give birth, setting up a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see baby whales in person. You can’t make this stuff up!
What is your best way to see them up close? Book a guided tour, where you’ll set out on a chartered boat for the best views.
Or, if you plan to visit Isla del Cano, Pacheco Tours helps locate them on your journey to the snorkelling hot spot.
If you want the very best month to visit, I’d recommend August. Sightings are at their peak, and the rainy season isn’t quite as intense as it gets in late September through October.
Unfortunately, I didn’t travel to Drake Bay during the whale migration, but you better believe I plan to go back.
Visit Corcovado National Park As a Day Trip or Overnight Stay
Corcovado National Park is a storybook park located just a short distance from Drake Bay, which you can reach by boat.
You can do this as a day trip or overnight stay, either of which is an incredible opportunity to see one of the most biodiverse locations anywhere in the world. Or, step up the adventure (like I did) and try an epic 3-day tour.
However long you’re there, expect to see brightly coloured toucans, the elusive Baird’s tapir, and 4 species of monkeys swinging from the rainforest canopies.
Here’s a look at two ways to visit the park.
On a Day Trip
If you only have enough time to do a day trip to Corcovado National Park, don’t fret.
The good news is that when you go on your mandatory guided tour (you can’t go into the park alone), you’ll see wildlife from the moment you step off the boat (pack water shoes).
Prepare to wake up early. Your boat leaves Drake Bay around 6 am, giving you several hours to hike the trails near Sirena Station.
It costs $165 per person and includes park entrance, water taxi, and a nature guide to help you find rare birds and mammals high up in the rainforest trees.
Overnight
Travellers who have a bit more time can (and should) opt for an overnight tour. It costs a bit more at $395 per person for one night or $615 for two, but I absolutely think it’s worth the extra cash if it fits into your trip budget.
Staying overnight allows you to go on longer hikes and observe wildlife in the evening and first thing in the morning when animals like two-toed sloths are their most active.
I won’t lie, the accommodation at the ranger stations is pretty basic – at Sirena it was in a giant open-air dorm (there must have been at least 50 people in there so of course there were some pretty loud snorers thrown into the mix).
You return to Drake Bay by boat mid-afternoon on the overnight or via a jungle hike (with a bonus waterfall plunge pool) if you take the two-night tour from Sukia Travel like I did.
Playa San Josecito
When you visit the beaches in Drake Bay you can count on seeing some of the prettiest beaches in the country. In my opinion, Playa San Josecito is the most beautiful.
The stretch of white sands and jungle forests in the Osa Peninsula requires more planning than Colorada, but it’s worth the effort.
So, how do you get to my favourite beach in Drake Bay? I got you covered. Here’s a look at two different ways to get there.
Hiking in
Hiking is the most scenic way to experience the area on your way to the beach.
It’s not an easy stroll. This out-and-back hike involves trekking about 3 hours each way and some significant elevation change. After doing a rinsing multi-day trek through Corcovado, I was not down for this option.
Nonetheless, hiking the trail is a phenomenal way to see similar topography and wildlife that you may spot at Corcovado if you can’t make it on a tour. The rich foliage is home to colourful macaws, monkeys, and lizards.
By Boat
Alternatively, you can hire a boat from Drake Bay. They aren’t cheap (ranging from $30-$50 per person) but make it easier on your feet.
The journey takes about 20 minutes each way and is a good way to see dolphins or whales if you travel from July through October.
Bring snorkel gear however you get there. The crystal clear waters are ideal for spotting colourful coral reefs, bright tropical fish, and sea turtles.
Top Tip
Keep an eye out for jellyfish, as they have stung visitors from time to time.
Best Places to Eat and Drink in Drake Bay
Drake Bay doesn’t have a tonne of restaurants to choose from (and many of them are in hotels). Not to worry, I did the hard work of finding which are the best to visit.
What is there to eat? Seafood is plentiful, and you can try some good Costa Rican dishes like ceviche and seafood in coconut soup at local spots.
Here’s a look at a few of my favourites in Drake Bay.
Marisqueria Roberto’s
££
Perched high above Playa Colorada, Marisqueria Roberto’s celebrates the seafood from Drake Bay while boasting an equally impressive view.
The menu offers a variety of local and international dishes, such as ceviche, seafood coconut soup, and fish tacos. If you’re craving something from land instead of sea, you can also get a burger or quesadilla.
But to be completely honest, you’re mostly coming here for the views. Looking out from just above the town’s main beach is a perfect backdrop for sundowners and snacks.
Service can take a little while (it’s relatively small and fills up fast), so don’t arrive overly hungry or expect to be hangry.
Kalaluna Bistro
£££
Make a reservation in advance if you want to try this popular restaurant above Playa Colorada. I’m happy I did.
Space is limited at the cosy indoor/outdoor restaurant, but service is cheerful, and the views are beautiful at Kalaluna Bistro.
The tab was about $30 (₡15,500) per person for food, and you can tack on a bit extra if you order wine. The quality and service are well worth the extra cost IMHO.
The talented family-run staff serves beautiful (and tasty) plates. The seafood-focused menu includes Costa Rican specialties and pasta.
It’s a great place to change things up and have a romantic dinner. The international wine list features some nice selections from South America and Europe.
Claudio’s Grill
£££
I think Claudio’s Grill is likely the coolest overall restaurant in Drake Bay. The staff is laid-back but welcoming, it’s tucked away with an up-close view of the southwestern shores of Playa Colorada, and the food is straight-up delish.
Prices are on the higher side, but portions are hearty, and the ingredients are fresh.
Opt for plates like baby back ribs with potato wedges, or a grilled dorado with salsa that I think is the best deal on the menu at only $17 (₡18,735).
Toss back a couple of cold beers and chat with the friendly staff and patrons for a dose of Pura Vida on the outskirts of Corcovado National Park. Again, this is one you’ll need to book ahead – particularly in high season.
Know Before You Go: Practical Tips to Plan Your Drake Bay Trip
- Carry a refillable water bottle (no single-use plastic is allowed).
- If you go swimming (or even wading) near the river’s junction with the beach, be aware that crocodiles and sharks live in these waters. No lie, I saw one a few steps from my boat in Corcovado.
- Jellyfish are somewhat common. A rash vest can help guard your upper body.
- Pack your belongings into a dry bag for boat trips. I saved my camera and electronics by doing this.
- Speaking of electronics… you will want your GoPro for Isla del Cano and Playa San Josecito.
- Wear reef-friendly sunscreen anytime you go in the water.
- You’ll spend a fair amount of time on boats, so bring seasickness tablets if you suffer. One guy in our group couldn’t do the second snorkel because he felt so queasy during his first session.
- Be careful of Africanized honeybees. If you get swarmed, run as fast as possible to shelter inside.
Snakes are a thing in the jungles. The fer de lance (pit viper) is extremely deadly, so don’t wander off trail and always look ahead.
Typical Cost of Travelling in Drake Bay
Average daily spending will typically be between $175 to $450 (₡89,925 to ₡231,230) per day with accommodations in Drake Bay on a mid-range basis. Add $250 to $450 (₡128,465 to ₡231,230) more if you’re travelling on a luxury basis.
Average Daily Costs
- Hotel
- Mid-Range $60 to $200 (₡30,837 to ₡102,790)
- Luxury $250 to $600 (₡128,490 to ₡308,370)
- Food – $40 to $80 (₡20,570 to ₡41,115)
- Private Transport – $0 to $20 (₡0 to ₡10,300)
- Tours – $60 to $200 (₡30,840 to ₡₡102,790)
How Long to Visit Drake Bay?
Drake Bay features some of the prettiest stretches of sandy beaches and tropical forests in Costa Rica. So, I really encourage you to spend at least a few days here.
But if your Osa Peninsula itinerary only includes 1-2 days, here’s what you need to know.
One Day
One day in Drake Bay gives you enough time to experience a few of the main highlights before embarking on a Corcovado National Park tour.
You can easily fit in a day trip to either Isla del Cano Biological Reserve or Playa San Josecito, catch a sunset on Playa Colorada, and enjoy a meal at a Drake Bay restaurant in a day.
Two to Three Days
If you book an extra night or two in Drake Bay, you can kick back and embrace a slower pace of life between tours. This is what I did, and it was so worth it.
This way, you won’t feel rushed, and you can snorkel at both Playa San Josecito and Isla del Cano (or take a whale-watching tour during the rainy season). Trust me, you want to spend as much time on the beaches here as you can.
Best Time to Visit Drake Bay
Drake Bay is beautiful anytime of year, with average temperatures almost always between 24°C and 26°C (75°F and 79°F).
But there are two seasons here (despite consistent temperatures). Here’s a look at each and which I recommend.
Dry Season
December to April is known as the dry season, where you’ll rarely get more than 200 millimetres (8 inches) of rain in a month.
This is perfect for long days at the beach or wildlife adventuring in Corcovado National Park, especially if it’s your first visit.
Do keep in mind that hotel rates are at their highest, and trails are more crowded, so book your accommodations and tours far in advance.
Rainy Season
Rainy season in Corcovado is no joke. Some months (mainly October) are so rainy that you can’t even visit Corcovado because the roads and Sirena Station close down.
I’m not exaggerating. Drake Bay can average almost one inch of rain every day during peak rainy season.
A little planning, however, can score you some great deals on tours and hotels and still allow you to have a good time doing it.
You can travel during shoulder season (May or November) and experience drier weather, which is perfect for exploring the jungle or chilling on the beach.
It’s also a bit hotter, with highs reaching 32°C (90°F), so pack plenty of water and lightweight clothing.
Where to Stay in Drake Bay
When people think of Drake Bay, they think of the town of Agujitas de Drake. This village runs from the eastern section of the main beach (Playa Colorada) to the edge of Rio Agujitas.
It’s actually close enough to walk back from the park’s southern corner, which I did on this hike to Playa Colorada. There are lots of eco-lodges and even a luxury villa or two, and the easy access to the boat taxis makes it the best choice for first-time visitors.
I list a couple of my favourite choices below.
Alternatively, you can find more remote accommodations north of town if you want a quieter experience away from the village.
Drake Bay Getaway Resort (Luxury)
This upscale eco-lodge is in a perfect location, just up the hill from popular Colorada Beach. In fact, the views from your room (or private balcony with a hammock) look directly down at Drake Bay.
You’ll enjoy shuttle transportation to and from the airport, a restaurant and room service on-site, and the chance to book just about any activity on water or land you can dream up through the hotel.
Bonus points for the fairy-tale butterfly garden on the property.
Jacamar Corcovado Drake Bay (Mid-Range)
Making your way up the steps to the rooms at Jacamar Corcovado Drake Bay, you’ll notice you’re surrounded by a lush garden with tropical plants framing the wooden building above. When in Rome…
Rooms are a bit scaled back, but perfectly comfortable, with twin or double beds available in each.
The price is right, and you get hooked up with WiFi, AC, and a fridge to make you feel right at home. It’s also just a short walk from the best activities and dining in town.
How to Get to Drake Bay?
You can reach Drake Bay by land or sea; it’s really up to you.
Personally, I did both – flew there and got the boat when I left (you know what they say about variety) and it was honestly perfect.
By Plane
Let’s start with the easiest route: fly from San Jose’s Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJC) to the teeny tiny Drake Bay Airport (DRK), which takes about 40 minutes. Once you’re there, your private transfer (make sure you arrange this in advance as there aren’t any taxis waiting at the airport) can take you to your accommodation in about 15-20 minutes.
Flights cost around $170 per person (₡87,000), including the fare for heavier luggage, around 40 pounds. It’s marginally ($20 or so) cheaper if you book the fare with lighter luggage (30 pounds) and if you book as far in advance as possible.
Transfers cost around $10-$12 (₡5,100 – ₡6,100) for a shared ride to the town or $20 (₡10,200) for a private one. Some hotels also include airport transfers.
By Boat
If you drive (or take the bus) from San Jose to Sierpe, you can boat into Drake Bay. The bus is under $20 but it leaves at 7:30 am for San Jose on the way back. This means you need to spend a night in Sierpe.
I think driving is the way to go if you choose Sierpe and you can park your car near Hotel Oleaje Sereno.
There are two boats each day, leaving Sierpe for Drake Bay at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Book these in advance (with your hotel or travel agency in town), or you run the risk of there not being enough room on board.
Pay the captain the $20 (₡10,200), and prepare for a wet embarkation/disembarkation in Drake Bay. No joke.
I’m talking about hopping straight into the water from the boat, so wear some water shoes and wrap your luggage in a protective cover.
The journey on the boat takes around an hour.
It’s through a mangrove forest to the open water, so be sure to slather on the sunscreen before setting off. Although most boats are partially covered, whether you get any shade is a complete luck of the draw.
Suggested Itineraries
2 Days in Drake Bay
Hike to Playa San Josecito – Sunset at Playa Colorada – Snorkelling at Isla del Cano – Dinner at Claudio’s Grill Destination
Discover the Osa Peninsula’s incredible biodiversity underwater and on land on this alternative itinerary to Corcovado.
Corcovado National Park Trip
Dinner and Sunset at Kalaluna Bistro – Overnight Trip to Corcovado National Park – Snorkelling Tour at Isla del Cano and Playa San Josecito – Whale-Watching Tour
See the best of Drake Bay and Corcovado on this 3-5 day trip. Enjoy epic sunsets, wild jungles, and underwater adventures on this once-in-a-lifetime itinerary.
Map
Read More Costa Rica Travel Guides
- 15 Wonderful Things to Do in Costa Rica
- 2 Days in Arenal, Costa Rica: The Perfect Weekend Arenal Itinerary
- Things to do in Manuel Antonio
- The Insider’s Guide to Corcovado National Park
- How to Spend 10 Perfect Days in Costa Rica
Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest!
