The two coasts of Costa Rica (the Pacific and the Caribbean) are as different as the sun and moon. The Caribbean coast is unique in that it features more traditional culture and food, most likely because it had been isolated from the rest of the country for so long. Dense jungles and poor roads have left the original inhabitants somewhat isolated for centuries. As a result, the Caribbean coast offers unique cultural experiences that can't be found anywhere else in Costa Rica. Even the weather is different here as compared to the rest of the country, with the Caribbean cost featuring more of a tropical heat.

It was here that Christopher Columbus first landed and dubbed the region the "Rich Coast." Much of the land that he saw from his ships remains almost identical today, as many acres of virgin forest still exist just off the sandy beaches. Most of the north coast is inaccessible by road, and boats and planes are the only modes of transportation to some of these isolated coves. The resulting natural treasures have been protected and preserved in the form of national parks, with Tortuguero National Park and Barra del Colorado National Wildlife Refuge as the most popular spots among tourists and travelers. Located on the northernmost coast on the Caribbean side, the area is home to endangered sea turtles that nest along the beaches.

Much of the Caribbean coast is covered with forests and cultivated banana plantations. Early in the country's history, African slaves were brought in to work on the plantations, and the result of this cultural mix is a predominantly African-Caribbean culture. The unique music, food and dance are evident today in the cities and villages along the Caribbean coast. Your Costa Rica Realtor can make suggestions as to what locations are best for enjoying this unique blend of cultures.

Anchored by the bustling city of Limon, the Caribbean coast has much to offer the adventuresome as well as those looking for rest and relaxation. Limon is the finest port in the region, and serves as the crossroads for all kinds of shipping and exporting operations. Cruise ships also take advantage of the deep waters around Limon and feature it as a port of call. Local flora and fauna will amaze you as you search for sloths high up in the trees and marvel at the many colorful migrating birds in Limon. Historically important architecture can be found throughout the city and these structures have survived the many earthquakes that have plagued the region.

Limon is seen as the entrance to Tortuguero, one of Costa Rica's top attractions. This national park is perfect for anyone to enjoy rain and cloud forests, rolling hills, diverse wildlife, the salty scent of the ocean, and fragrant flowers. Limon real estate and Caribbean real estate are investments into a world with a stable democracy, no military and a government that encourages investors. Foreign land owners are entitled to the same rights as Costa Rican citizens, so be sure to ask your Costa Rica Realtor about the many advantages of buying Limon real estate.

If you're in the market for a more spirited atmosphere, Puerto Viejo is the city on the Caribbean coast. Located further south than Limon, Puerto Viejo is quickly emerging on the world's surf scene as an excellent place to ride the waves. You'll also find beaches nearby with more gentle surf, perfect for swimming and sunning. Nearby, the Finca la Isla Botanical gardens provide an interesting day trip for those based in Puerto Viejo. Continue your tour of nature by visiting the Punta Uva Live Butterfly Gardens, where thousands of colorful butterflies are bred. Puerto Viejo real estate offers everything you could want in a second home: beautiful scenery, access to attractions, an ideal climate, low cost of living, and more. Combine these attractions with fine dining, shopping and access to fantastic hiking and biking trails through the rain forest, and Puerto Viejo becomes a Costa Rican city that's hard to beat.

San Juan del Norte is in the Caribbean delta area, and the nearby San Juan River outlines the border between Costa Rica and Nicaragua. San Juan del Norte is usually accessed by boat, and travelers can enjoy the forest scenery as they motor up the river. Nearby are several reserves, home to different species such as jaguars, monkeys, reptiles, birds and more. The big draw for this area is fishing, fishing and more fishing. The top draws include tarpon, snook, rainbow bass, machaca, mojara and gar, plus a variety of other saltwater fish. Boats can be chartered to take parties out into waters teeming with some of the best sports fishing around.

If you like to swim, try the Blue Lagoon, where calm waters invite you to cool off from the warm and humid climate. Excursions into the preserves can easily be arranged from the bustling city of San Juan del Norte. The city itself features interesting architecturally significant buildings, shops, restaurants and an abundance of other amenities. This jungle hamlet offers exceptional San Juan del Norte real estate opportunities, so consult an experienced Realtor for more details on access to this amazing region of Costa Rica real estate.

Whether you are seeking Costa Rica real estate as an investment property or simply a vacation home, now is the perfect time to get in on the action. Property including Limon real estate, Puerto Viejo real estate and San Juan del Norte real estate have proven to be a solid investment with great gains expected in the near future. You can experience the best of the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica by contacting a Realtor who is experienced in Costa Rica real estate.

For more information about purchasing Costa Rica real estate, contact the experienced Costa Rica Realtors at info@crreo.com.