Bahía Drake

Introducing Bahía Drake

Nestled into the western side of the Península de Osa, between the thick jungle of Parque Nacional Corcovado and the crystalline waters of Bahía Drake, this little settlement is actually composed of two tiny towns: Agujitas, spread out along the southern shore of the bay; and Drake, a few kilometers to the north.

The bay is named for Sir Francis Drake himself, who visited this area in March 1579, during his circumnavigation in the Golden Hind. History has it that he stopped on the nearby Isla del Caño, but locals speculate that he probably landed here as well. A monument at Punta Agujitas (on the grounds of the Drake Bay Wilderness Resort) states as much.

Agujitas is a friendly community of about 300 residents, whose ramshackle houses are clustered around a school and a clinic at the mouth of the Río Agujitas. Typically, the centre of village life is the pulpería (corner grocery store), where you’ll find a public phone and the town’s main boat dock. Drake is the site of the airstrip, and a few places to stay.

It’s not easy to visit Bahía Drake on the cheap: only few budget options exist in Agujitas. Supplies, food and just about everything else are shipped in, a logistical fact that is reflected in local prices. Furthermore, the only way to get around is by boat or by foot; so if you are counting your colones, get ready to hoof it. Fortunately, walking is not only transportation, but also recreation, as sightings of macaws, monkeys and other wildlife are practically guaranteed.

Last updated: Mar 2, 2009