Things to do in Northern Golfo Dulce
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Refugio Nacional de Fauna Silvestre Golfito
The small, 28-sq-km reserve encompasses most of the steep hills surrounding Golfito, though it's poorly publicized and easy to miss. It was originally created to protect the town’s watershed, though it also protects a number of rare and interesting plant species. It is home to several cycads, which are ‘living fossils,’ and are regarded as the most primitive of plants. The reserve also attracts a variety of tropical birds, four species of monkey and several small mammals.
There are no facilities for visitors, save a gravel access road and a few poorly maintained trails, but for those who don't have the time or ability to hike in Corcovado, it provides a quick…
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Playa Cacao
Just a hop, skip and a jump across the bay, this small beach offers a prime view of Golfito stretched out along the coast, with the rainforest as a backdrop. If you’re stuck in Golfito for the day, Playa Cacao is perhaps the most appealing spot from which to enjoy the old port. To reach the beach, catch a water taxi from Golfito for around US$12 per person. You can also get to Playa Cacao by walking or driving about 6km along a dirt road west and then south from the airport – a 4WD is recommended.
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Restaurante Buenos Días
Rare is the visitor who passes through Golfito without stopping at this cheerful spot opposite the Muellecito. Brightly colored booths, bilingual menus and super-convenient location ensure a constant stream of guests – whether for an early breakfast, a typical Tico casado or a good old-fashioned burger.
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Rancho Grande
About 3km south of Golfito, this rustic, thatched-roof place serves country-style Tico food cooked over a wood stove. Margarita, the Tica owner, is famous for her patacones (fried plantain chips). Her hours are erratic, so stop in during the day to let her know you're coming for dinner.
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Cataratas y Senderos Avellán
This Tico family-run reserve and adventure camp is an excellent option for adventurers who like a little guidance. Guided hikes and horseback-riding tours (prices vary) explore the extensive, rainforest-covered grounds, including three impressive waterfalls. Camping and basic cabins and meals are also available.
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Restaurant Hai Pin
When you tire of gallo pinto, you can change it up with some Chinese food. This popular open-air restaurant enjoys views of the main drag, which certainly offers up some interesting people-watching given the nature of the town.
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8° Latitude
Northwest of the soccer field, this popular expat bar is frequented by Americans who divide their time between sportfishing and boozy gossip. Its laid-back and friendly atmosphere makes it the perfect place to tipple a few and listen to fish tales.
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C-Tales
Operating out of Las Gaviotas Hotel, this company offers a two-day package per person from US$2000.
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Banana Bay Marina
Charters can be arranged, and a full day of all-inclusive fishing starts at around US$750.
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King & Bartlett
This slick new operation offers all-inclusive three-day fishing packages starting at around US$1800.
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Port Captain
Opposite the large Muelle de Golfito (where yachters check in when arriving).
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Radio Towers (Las Torres)
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Casa Roland Marina Restaurant
The main restaurant at the Casa Roland Marina Resort isn’t particularly inventive, but it does justice to the classics. Steaks and seafood are an excellent bet, as are pizzas, pastas and lighter salads.
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