The Puerto Limón cruise terminal welcomes you with two main piers and modern facilities.
For other Western Caribbean Cruise destinations check out our Western Caribbean Cruise Ship Port Guide page.
You can easily reach the rainforest, watch wildlife at Tortuguero National Park, or relax at Playa Bonita beach.
The port area offers you essential services like souvenir shops, local cafes and currency exchange points.
You’ll experience the vibrant Afro-Costa Rican culture as you explore by taxi, shuttle or walking tour.
The port connects you directly to Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast and its natural attractions.
Map of Puerto Limón, Costa Rica Cruise Ship Port
Location and Port Facilities
Puerto Limón’s cruise terminal sits on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast as one of the country’s major seaports. You’ll dock at one of two main piers built for large cruise ships, with facilities that process thousands of visitors daily. The terminal offers you basic services:
- Air-conditioned waiting spaces
- Clean restrooms
- Tourist information counters
You’ll spot a small port village right outside the terminal where you can:
- Browse souvenir shops
- Visit local cafes
- Exchange your money
Tour guides and excursion operators stand ready by the terminal exit to help you discover local attractions. The port’s modern layout makes it easy for you to move from your ship to the village or join guided tours.
Popular Shore Excursions and Activities
Shore Activities in Puerto Limón
You can choose from several exciting activities when your cruise ship docks in Puerto Limón:
Rainforest Adventures:
- You can zip-line through the forest canopy
- You can spot tropical birds in their natural habitat
- You can trek guided nature trails
Wildlife Watching:
- You can explore Tortuguero National Park’s waterways
- You can observe sloths and monkeys in the wild
- You can photograph native toucans
Local Experiences:
- You can tour a working banana plantation
- You can learn about Costa Rica’s banana industry
- You can visit the Caribbean marketplace
- You can explore the historic city centre
Beach Activities:
- You can swim at Playa Bonita
- You can sunbathe on white sandy shores
- You can enjoy the crystal-clear Caribbean waters
Each activity offers you a unique way to experience Costa Rica’s natural beauty and culture during your port stop.
Transportation and Getting Around
Getting Around Puerto Limón
You can easily explore Puerto Limón with these transport options:
Licensed Taxis
- Red vehicles with yellow triangles
- Set rates for common routes
- Always agree on fares before you travel
Local Buses
- Connect all main attractions
- Offer the cheapest travel option
- Run on regular schedules
Cruise Line Shuttles
- Book directly through your ship
- Provide door-to-door service
- Include English-speaking drivers
Walking Routes
- Direct paths from cruise terminal to town centre
- Well-marked pedestrian areas
- Suitable for short distances
Rental Cars
- Available from agencies near the port
- Require valid driving licence
- Give you complete travel freedom
Quick Tips:
- Carry small notes for buses and taxis
- Keep your ship’s schedule in mind
- Choose licensed transport only
- Ask your cruise desk about current rates
See what’s on offer from the Port of Harvest Caye, Belize for a different Western Caribbean Cruise destination.
Local Culture and Cuisine
You’ll discover a unique Caribbean culture in Puerto Limón that blends Afro-Costa Rican traditions with local celebrations and food.
The local dishes showcase Caribbean flavours. You can try coconut-milk rice and beans, seafood stew (rondon), and spiced meat patties. You’ll find fresh tropical fruits at the markets, and street vendors serve refreshing coconut water and crispy plantain chips.
The annual Carnaval brings the city to life. You can dance to calypso music, join street parades and mingle with locals. The mix of indigenous, African and Spanish influences makes Puerto Limón distinct from other Costa Rican cities.
Best Time to Visit and Weather Guide
When to Visit Puerto Limón: Weather Guide
You’ll find the best experience in Puerto Limón by matching your visit to the right season:
Dry Season (December-April):
- Clear skies and sunshine daily
- Perfect for outdoor activities
- Peak tourist season with busier ports
Wet Season (May-November):
- Regular afternoon showers
- Fewer tourists and lower prices
- Lush, green landscapes
Monthly Highlights:
- October: Join the vibrant Carnival celebrations
- September: Experience warmest temperatures
- February-March: Spot local wildlife at its most active
The tropical climate splits neatly into these two main seasons, making it simple to plan your cruise. Choose the dry season for reliable sunshine, or embrace the quieter wet season for a more laid-back visit.
Weather Tips:
- Pack lightweight, breathable clothing year-round
- Bring a waterproof jacket during wet season
- Schedule morning activities in wet season to avoid afternoon rain
Shopping and Local Markets
Explore Puerto Limón’s markets and shops for a true local shopping experience. You’ll discover the Central Market packed with traders offering tropical fruits, spices and local crafts. Visit the Black Star Line building to buy authentic Caribbean artworks and cultural items.
Browse Boulevard 2000‘s street stalls for Costa Rican clothes, jewellery and wooden crafts. You can buy the region’s famous coffee beans from local shops. Feel free to negotiate prices with vendors – it’s a normal part of shopping here. You can pay with US dollars or Costa Rican colones at most stalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Medical Facilities Are Available Near the Cruise Port?
You’ll find several medical facilities near the cruise port:
- A full-service hospital within a 10-minute drive
- Multiple walk-in medical clinics
- Local pharmacies throughout the area
All facilities have English-speaking medical staff to help you with any health needs.
Are There ATMS or Currency Exchange Services at the Port Terminal?
ATMs and currency exchange services are available at the cruise terminal. You can withdraw both US dollars and local colones directly on-site. These financial services make it simple to get cash for your shore activities.
Can You Drink Tap Water in Puerto Limón?
You shouldn’t drink tap water in Puerto Limón for safety reasons. Use bottled water throughout your stay to avoid any health risks. You can find bottled water easily at local shops and hotels across the city. Keep yourself hydrated with sealed, trusted water brands during your visit.
What Emergency Contact Numbers Should Cruise Passengers Keep Handy?
Essential emergency numbers for your cruise:
- 999/112 for general emergencies
- Your cruise line’s emergency hotline (save before departure)
- Local police: 117
- Your ship’s port agent number
- Your country’s nearest embassy or consulate
Keep these numbers stored in your phone and write them down on paper as backup. Your cruise line will provide their specific emergency contact during check-in. Remember to update these numbers for each new destination you visit.
Is Wifi Readily Available at the Cruise Terminal?
You can access free WiFi at the cruise terminal, though the connection tends to be slow. Your best options for reliable internet access include:
- Purchasing a local SIM card
- Using your ship’s onboard internet while docked
- Connecting to nearby cafes or restaurants with WiFi
The terminal’s WiFi works well for basic tasks like checking emails or messages, but you might struggle with video calls or streaming.
Thinking about something different? Check out the cruises leaving from Mahogany Bay, Isla Roatán, Honduras Cruise Ship Port.
