Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Capital City

With a population of just 41,528, Puntarenas is a small coastal city that doesn't offer the amenities and infrastructure of a larger urban center. The port town's seafood-centric cuisine and surfable beaches attract tourists, but the aging port facilities and need to accommodate larger modern ships have led to the construction of a new port a few miles south. The hot and humid climate, ranging from 30-35°C year-round, can be a persistent headache. While Puntarenas may appeal to retirees or remote workers seeking a laid-back beachside lifestyle, its limited services and bureaucratic challenges make it a poor choice for families or those seeking an urban, cosmopolitan experience.