Beyond its beautiful backdrop, Costa Rica’s coastline has established itself as a thriving hub for tourism and investment ever since the first adventurous backpackers reached the shores in the late 1970s. With different degrees of surfing and vacation amenities, eventually marinas became a strategic development. The marinas that stretch along the Pacific coast have become important pillars for each of this community’s economic and tourism sector, ranging from luxurious yacht docks to vibrant commercial areas, condominiums, and high-end residences. Costa Rica’s marinas are transforming the coastal landscape by welcoming the most demanding of anglers, and also creating hubs for local visitation.
One of the standout examples is Marina Papagayo. This marina opened in 2009 and quickly became a cornerstone of the Peninsula Papagayo resort community. Its prime location in a naturally protected harbor at Bahia Culebra makes it an ideal spot for both luxury yachts and sport-fishing vessels. With its proximity to the Guanacaste International Airport, it offers unparalleled convenience for visitors, enhancing its appeal as a premier destination. The marina’s robust infrastructure, including 180 slips and plans for expansion, underscores its role as a key player in the region.
Moving down the coast, Marina Flamingo is another beacon of development, officially reopening in 2023 after years of dormancy. Originally the first marina in Costa Rica, its revival has breathed new life into the booming Flamingo area. The marina now features 90 slips, with plans for significant expansion, and offers a comprehensive range of amenities, including villas, restaurants, and even a medical clinic.
Los Sueños Resort and Marina in Herradura Bay stands out as one of the most lavish, world-class destinations for anglers and tourists alike. Since its completion in 2003, Los Sueños has drawn visitors with its exceptional fishing opportunities, especially during the annual Los Sueños Signature Triple Crown tournament series. This marina has played a crucial role in solidifying Costa Rica’s reputation as a top sport-fishing destination, contributing to the local economy and offering a high standard of living for residents and visitors.
Marina Pez Vela, located in the charming seaside town of Quepos near Manuel Antonio National Park, is perhaps the premier destination of its kind. With 195 slips, state-of-the-art facilities, and a unique cofferdam system to tame the Pacific’s swells, it stands as one of the top sport-fishing marinas in Central America. From the essential resources of polished fuel, in-slip pump-out services, to the charming amenities of a wide array of international restaurants, and retail options within its vibrant marina village, this has become a regional highlight. It’s also renowned for hosting prestigious fishing tournaments like the Offshore World Championship and Pelagic Rockstar, cementing its name as a dynamic center of tourism and communal activity.
In the southern part of the country, Marina Bahia Golfito offers a unique blend of natural beauty and strategic importance. Surrounded by lush rainforest and national parks, this marina provides a safe haven for vessels and serves as a gateway to Panama
Costa Rica’s marinas are more than just docking points for yachts, they are epicenters for tourism and community development, driving economic growth, attracting international visitors, and creating opportunities for sustainable development along the country’s stunning coastline. As these projects continue to evolve, they will undoubtedly play an even greater role in shaping the future of Costa Rica’s coastal regions.