Discover the Untouched Beauty of Drake Bay, Costa Rica

By Silvanna Pacheco, October 9th, 2024

Drake Bay is located on the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica, a remote and enchanting destination with incredible biodiversity, pristine beaches, abundant rainforests, and exceptional wildlife encounters. Named after the legendary explorer Sir Francis Drake, it offers a unique experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

The main town is Agujitas, and it is home to Playa Colorada, the main beach in Drake Bay. The town offers a handful of restaurants and hotels. There are miles of coastline with rocky cliffs and sandy coves stretching south from Agujitas to the edge of Corcovado National Park. Along this 12 km stretch of beach, you’ll find some of Costa Rica’s most remote and spectacular eco-lodges.

You can reach Drake Bay by plane, car, or boat. The easiest and fastest way is to fly into the local Drake Bay Airport. The flight takes approximately 50 minutes from San Jose. 

By car, you’ll need to drive to Sierpe and then take a boat. A 4×4 is recommended during the rainy season, as the route is not fully paved. However, it’s manageable in dry conditions. By boat, there’s a public taxi boat operating twice daily between Sierpe and Drake Bay. The boat ride takes about an hour and offers stunning views of the Sierpe mangrove and the coastline.

As one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth, Corcovado National Park is a must-visit while in Drake Bay.  This park is designed to be explored on foot. You will encounter a variety of wildlife, including tapirs, monkeys, and a diverse array of bird species. The Sirena Station is a popular starting point for exploring the park’s wonders.

Another unforgettable adventure in the area is whale and dolphin watching (December-March and July-November). Dolphins are common residents in this area. You can also go snorkeling at Isla del Caño, a biological reserve renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and ancient stone spheres. For sunbathing and swimming, Playa San Josecito is ideal.

Consider booking a package to Drake Bay that includes accommodations, transportation, and activities. This is especially convenient for those seeking a more luxurious stay.