Drake Bay

Tucked away on the northern coast of the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay (Bahía Drake) is a must-see destination for any traveler seeking adventure and pristine nature during their trip to Costa Rica.

Located near some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth, the peaceful village of Drake has grown over the decades around ecotourism and conservation. Today, its calm bay serves as the main gateway to explore Isla del Caño Biological Reserve, the Térraba-Sierpe wetlands, and the world-famous Corcovado National Park.

🏡 A village in harmony with Nature

Tourism in Drake Bay has developed in close connection with the environment and local traditions. The village restaurants mainly serve traditional Costa Rican cuisine, often featuring freshly caught fish and seafood.

The accommodation options are diverse and accessible for all budgets, from simple local guesthouses to luxurious ocean-view bungalows surrounded by lush greenery.

⚠️ Important tip: 

there are no ATMs in Drake Bay, so make sure to bring enough cash before arriving.

🚤 How to get to Drake Bay

Located in one of the wettest regions of Costa Rica, access to Drake Bay can be an adventure in itself. The most scenic route is by boat from the town of Sierpe, navigating through mangrove channels. You can also arrive by domestic flight with Sansa Airlines.

During the dry season (January to April), it’s possible to reach Drake Bay via the Rincón dirt road, a 20 km trail crossing several rivers, suitable only for 4x4 vehicles and adventurous spirits!

🐾 Corcovado National Park

With no fewer than 6,000 species of insects, 500 species of trees, 367 species of birds, 140 mammals, 117 amphibians and reptiles, and 40 freshwater fish, this vast protected area shelters around 2.5% of the planet’s biodiversity, earning it worldwide recognition.

Accessible by boat from Drake Bay, the park’s San Pedrillo and Sirena sectors offer incredible opportunities to explore primary rainforest, encounter endemic wildlife, and observe endangered species such as the Baird’s tapir.

🐬 Isla del Caño: a marine paradise

Located 16 km off the Osa Peninsula, Isla del Caño Biological Reserve protects a 5,800-hectare marine area, a vital corridor for humpback whales and resident dolphins.

The island hosts some of the largest coral reefs along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.

🥾 Hiking around Drake Bay

The surroundings of Drake Bay offer many options for hiking and wildlife observation. Some trails can be explored without a guide, such as those near the Golfo Dulce Forest Reserve or the Punta Río Claro Wildlife Refuge.

From the bay, a coastal trail of about 5 km leads to San Josecito Beach, a stunning stretch of sand and jungle where travelers can swim, picnic, or simply enjoy the tropical scenery.