Puerto Limón

Costa Rica

Venture into the emerald rainforest to spot sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds while zip-lining through the cloud canopy.

Currency Costa Rican Colón (CRC)

Language Spanish

Time Zone CST (UTC-6)

Best Time to Visit Dec–Apr

Typical Duration 18-21 nights

Price Range $572–$16,334 per person

Port Type Port of Call

Tender Port Yes

Gateway to Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, offering access to lush rainforests, wildlife, and adventure activities like zip-lining and river tours.

Cruises that visit Puerto Limón

Build Your Day in Puerto Limón

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 5:00 PM

Usually about 9 hours ashore

My ship arrives around: Getting around:

Parque Nacional Cahuita Vibrant preserve with beaches & wildlife Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 11k

Parque Balvanero Vargas A pretty little park in Limon, Costa Rica. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 3k

Hot Rocks Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Grill · ★ 4.4 · 3k Closed · Opens 4 PM

El Patty Not my favorite type of food, but super laid back atmosphere and nice staff. Diner · ★ 4.4 · 2k

KOKi Beach Restaurant & Bar Lovely ambiance and some of the best food we’ve had in Puerto Viejo. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 2k Closed · Opens 5 PM

Restaurante Lidia's Place Dine-in·Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 2k Closed · Opens 12:30 PM

Playa Puerto Viejo Fun beach town, lots of things to do and party and eat! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 2k

Bread & Chocolate Amazing food and wonderful casual atmosphere. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 2k

Soda Kawe Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 2k

Santuario de Perezosos de Costa Rica Guided tours of a sloth rescue facility Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 1k

El Rincón del Amor If you want authentic Limón food this is the place. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 12 PM Thu

Taylor's Dine & Grill Very good local food and very nice service. Caribbean · ★ 4.4 · 1k

Sacred Heart Cathedral BEAUTIFUL open-air Catholic church in downtown Limon Costa Rica. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 0k

Restaurante Finca Santa Rosa Dine-in·Takeout·No-contact delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k

Restaurante Kalisi The rice and beans and chicken in cream sauce were wonderful. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 0k

El Patio Dine-in·Curbside pickup·No-contact delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 0k

Lizzie 1872 Dine-in·Takeout Caribbean · ★ 4.7 · 0k

Rompeolas Cieneguita Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 0k

Explore Limón The best part of Limón is that it's a sleepy little port. Tour operator · ★ 4.6 · 0k

Puerto Limón, Cruise Port Onsite services Cruise terminal · ★ 4 · 0k

Restaurante Cocori y hotel playa bonita Dine-in·Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 0k

Brisas de La Jungla Get there early and go on tour own or small group. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 0k

Playa Cieneguita Itis a cool recreational place in Limon Costa Rica Sports complex · ★ 4.6 · 0k

Sol Mar Cocktails & Grill Dine-in·Curbside pickup·Delivery Grill · ★ 4.2 · 0k

Los Baños Beach Club Dine-in·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 0k

Porto Limón Onsite services River port · ★ 4.4 · 0k

Poza Playa Bonita Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 0k

Restaurante La Finca Limón We really enjoyed our experience at La Finca Limon. Restaurant · ★ 5 · 0k

Jamaica Town Limon Costa Rica Tourist attraction · ★ 4 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Puerto Limón

About Puerto Limón

Puerto Limón stands as a vibrant Caribbean port of call, welcoming eight major cruise lines including MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, and Carnival Cruise Line. With 117 upcoming cruises and a strong presence of extended 21-night itineraries, this Costa Rican hub serves as a key stop on Caribbean routes connecting Miami, Colón, Cartagena, Ocho Rios, and Roatán Island. The port experiences peak activity during the winter months from November through March, making it an essential destination for cruise travelers seeking diverse Caribbean experiences.

Stepping ashore in Puerto Limón, passengers discover a lively port town with authentic Caribbean charm and direct access to Costa Rica's natural wonders. Whether you're interested in exploring the nearby rainforests and wildlife or simply enjoying the local culture and cuisine, this port offers memorable experiences that extend well beyond the ship. The combination of convenient cruise line service and the promise of adventure makes Puerto Limón an appealing addition to any Caribbean cruise itinerary.

Explore Limón's Vibrant Creole Culture

Discover the rich Afro-Caribbean heritage that defines Puerto Limón's identity through colorful colonial architecture and local museums. Wander the historic downtown district to experience authentic Creole traditions, vibrant street life, and the warmth of this unique cultural hub. This is where Caribbean history comes alive in Costa Rica's most culturally distinct port city.

Taste Fresh Caribbean Seafood

Savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine at waterfront restaurants serving the day's fresh catch—think succulent ceviche, grilled fish, and traditional rice and beans. Local eateries near the port offer genuine Creole flavors you won't find elsewhere, paired with tropical juices and refreshing beverages that capture the Caribbean spirit.

Hike Through Rainforest Canopy

Experience Costa Rica's renowned biodiversity at nearby Tortuguero National Park or local nature reserves accessible by short excursions. Spot sloths, tropical birds, and exotic wildlife while traversing lush trails through pristine rainforest. This is your gateway to one of Central America's most spectacular natural ecosystems.

Shop Local Markets & Crafts

Browse the bustling Central Market and nearby artisan shops for authentic Costa Rican souvenirs, handmade crafts, and tropical goods. Support local vendors selling everything from colorful textiles to wooden masks and fresh tropical fruits. The market atmosphere captures the authentic pulse of Caribbean port life.

Visit Historic Limón Cathedral

Step inside the striking Limón Cathedral, an iconic architectural landmark showcasing the city's spiritual heritage and colonial-era design. This beautiful structure stands as a testament to the port's historical significance and offers a peaceful respite while learning about local religious traditions and community pride.