When planning your trip, understanding the do’s and don’ts of drinking in Costa Rica can make the difference between a smooth, enjoyable night out and an unexpected complication. From sipping a cold Imperial at sunset to tasting Cacique Guaro in a lively cantina, drinking here is a cultural experience as much as it is a pastime.
Let’s dive into the essentials every traveler should know about drinking in Costa Rica.
The Legal Drinking Age in Costa Rica
The minimum legal drinking age in Costa Rica is 18 years old. Bars, restaurants, and liquor stores are required to check IDs. Carry your passport or a copy of it when going out, especially if you look close to that age.
Do’s When Drinking in Costa Rica
Now, let’s dive into what brought us here. These are some things you may do in Costa Rica when drinking:
- Respect local customs: Drinking is social and relaxed, not rushed.
- Stay hydrated: Tropical heat plus alcohol means you’ll need extra water.
- Try local favorites:
- Imperial – “the beer of Costa Rica.”
- Pilsen – a crisp lager, widely loved.
- Cacique Guaro – the national sugarcane spirit, often mixed in shots like the famous chiliguaro.
- Craft beers – available in San José and beach towns, from pale ales to IPAs.
- Imperial – “the beer of Costa Rica.”
- Tip fairly: A 10% service charge is included, but adding more for good service is appreciated.
- Use local currency: Some bars take dollars, but colones are preferred.
- Secure your belongings: Leave your passport in your hotel safe and carry a copy.
Don’ts When Drinking in Costa Rica
However, not everything is permitted, so please abide by the following guidelines to keep both you and others safe when drinking in Costa Rica:
- Don’t drink and drive: laws are strict, fines are high, and enforcement is real.
- Don’t drink in public spaces: beaches, parks, and sidewalks are off-limits.
- Don’t leave drinks unattended.
- Don’t underestimate guaro or house cocktails – they can be stronger than you expect.
- Don’t supply alcohol to minors – anyone under 18.
- Don’t assume all bars are safe – stick with reputable venues and licensed premises.
Where to Enjoy a Drink in Costa Rica
Nights out are just one part of the fun. If you’d like to balance it with some daytime adventure, La Fortuna has the perfect combo: explore the Hanging Bridges, hike to the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, and finish the day with a guided walk around the majestic Arenal Volcano—complete with a local lunch.
La Fortuna
- La Parrilla de María Bonita: Known for its casual atmosphere and good cocktails.
- La Fortuna Pub: A lively local spot for beers and music.
- Lava Lounge Bar & Grill: Popular with travelers, with a mix of drinks and international food.
While the nightlife is a great way to soak up local culture, don’t miss what happens under the sun. Each of these destinations also has amazing tours worth adding to your trip. One favorite near Santa Teresa is the Montezuma Waterfall Hike—an unforgettable adventure through lush forest trails leading to three of the area’s most beautiful waterfalls.
Santa Teresa
- Banana Beach Club: A beachfront favorite for cocktails at sunset.
- Kika: Known for its live music nights and vibrant local scene.
- Rocamar: Chill beachfront bar, ideal for a relaxed vibe.
A good drink goes perfectly with a good adventure. After visiting these bars, you can spend your days exploring more of Costa Rica—like our Caribbean Side Escape, a journey through Arenal, Tortuguero, and the southern Caribbean coast. It’s the perfect mix of rainforest, wildlife, and beach culture.
Puerto Viejo & Manzanillo (Caribbean Coast)
- Salsa Brava Rasta Bar: Famous for reggae nights and beachfront atmosphere.
- Johnny’s Place: One of the oldest and most popular spots for dancing and mingling.
- Cool & Calm Café (Manzanillo): Great for a laid-back evening with local flavor
These venues give you a safe, authentic taste of Costa Rica’s nightlife while keeping you connected to the pura vida vibe.
Extra Tips for Drinking in Costa Rica
We already learned about the do’s and don’ts. Now, we consider it helpful to talk about some additional tips you can implement when drinking in Costa Rica.
- Check alcohol sales on holidays—restrictions may apply.
- Always choose official taxis or rideshares after a night out.
- Ask locals for recommendations—they know the hidden gems.
- Explore beyond beer and guaro—fresh tropical cocktails are worth it.
Enjoy Your Time in Costa Rica Responsibly!
Costa Rica is a country of vibrant culture and warm hospitality. Knowing the basics of drinking in Costa Rica ensures your evenings are as memorable as your adventures in the rainforest or on the beach.
For travelers who want to blend authentic nightlife with unique cultural and adventure experiences, Find My Costa Rica can design a trip where every detail is taken care of—so you can simply relax and enjoy.
Let us help you plan your Costa Rican adventure—day and night.
