What's Nearby
Discover Cocles, the Home of Villa Colibri
Villa Colibri is located in Cocles, on Costa Rica’s stunning Caribbean Coast and only a 5 minute drive to its popular neighbour, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. But, if you fancy experiencing the lifestyle like a local, a 15 minute cycle from Cocles to Puerto Viejo means taking in the area's vibrant culture amongst a stunning backdrop of coastal and jungle views. The best thing about cycling here is that you can stop along the way to enjoy the view, try any Jamaican street food that catches your eye or take a break at one of the many bars, restaurants and cafes you pass along the way.
The area is a vibrant mix of Arfo-Carribean, Indigenous and Latino culture, which means delicious food, reggae music, lively nightlife and ‘pura vida’ vibes. While relaxed, there’s plenty for tourists to do – tonnes of restaurants, bars, shops, and that’s not even mentioning the natural beauty of the area’s pristine, uncrowded, palm tree beaches and thriving jungle with its abundant flora and fauna.
What catches visitors by surprise the most is how pure and untouched the area is. What people may not know is that this area was largely inaccessible until the 70s, which allowed the traditional cultures, customs and way of life of the Indigenous communities and the Caribbean Railway Workers that arrived in the 1800s, to thrive and survive without external influence, unlike in the rest of Costa Rica.
At Villa Colibri, you’ll enjoy the adventure and serenity of living in the middle of the jungle, with all the creature comforts at your fingertips. A gentle, 5 minute stroll from the villa will take you to Cocles Beach, one of the area’s most pristine and serene beaches – and arguably one of the most beautiful in all of Costa Rica. It’s also a short walk to modern supermarkets, quality restaurants and local cuisine, the Jaguar Rescue Centre, Natural Ocean Rock Pools and much more! Let’s take a look:
Things to See & Do
Cocles Beach (Playa Cocles)
A short stroll from Villa Colibri is Cocles Beach, a one mile stretch of picturesque Caribbean Beach, framed with swaying palm trees. Considered the most spectacular beach on the Southern Caribbean Coast, Cocles Beach is known for its seasonal waves, making it the surfing heart of Puerto Viejo from Jan - March. Colored surfboards line the beach for rent and those that are keen can even book a surf lesson.
During the summer months when the waves are smaller, Cocles beach is a great spot for snorkeling or an offshore paddle to Isla Cocles. The beach is fully patrolled allowing for peace of mind for those that want to hop in for a swim. Laid back, yet surprisingly vibrant, along the beach you’ll find food carts, bars, restaurants and supermarkets.
Jaguar Rescue Centre
Both rehabilitation centre and sanctuary, the JRC provides a home for injured, sick and orphaned animals. In most cases, the goal is to rehabilitate the animals and re-introduce them into the wild, however, for some animals, this isn’t possible. In these cases, the animals are welcome to live the rest of their life in the peaceful sanctuary. As a paying guest, you are invited to tour the many animals living in the sanctuary, making it a great opportunity to see Costa Rica’s exotic wildlife up close and learn about the challenges they face. For animal lovers, the JRC is also a great place for volunteer work.
Cahuita National Park
Located approximately 30mins from Cocles, The Cahuita National Park is unique due to its shared management between the community and the government. It is home to the best preserved coral reef in the Costa Rican Caribbean, and boasts over 500 species of fish and a variety of marine wildlife. Within the park, guests can hike along the hiking trails and spot the abundant local wildlife that reside in the area. Along the hiking trails, visitors will encounter numerous white sand beaches where they can enjoy swimming, snorkeling (with a certified guide to protect the coral) and sunbathing. The park is also home to two shipwrecks which can be viewed within the park.
Places to Eat
Pecora Nera
A fine dining Italian restaurant with excellent service. This restaurant is high end with the laid back atmosphere and highlights seasonal local produce in their menu. As a treat, guests are invited to go into their cellar to choose their wine.
* Photo taken from Pecora Nera's Instagram
El Rincon Porteno
A beachside gem, El Rincon Porteno serves Argentinian food and cocktails with a view of the water. Patrons say food here is delicious, service is friendly and the menu highlights local produce. El Rincon Porteno is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
* Photo taken from El Rincon Porteno's Instagram.
La Nena
For a Caribbean food experience, try La Nena. It has a casual, local and relaxed vibe.
*Photo taken from La Nena's website
**There are lots more options a short drive away in Puerto Viejo, Playa Chiquita and Punta Uva
Cultural Experiences
Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve
This tour provides an amazing opportunity for tourists to meet with the Indigenous Kekoldi Bribri Community and share in their traditions, worldviews and way of life.
Guests are guided through the lush jungle of the Kekoldi Reserve, enjoying views of he Talamanca and Chiriqui Mountains. Depending on the season, the tour will also iunclude a stop at the world famous bird watchtower - one of the best places in the word to watch the raptors migration from North to South America. To finish off the hike, there is an opportunity to bath under a natural waterfall - a ceremonial ground for healing rituals, before engaging in a delicious traditional lunch.
Chocolate Forest Tour
Experience the Caribbean Coast's deep history with cacao on this Chocolate Forest Tour. The guided hike begins on the sustainable permaculture farm and takes guests through a sustainably restored Cacao forest, while learning about the history and science of chocolate. After, you'll enjoy a chocolate tasting experience featuring chocolate from local farms across Costa Rica. The tour concludes in the Chocolate Creation lab where visitors will be able to see, smell and taste the transformation from raw cocoa beans to fine tempered chocolate.