Pavones

General Information:

Location: The southern edge of the Golfo Dulce; 9 miles south of Zancudo

Weather: Rainy season runs from May – October

Temperature: Average daily temperature is 82° F

Altitude: Sea level

Read more about the South Pacific Tourism Region

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About:

The tranquil town of Pavones sits on the Golfo Dulce, located on Costa Rica’s south Pacific Coast. Known around the globe as having the longest left point break in the world, this remote village has been attracting dedicated surfers for years.

With a rocky coastline flanked by pristine jungle, Pavones and its neighboring community of Punta Banco have experienced relatively little development. They offer wide, palm-lined beaches with spectacular scenery and – more importantly – legendary surf. The village’s dirt roads, slow pace and remote location make Pavones an ideal getaway and magnetic alternative to the booming beach areas of Jaco and Tamarindo.

There is no doubt that this surf town waxes and wanes with the waves. Every available hammock and tiny cabin fills up when the swell comes in.  On a slow, south swell, the left point break has been recorded to last up to three minutes. Hawaiian-style tubes are ideal for seasoned surfers, while the smaller waves closer to shore are suited to beginners and boogie-boarders. The largest waves come during the rainy season, from April through October.

While many travelers flock to Pavones for the unbeatable surf and tranquility of the South Pacific, other outdoor activities such as sport fishing, kayaking, bird and wildlife watching, and horseback riding are also available. Dense rainforests and an abundance of wildlife create enjoyable hiking opportunities, either by the beach and up the Rio Claro or at the Tiskita Biological Reserve.

Although the town has an underlying party atmosphere, it also attracts a more mature crowd.  While Pavones does boast modern conveniences like telephones and Internet, as of yet there is no ATM – the closest bank is in Golfito.

Getting Around:

Because Pavones is so spread out, a rental car is the most convenient mode of local transport.  However, several hotels also rent bikes for meandering around town.  For less than $.50, the same bus that runs from Golfito to Pavones can be taken for the short distance between Rio Claro and Punta Banco.

There are no taxi companies in Pavones, but visitors will find pirate cabs (unverifiable, private drivers that do not work for any specific company) by the bus stop on the beach. Taxi: Tel. 8826-0800

Sample Taxi Fares:

Pavones to Punta Banco: $10
Pavones to Golfito: $60-70
Pavones to Zancudo: $40-50

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