Services and Facilities in Puerto Viejo

Services:

Cell Phone
Cell phone service is average in Puerto Viejo – on the beach, reception is very strong, but even half a block away from the sand, reception is reduced to little or none.

Public Phones
Puerto Viejo, Playa Negra and Cocles all have public phones lining their main, beachfront road. Note that they are operated by phone card, not coins; purchase a phone card in any pharmacy or grocery store in Costa Rica.

Internet
Most mid-range and upscale hotels, in addition to several budget options, offer free Internet or WiFi access. There are many Internet cafes around town that charge $1-$2 per hour.

Post Office
Located next to the Licorera Mane. It offers both national and international mail services. Open Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Facilities:

Banks
Puerto Viejo’s only bank, Banco de Costa Rica, is located near the small bridge to Playa Negra (Black Beach). This location is also home to the only ATM in Costa Rica – be warned that it accepts only those debit cards that belong to the Visa or Plus networks.

Gas Station
There is no gas station in Puerto Viejo. The closest place to fill up is a few miles north, near the turnoff to Bribri.

Police Station
Located in downtown Puerto Viejo, by the waterfront. (Emergencies: 911; Non-emergencies: 2750-0230)

Medical Facilities
There is an emergency medical services office downtown, just a few steps from the Banco de Costa Rica. For minor accidents and general maladies, all pharmacies in Costa Rica are required to employ an in-house pharmacist/doctor, who is able to treat minor problems and prescribe certain medications.

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