Puntarenas is Costa Rica's largest province, stretching along most of the country's Pacific coastline from the Gulf of Nicoya south to the Panama border. It serves as the gateway to surf towns, national parks such as Manuel Antonio and Corcovado, and island reserves reached by ferry from Puntarenas city.
Wellness travel tips
Get the most from your wellness experience.
The ocean itself is deeply healing — even beach walks and swimming have proven stress-reduction effects
The Nicoya Peninsula's Blue Zone community is welcoming — genuine cultural exchange is possible
Book yoga retreats 3–6 months ahead for dry season (Dec–Apr)
Pura Vida is not just a phrase — practising it genuinely (slowing down, unplugging) amplifies the healing effect
Natural healing teas made from local plants (lemongrass, guanábana leaf, ginger) are widely available
Sunrise beach yoga is possible anywhere — many hotels have yoga mats available on request
The absence of military and culture of peace is itself a wellness benefit — Costa Rica is one of the world's least stressed countries