Cocles is the first community south of Puerto Viejo. The northern end of Cocles’ beautiful beach is very popular with surfers and world-famous for Costa Rica’s biggest and best wave – the “Salsa Brava” (“Angry Sauce”). It is also good for swimming and one of the few beaches in Costa Rica that is patrolled by lifeguards. There’s several spots where you can rent surfboards and for beginners it’s possible to take surfing lessons.
Playa Cocles has fine white sand and stretches all the way from Puerto Viejo to the next community Playa Chiquita. As soon as you leave it’s northern end you will be almost alone on the beach and can go swimming, surfing or relaxing on your own.
You will find a variety of businesses spread over the Cocles area like basic accommodation, vacation homes and luxury rentals, many bars, restaurants and cafes. There are also two supermarkets, a bike rental place, a french bakery and much more. If you’d like to see the local wildlife up close you can do so at the Jaguar Rescue Centre that is also located in Cocles.