Pura Osa
Key facts
- Where: southern tip of the Osa Peninsula, 17 km south of Puerto Jiménez on the road to Carate.
- Getting there: 30–40 min by 4x4 from Puerto Jiménez, or the colectivo truck to Carate; Puerto Jiménez has daily domestic flights.
- Best for: surfers, wildlife lovers and travelers who want the jungle right on the beach.
- Bring: cash, repellent, a headlamp and patience: power and signal are limited.
Things to do in Matapalo
Surf three right-hand breaks
Matapalo is famous among surfers for three right-hand breaks within walking distance: Pan Dulce, long and forgiving, with rides of up to 300 meters on good days; Backwash, a faster wave in front of the forest; and the Matapalo point, the most powerful. Swell is most consistent from April to October.
Wildlife from your doorstep
The forest here connects with Corcovado, so all four of Costa Rica’s monkey species, scarlet macaws, toucans, coatis and poison dart frogs are often seen right around the lodges. Dawn walks along the road are as rewarding as a park visit.
King Louis waterfall
A tall waterfall that drops close to the sea near Playa Matapalo, reached by a short but steep and slippery scramble from the end of the beach road. Go with a local guide or ask at your lodge for directions, and never at high tide.
Beaches and tide pools
Playa Matapalo, Backwash and Pan Dulce are wild, rocky beaches with driftwood and tide pools at low tide. Currents can be strong, so swim only on calm days and away from the surf breaks.
Corcovado from the La Leona side
Matapalo is a good base for the La Leona entrance of Corcovado, about an hour away by car past Carate. A certified guide is required to enter the park.
Corcovado guide →When to go
December to April is dry and easier on the roads. April to October brings the best surf. September to November are the wettest months, when some lodges close.
Where to stay in Matapalo
Lodging here means eco-lodges in the forest, surf camps and a few vacation rentals, most off-grid and with meals included. Book ahead in the dry season. Compare bases in Osa →
Live map: places to stay in Matapalo
Hotels, cabins, lodges and vacation rentals in and around Matapalo, with current prices. Move the map or set your dates to compare.
See the full list of places to stay in Matapalo →
Frequently asked questions
Where is Cabo Matapalo?
At the southern tip of the Osa Peninsula, where the Golfo Dulce meets the open Pacific, about 17 km (30–40 minutes) south of Puerto Jiménez on the gravel road to Carate.
Do I need a 4x4 to reach Matapalo?
Yes, a 4x4 is strongly recommended, especially in the green season, when the gravel road and side roads to the beaches get muddy. The colectivo truck to Carate also passes Matapalo twice a day.
Is Matapalo good for beginner surfers?
Pan Dulce is the gentlest of the three breaks and good for learning on smaller days. Backwash and the Matapalo point are for intermediate and advanced surfers. Watch for rocks and reef at low tide.
Are there shops or ATMs in Matapalo?
No. There is no town center, store or ATM; most lodges are off-grid and include meals. Bring cash and supplies from Puerto Jiménez.
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