Things to Know

BANKING
Banks are open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and do not close for lunch.

BUSINESS HOURS
Government offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Commercial offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Stores and other businesses from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

CHURCHES
Like all Latin American Countries, Puntarenas is Predominantly Catholic, but other denominations are found throughout the city.

CLIMATE
Puntarenas is tropical city and experiences only two seasons: wet and dry. The dry season is generally between late December and April, and the wet season last the rest of the year.

CLOTHING
Pack light for your visit. Will be wise to pack a sweeter if you are going to visit some of the highland areas otherwise loose fitting shirts and pants a hat and sunglasses are recommended see on our inserts for more information about what to bring.

COMMUNICATIONS
Direct dial, facsimile, internet, collect, credit cards services are available. Bilingual operator assistance international call dial 116, local information dial 113, long distance information dial 124.

CREDIT CARDS & TRAVELERS CHECKS
Most major credit cards are accepted throughout the city, but some smaller will only accept local currency. Traveler´s can be easily cashed.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE
The official currency is the Colon and is easier to use than dollars US dollars are accepted throughout the city currency can be exchanged at banks and hotels. The currency rate fluctuate daily.

HEALTHY BEACHES
The Blue Flag program is a project created by the Costa Rica Government to assure the control and regulate pollution among the beaches. Our beach compliance with the main requirements established by the commission, our visitors will enjoy excellent services, water control, pollution control first aid services, baywatch, as well as security beyond the shore line perimeter.

HOSPITALS
Health care n Puntarenas is very good and sanitary standards and high. Private clinics are found throughout the city.

LANGUAGE
Spanish is the official language. English is spoken in most of the tourist places.

TAXES
There is a 13% sales tax at restaurants and most services industries.

TIPPING
A 10% tip will be added to your bill in restaurants and bars.

TRANSPORTATION

From/To San Jose
Every hour on the hour.

From/To Quepos
5 am / 2:30 pm / 11 am / 4:30 pm

From/To Santa Elena
1:15 pm / 2:15 pm

From/To Liberia
5:30 am / 7 am / 8:30 am / 9:30 am / 11 am / 12:20 pm / 3 pm

From/To Miramar
Every hour on the hour.

Ferry From/To Paquera
4 am / 6 am / 8 am / 10 am / 12 pm / 2 pm / 4 pm / 6 pm / 8 pm / 9:30 pm

From/To Paquera/Pochote/Tambor/Cobano/Montezuma/Mal País
5:30 am / 6 am / 7:45 am / 8 am / 9:30 am / 10 am / 11:30 am / 11:45 am / 1:30 pm / 2 pm / 3:30 pm / 4 pm / 5:15 pm /7:30 pm

TOUR OPERATORS
CoopePuerto: 663-0053
Toucan Tours: 661-3273
Vesa Tour: 663-0808
Transportes Miramar: 2480045 / 639-9802
Swiss Travel Services: 282-4896

WATER
The water is safe to drink, however bottled water is always recommended.