Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls boast nature trails, streams, and views of the tallest waterfall in Costa Rica. After exploring orchid gardens and watching toucans flying overhead, you can enjoy an al fresco meal on the patio.
The Basics
The 50-acre (20-hectare) gardens are located near the entrance of Carara National Park, making it a pleasant stop on your way to or from a jungle adventure. You can also visit Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls as part of a tour, which typically departs from Jaco and explore the region’s forests and waterfalls. You can immerse yourself in nature on a hiking and swimming excursion, or see more of the region on a fast-paced ATV tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls are a must-see for waterfall chasers and nature lovers.
Paved pathways make the gardens wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Dinner reservations are required to eat at the onsite restaurant.
You can pick up souvenirs at the garden gift shop.
How to Get There
Located 30 minutes’ drive from Jaco, and just 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the entrance of the Carara National Park, the gardens can be reached in a car by following Route 34 north from Jaco and taking a right on Route 320. To simplify your trip, book a tour that includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The private gardens are open from 8am–5pm daily. To see the waterfalls at their most impressive, visit during Costa Rica’s rainy season (May–October). The garden’s restaurant is ideally positioned for sunset views of the Pacific Ocean; dining reservations are required and start at 4:30pm.
Nature Photography at Pura Vida Gardens and Waterfalls
The waterfalls, ocean views, birdlife, and gardens offer nature photography opportunities for everyone from landscape photographers to those who like to take close-up photos of flowers. Bring a telephoto lens to zoom in on the distant waterfall or the shy birds hiding in the canopy overhead. Slow down to capture the graceful descent of one of the closer cascades. Bring a macro lens to catch the fine details of the plants and flowers.
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