Costa Rica Nightlife

While your days may be packed full of things to do and places to see, the nightlife in Costa Rica is the icing on the cake of your vacation, so make sure to save room. Don't be fooled by the quiet streets of the city once the sun sets, the real action starts after 9pm and often lasts 'til the wee hours. True to their latin roots, Ticos love to dance, and you'll never be lonely if there is live music to move to or a DJ spinning good tunes. Find the pulse of the capital of San Jose at El Pueblo, a historic hub of restaurants, bars, and discos that bring together a diverse group of revelers from all walks of life. If searching out more obscure spots to spend an evening is your thing, head to El Observatorio for cocktails and schmoozing, or take part in the trendy set's action over at El Cuartel de la Boca del Monte, which is continually evolving into one of the country's hottest nightlife locales. In Puerto Viejo, the Caribbean's party town, Jhonny's Place starts rocking, or swaying, after 11, when reggaeton and revelry come together under one roof by the sea. For those who prefer a cultured evening of art and music, head to the National Theater for a live performance or Cafe Expresivo for some creative cocktails. When all else is closed or you're too tired to keep moving, make sure not to skip past a traditional Costa Rican favorite, Chelles, where you can soak up the alcohol and refuel for another round with a Cuban sandwich while watching locals belly up to the charming little bar. Whoever says Costa Rica doesn't know how to party just hasn't stayed up late enough.