How far is the beach from Bosque del Cabo (Costa Rica)? Is it easily accessable?
Thank You,
Gem

There are two trails from Bosque to the beach.

One leads to the Golfo Dulce side of the cape. My husband and I fell on this trail quite by accident on the afternoon that we arrived at the reserve.

We were surprised to learn that that trail was the longest and considered the most difficult one at the property. It takes about an hour and half each way and no matter which direction you head in, one half is uphill and the other half is, of course, downhill.

At dinner time, everyone talked about the strenuousness of this trail, but if you're in semi-decent shape and have ever done any kind of mountain hiking, I can't see how this trail should present any problems.

What makes it a little difficult is that you'll probably be doing it in near-100% humidity. Bring lots of water (at least 1 litre for two people, each way) and carry some extra sunscreen in your pack for when you get to the beach--you will have sweat off anything you put on by the time you get there.

Apparently, Bosque can send a truck to pick you up at the trail and drive you back.

This was a great trail for rainforest-watching. (In fact, as we learned, it's not actually a rainforest but a moist or humid forest of something like that.) I would recommend taking the guided forest walk with Phil BEFORE embarking on this trail, because you will then be able to identify all the things he points on his tour.

The other trail leads to a beach on the Pacific side of the cape. It should be a trek of less than 20 minutes each way. This one is fairly steep (there are steps) but is also easily doable for the average person.

Whichever beach you go to, pay attention to the tides. Much of the shore edge is made up of huge, jagged rocks and it seemed that much of the beach disappears under high tide. You wouldn't want to get knocked around by the waves there.

Enjoy!


The

Mona you're back already! Hope all went well with your trip .... I followed along as you made your plans - and look forward to reading about how it turned out!

We'll be spending the 1st week of July at Bosque del Cabo and I was wondering if you have any suggestions for things we need to bring. I noticed your great advice on the question of hiking boots, so they're back on the list again. We'll pack bug spray, anti-itch creams, flashlights, sunscreen, hats, binoculars ... all the basics I guess. Anything you wish you had brought along?? Our kids are 10 and 12, and we've reserved Casa Blanca, the 2 bedrm house. This will be our first trip to Costa Rica, so I've really been brainstorming on what to pack. We love to hike, especially when the destination is as wonderful as the ocean, so I was happy to read about the trails you took from Bosque. Thanks for any additional tips .... Katie

MonaManuel, I am surprised to hear that you thought the Gulfo Dulce trail was the hardest! Most people we have spoken to think the Pacific is because of its steepness. I am impressed with your hiking!

The Gulfo Dulce is the longest trail I believe but is well marked as are all the trails. It does help to get that ride back! They will even pack you a picnic lunch if you want to go down to the beach for the day. There is a kayaking company down there on the beach also that you can spend some time with.

You can see Casa Bambu down in that area after you get to the beach also. It is a great little rental house.

The Zapatero trail that Philip takes you out on is very nice and he is amazing in his knowledge. Hope they find someone as good after he leaves.

Even though we are mostly in a rental home in the mountains while down there, this is one of our favorite places to "vacation" while there.

KatHep,
We have often thought we'd like to rent in the mountains one day. Where is your rental property? Do you stay for a few months each year?