San Mateo City. At 254 meters above sea level, San Mateo is a picturesque city that maintains a rural-community feel. It stands out in Costa Rican history as a rest stop for Mora y Cañas' troops on their way to do battle with William Walker, as well as a “napping point” for hundreds of oxcarts loaded with coffee on the trip to Puntarenas and then packed with goods for the return to San José. It was in these lands that gold was first found in Costa Rica.Today San Mateo is a stop for tourists on the way to Garabito and Aguirre beaches; fruit stands have been set up on part of the route, as well as an adventure tourism outfit offering canopy tours.

Jacó . At just seven meters above sea level, the city of Jacó has a large beach for enjoying sea and sun. Its proximity to San José makes it one of the most visited beaches in the country by both Costa Ricans and foreigners. Jacó offers one of the most extensive selections of tourist services in Costa Rica. Shaped in a pleasant curve, its four-kilometer-long beach is bordered by hills at either end. Swimming with caution, due to strong currents, and surfing are the favorite activities here.

The Paseo de los Turistas. in Puntarenas, gives you an insight into local traditions and is also a great place to practice sports and go souvenir shopping.

The Pacific Marine Park. located in the old Puntarenas railroad station, exhibits underwater life in the region.

The Carnivals in Puntarenas. held the last week of February, is the biggest party in the Pacific coast.