Ojochal

About halfway between Dominical and Palmar, and about 15 km south of Uvita, is a little town - Ojochal. The road follows the river inland and is dotted by the homes of Ticos, restaurants, businesses, grocery store, school, soccer field and hotels. The town has been around for a long time, but in the past 15 years has attracted many Canadians (largely from Toronto and Quebec City), Parisians, Germans and the obligatory Americans.

The town is a curious mix of Ticos and expats living quite harmoniously.

We meet travellers in Costa Rica who ask - is there anything to eat besides rice and beans?  You know they are on a guided tour.  As foodies, we couldn't possibly survive without good and interesting food.  While Costa Rica has lots of that generally, Ojochal is a little treasure trove.  Indonesian, Asian Fusion, Argentinean Steak, Indian, Casados, fresh fish, ceviche, Italian, Pizza, European baked goods, fresh goat cheese - all in this little town tucked along the river.

The supermercado - Jucaloa - offers a full range of food, household products, clothes, wine and beer - everything you need.

Along this stretch of the coast, the mountains meet the ocean creating little beaches accessed down winding roads.  Well marked on the highway, these little bits of paradise are welcome surprises.  There are 7 beaches each with a unique character - Tortuga, Ventanas and Pinuellas are our favourites.

You can find out more at http://www.ojochal.com/