Facts on Drake Bay

Pleasantly isolated on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Drake Bay lies on the northernmost point of the Osa Peninsula.

Claimed by many as one of the most beautiful regions in the world, the Osa Peninsula is where the Costa Rica of legend still exists. With eighty per cent, or 430,000 acres of the Osa Peninsula protected by Corcovado National Park and private forest reserves, the region stands as one of the last great tracks of unspoiled primary rainforest in Central America. To this day, Corcovado, along with the majority of the peninsula remains road-less. This, along with government and grass-root protectionism, has shielded the region from over-development.

Population

According to the 2006 census there are 350 homes and 1,030 inhabitants in the Drake Bay area. This area encompasses 12 districts including the villages of Progreso, Agujitas, Los Planes, Los Angeles, Caletas, and Rincon, as well as the area south to Corcovado.

Communications

While there are still no telephone lines in Drake Bay, there is cellular service. Calling in or out of Drake Bay can be incredibly frustrating at times, though.
If you must place a call, there is a public telephone at the beachfront general store in the village of Agujitas . Some resorts may allow guests to use their office phone, as well.
Resorts, along with many private homes, are equipped with marine band radios. This is the primary means of communication between the area resorts, boat captains, and guides.

Electricity

In 2004 the village of Agujitas was connected to the electrical grid. The electric lines stop at Jinetes de Osa Inn. All resorts south of Jinetes must generate their own electricity. Most rely on diesel-powered generators. Some of the smaller resorts have solar or hydro-powered systems.

Medical help

There is a doctor and small clinic in the village of Agujitas.

Money

US Dollars, Costa Rican Colones, and US Dollar Traveler's Checks are all generally accepted in Drake Bay. Many of the resorts do accept credit cards as well. You should inquire with your resort beforehand if you plan on paying by credit card. There are no banks or ATM's in Drake Bay.

Medical and Safety Concerns

Plants: Some palms in Drake Bay have needle sharp spines. Definitely look before you grab hold of any plants.

Insects: Travelers are often surprised by the relative lack of mosquitoes in Drake Bay. There usually is a small population boom in January, at the beginning of dry season. While they may be more numerous for a week or two, even then they really aren't much of a problem.
Sand flies can be problematic on the beach at the San Padrillo Ranger Station in Corcovado and, occasionally, at Cano Island. Repellant may come in handy .

Snakes: There are venomous snakes in Drake Bay. As most vipers lead fairly reclusive lives, you can count yourself lucky if you see one. The fer-de-lance is the most common pit viper on the Osa Peninsula. A watchful eye on the trail is the best way to prevent an unpleasant encounter.

Sun Exposure: Sunburn is certainly the most likely health risk you'll encounter. Sunscreen should be applied liberally before outings.

Ocean Safety: While Drake Bay does not have a reputation for rip tides, occasionally there are large waves. At high tide rocky outcrops can be hidden below the waters surface.

Entertainment

Along with the resort bars, there are a couple of rustic bars in the village. Dances are often held on the weekends .

Climate

Temperatures average in the mid to upper eighties year round . There are two seasons in Costa Rica...the dry and the rainy season. The dry season begins in December and typically runs to April. September and October are the rainiest months of the year. Many of the local resorts close for the month of October .

Getting Around

The dirt road that leads to Drake Bay ends at Corcovado Expeditions Tour Operators in Agujitas. South of Expeditions, foot trails and horse trails connect both private homes and resorts alike. The coastal foot trail that leads South towards Corcovado is very scenic. Scarlet macaws and white face monkeys, along with a wealth of other wildlife, can often be spotted along this beautiful route.