The Caribbean coast has two distinct regions. Its southern portion, which is moderately populated, displays Jamaican and African in­fluences blending with Costa Rican culture. The northern half of the coast is almost uninhabited, visited mostly by fishing fanatics and ecology students. (Incidentally, Costa Ricans often refer to this coast as the "Atlantic" rather than the "Caribbean.")

The northern inland lagoons and waterways are famous for world-class fishing of all kinds. Record size tarpon and snook are routinely hooked in these scenic jungle rivers and inlets. Best snook angling is usually from the shore, around river mouths, with 20- to 30-pounders not uncommon. Fishermen also bring in jacks, mackerel, barracuda, snapper and other species when fish­ing the Caribbean coast. While waiting for exciting action, you are treated to sights of monkeys frolicking in the trees, parrots, toucans, and sometimes an alligator or even a crocodile lurking along the shoreline. Tortuguero is known as an important nesting place of the endangered green sea turtle.
No roads enter this northern region; the only way to get there is by airplane or motor launch. My belief is that it is far too isolated and the climate is too humid for much development other than ecotourism projects. Property, however, is exceptionally cheap.

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