Playas del Coco: Nightlife and Bars

The night began at La Vida Loca, where any Coco pub crawl should definitely begin and end. A spacious and eclectically decorated bar on the beach, it opens at 6 PM -- and the fun lasts until everyone either walks out or passes out.

Pool, darts, ping pong and good old fashioned two-fisted drinking top the list of things to do at La Vida Loca, which features the finest collection of blues CDs in Central America.

Owner "Jimbo" Jensen dreams up "theme nights" and drink specials such as "Cuelo del Diablo" that keep the clientele coming back for more. They hosted a big Halloween Party this year, and Jimbo is planning even more insanity for high season.

Next door, Gaby’s (also called Roger's) has a "Hawaii in the 50s feel," with booths lining one wall. The guys will like this place, though couples and single women may prefer to stay at La Vida Loca or head over to Bohio Bar beside the park near the main entrance to the beach.

The local daytime meeting place for gringos and Karaoke fans, Bohio dishes up good bocas, especially the ceviche, roasted chicken and other fare. Good place to get warmed up before some serious drinking.

Lots of other small to medium-sized bars and clubs line the "Strip," a road that runs through town to the beach. The Lizard Lounge offers outside seating and lots of action in the late hours. The Cave features a shadowy interior with a giant spider on the ceiling, and loud, loud music.

Tequila Bar, Papagayo Bar, Bong’s, Bananas, El Roble, Hotel Coco Palms (the daytime drinking spot) -- from the high life to the low life, there is a bar for every taste, or lack thereof!

Happy Hour Guidecosta rica nightlife playas del cocoBohio had the liveliest Happy Hour crowd when I was there, since many local gringos arrive promptly at 4 PM and drink 2 for 1 rum drinks until 7 (no 2 for 1 beers, though).

Good place to take in the view of the beach while knocking down a few drinks. Lizard Lounge has 2 for 1 drinks and beer. And Happy Hour lasts till midnight!

The Best Western Cocoverde bar serves 2 x 1 rum, vodka and guaro drinks However, this is the only bar I have seen in the country that charges tax on Happy Hour drinks. With 2 TVs, it’s a good place to watch sports.