About Ojochal
Located in the heart of South Pacific Costa Rica, this seductive destination is currently witnessing an exciting transformation that defies global trends. Whether you're dreaming of a tropical paradise or seeking a savvy investment, Ojochal's market is brimming with opportunities that promise more than just a property purchase – they offer a gateway to a life of scenic beauty and serenity.
Ojochal is the main southern-most town in the South Pacific region called Costa Ballena, which also includes Dominical, Uvita, and many sub-communities. It is about 1 hour south of Quepos and 3.5 hours drive from the capital, San Jose. Ojochal is one of the oldest villages in this region, settled by Costa Ricans from around the 1950s. Expats began arriving here around the 1980s and hotels and businesses slowly started to sprout, creating a welcoming atmosphere for tourists to visit and also buy property. Situated in the river valleys and foothills of the Talamancas, Ojochal is right by the beautiful wild beaches that this region of Costa Rica is best known for. However, despite the incredible natural attractions and wilderness activities prevalent in this region, this is not your traditional tourism area and the primary focus is less on corporate expansion and more driven by lovers of nature and peaceful tranquility. Read on to learn more about what the different parts of Ojochal have on offer for those seeking a better quality of life.
Nestled along Costa Rica's southern Pacific coast, Ojochal presents a picturesque blend of natural beauty and vibrant community life. The village is a haven for food enthusiasts, boasting a diverse array of restaurants that cater to every palate. From traditional Costa Rican cuisine served in local sodas to upscale dining experiences highlighting international flavors, Ojochal's culinary scene is a true delight. Its fusion of gastronomic influences, including French, Italian, and Thai, offers a unique culinary journey for visitors and residents alike. Moreover, the village hosts a variety of services including; pharmacies, spa, dentist, doctor, deli featuring internationally imported delights, bakeries, grocery stores, barber, and a farmers’ market held on Wednesday mornings.
Beyond its delectable dining and shopping options, Ojochal embraces an active lifestyle with excellent fitness amenities. The community prides itself on its well-equipped gym facilities, catering to both residents and travelers looking to stay fit and active during their stay. Additionally, sports enthusiasts will find the village to be a haven for pickleball, a rapidly growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. The availability of courts and clubs dedicated to this game provides a welcoming environment for players of all skill levels, fostering a sense of community among enthusiasts.
Ojochal's allure extends beyond its culinary and recreational offerings. The village is situated near stunning beaches and surrounded by lush landscapes, making it an ideal location for families seeking quality education and a serene environment. The area hosts reputable schools that prioritize holistic development and offer diverse educational experiences against the backdrop of Costa Rica's natural beauty. Access to nearby beaches such as Playa Tortuga and Ventanas Beach adds a layer of tranquility and adventure, inviting residents and visitors to explore the wonders of the Pacific coastline. With its blend of gastronomy, recreational activities, educational opportunities, and natural beauty, Ojochal stands as a gem along Costa Rica's coastline, captivating the hearts of those seeking a harmonious balance between modern comforts and nature's splendor.
Beaches: Playa Piñuelas, Playa Ventanas, Playa Tortuga, Playa Garza
Waterfalls: Cascada de Ojochal, Cascada El Pavon
Communities: Piñuelas, Cinco Ventanas, Punta Mala, Coronado, Tres Rios, Chontales, San Buenas
Essential services: Pharmacies, doctor, dentist, public & private schools, ATM, hardware stores, gas station
Life in Costa Rica is all about the environment and Ojochal is a village that’s all about the environment. This is a Blue Flag community, where residents band together to organize environmental services like recycling, clearing garbage and debris from waterways, fundraisers for local activities, a free library, and a lot more. People who visit Ojochal can feel the pull of this tight community where people try to get to know each other and smile and wave as they pass.
Most developments in Ojochal feature large lots and beautiful floral gardens connected by slow, gravel roads. The terrain is a mix of forest and pasture land, housing an integrated community of Ticos and expats living together. The international community has been around since the early 1990s, not many years after the first Ticos populated this region. Ojochal has consequently developed symbiotically, with expats and locals both benefitting from this giving land. This may be one of the most successful rural Tico communities in the country, but don’t quote me on that. You’ll have to just come and see the upgrades for yourself. Our strong sense of community spirit can be seen in the big turnouts for local events like the bi-annual garage sale, Christmas parade, or even local team soccer matches, which are hosted for the benefit of all in the community.
There have long been a few locally-owned grocery/all-purpose stores and hardware stores in Ojochal. But in the last year, a few new boutique stores have opened with a surprising variety of international goods, from exotic or organic foods to home decor. Two commercial plazas (Tangara and Ventanas) cater to higher-end visitors and locals, with a salon and spa, deli and clothing boutique.
Ojochal is also still widely known as the foodie capital of Costa Rica. The capital San Jose is trying to claim this title, but they have a long way to go to compete with our established favorites and exciting new locales. French fusion, elevated local, and fresh organic ingredients are matched with phenomenal al fresco dining environments. Surrounded by greenery, fairy lights and fresh air, Ojochal offers dining experiences that are filled with elegance and romance. There are several local pubs, too, with a variety of live entertainment on different nights.
