Shop Like a Local: The Ultimate Guide to Shopping in Costa Rica

Shopping in Costa Rica

Gift-Giving Traditions

In Costa Rica, giving gifts is a big deal. People exchange presents on Christmas, Father’s Day, birthdays, and especially Mother’s Day, which is a huge celebration. If you’re invited to a dinner party, it’s polite to bring a bottle of wine or some flowers—just avoid lilies, as they’re usually for funerals (Costa Rica).

Must-Have Souvenirs

Costa Rica is a treasure trove of unique and delightful souvenirs. Here are some top picks to bring back home:

Souvenir	Description	Price Range
Coffee	Famous for its rich flavor, Costa Rican coffee is a must-buy.	$10 – $20
Salsa Lizano	A staple in Costa Rican kitchens, this sauce is found in any supermarket.	$2 – $5
Chorreador	A traditional coffee maker with a filter “sock,” wooden stand, and blue tin pitcher.	$20
Wood Painted Items	Handcrafted and painted wooden items, including ox cart figurines.	$15 – $50
Handmade Jewelry	Unique, locally made jewelry pieces.	$10 – $50
Soap and Bath Products	Natural and aromatic bath products.	$5 – $15
Paintings by Local Artists	Vibrant artworks that capture Costa Rican culture.	$20 – $100
Bikinis and Sarongs	Colorful and stylish beachwear.	$15 – $50
Bamboo Clothing	Eco-friendly and comfortable clothing.	$20 – $40

For an even bigger list of unique Costa Rican souvenirs, including Cacique (Costa Rican hard alcohol), Cajetas de Leche (sugar candies made with milk), printed towels, Chonete hats, futbol jerseys, soap, stuffed animals, jewelry, books, magnets, and more, check out MytanFeet.

Plan your shopping trips around Costa Rica’s lively markets and shops. Don’t miss the Mercado Central in San Jose and the Avenida Escazu Mall, where you can find a mix of local crafts and modern retail options. For more tips on shopping in Costa Rica, explore our Costa Rica travel guide.

By understanding the local gift-giving traditions and knowing what souvenirs to hunt for, you can shop like a local and bring home some fantastic memories of your Costa Rican adventure.

Shopping Spots in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a treasure trove of shopping adventures, blending culture, tradition, and modern flair. Here are two must-visit spots that promise unique finds and unforgettable experiences.

Mercado Central in San Jose

When it comes to authentic shopping, Mercado Central in San Jose is a gem. This bustling market is a snapshot of local life, offering everything from clothes and souvenirs to groceries (Travel Triangle).

The market is a maze of stalls, each with its own charm. You’ll find traditional Costa Rican goods, handmade crafts, and fresh produce. The lively vibe and friendly vendors make it a shopping trip to remember.

What You’ll Find	Availability
Clothes	High
Souvenirs	High
Groceries	High
Handicrafts	Medium
Fresh Produce	High

Don’t miss any corner of the market. Each visit can surprise you with new and delightful finds. For more on the best places to visit in Costa Rica, check out our guide on best places to visit in Costa Rica.

Avenida Escazu Mall

For a more upscale experience, Avenida Escazu Mall is the place to be. This chic mall offers trendy stores, upscale restaurants, and fun events, making it perfect for family outings and shopping sprees (Travel Triangle).

Avenida Escazu is packed with high-end retail stores, international brands, and boutique shops. It’s also a great spot to grab a meal, with plenty of fine dining options.

What You’ll Find	Availability
Trendy Stores	High
Upscale Restaurants	High
Events	Medium
Family-Friendly	High
Boutique Shops	High

Spending a day at Avenida Escazu Mall lets you enjoy luxurious shopping while soaking in the beautiful surroundings. For more luxurious stays, consider one of the all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica.

Shopping in Costa Rica is more than just buying stuff; it’s about soaking in the local culture and lifestyle. Whether you’re exploring the lively Mercado Central or indulging at the upscale Avenida Escazu Mall, Costa Rica has something for every shopper. For more travel tips, check out our Costa Rica travel tips.

Unique Shopping Experiences

Exploring Costa Rica’s shopping scene is a must for any traveler. Here are two spots that offer a genuine taste of local culture.

Galeria Namu in San Jose

When I stepped into Galeria Namu in San Jose, I was blown away by the fair-trade treasures from Costa Rica and Central America. This gallery is a haven for indigenous artists, showcasing their stunning artwork, handicrafts, masks, baskets, pottery, and folk art. Not only does this make for a unique shopping trip, but it also lets you bring home a slice of authentic Costa Rican culture.

Product Type	Description
Artwork	Paintings, sculptures, and other creative pieces
Handicrafts	Handmade items like jewelry and textiles
Masks	Traditional masks used in cultural ceremonies
Baskets	Woven baskets in various designs and sizes
Pottery	Beautifully crafted pottery pieces
Folk Art	Unique folk art representing local traditions

For more shopping tips in Costa Rica, check out the best places to visit in Costa Rica.

Central Farmer’s Market Escazu

The Central Farmer’s Market in Escazu gave me an authentic local vibe like no other. This lively market is the go-to spot for fresh produce, seafood, artisanal goods, and local treats like empanadas and tortillas. It’s a fantastic way to dive into the local culture and shop like a true Tico.

Product Type	Description
Fresh Produce	Local fruits and vegetables
Seafood	Freshly caught fish and seafood
Artisanal Goods	Handmade crafts and products
Local Delicacies	Traditional foods such as empanadas and tortillas

Planning your trip? Swing by the best beaches in Costa Rica after your market adventure.

For more travel tips, check out our Costa Rica travel guide.