Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. Costa Rica law
Cannabis laws in Puerto Viejo follow Costa Rica’s national law. City pages reflect the same jurisdiction-wide cannabis framework; local ordinances typically do not override it.
Recreational cannabis is illegal. Medical cannabis is available with prescription, and industrial hemp is regulated separately. Some hemp-derived products may be sold under separate rules, but that does not mean marijuana is legal, and legality can depend on product content and labeling. Personal possession of small amounts typically faces administrative measures rather than criminal prosecution, though risk remains.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal
- Medical: Available with prescription
- Possession: Small amounts often not criminally prosecuted
- Buying/Selling: Illegal
- Tourists: Face same legal risks as residents
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products. Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Legislative Background
While recreational cannabis remains illegal, Costa Rica has a longstanding practice of treating small personal possession amounts as non-criminal (often resulting in administrative measures rather than prosecution). Medical cannabis and hemp-derived products were regulated in 2022, permitting prescription access and low-THC industrial production.
Law Enforcement
Police in Puerto Viejo seemed so passive to me that I thought somebody could smoke in front of the station without a reaction. I wouldn’t try to bribe an officer.
Where to Buy Marijuana
I met beach vendors and people from the Rasta scene around Johnny’s Place and Playa Negra in Puerto Viejo.
Marijuana Prices
In 2006, five or six joints cost about ₡2,000, or US$4 at the time. Five hundred colones was roughly a dollar.
Types of Marijuana
Creeper weed. Most of what I saw had plenty of stems or seeds.