Drinking Age in Costa Rica (2026): The Ultimate Legal & Cultural Guide for Tourists and Expats
By AG Legal · Updated 2026
• Legal drinking age: 18 years old.
• Public drinking is legally prohibited under Law 9047, except during authorized municipal events (fairs, festivals, civic celebrations).
• In tourist areas, enforcement can be more tolerant if there is no disorderly conduct.
• Bars and liquor stores must verify age and follow municipal operating hours.
• DUI laws are strict and aggressively enforced nationwide.
It’s golden hour in Tamarindo. The Pacific breeze, the relaxed atmosphere, and the sound of music spilling from open-air restaurants welcome visitors from all over the world. A group of travelers stops before ordering drinks, asking a question nearly every foreigner wonders:
“What’s the actual legal drinking age in Costa Rica—and can we drink on the beach?”
Whether you’re visiting, studying abroad, or planning long-term relocation, understanding Costa Rica’s alcohol laws helps ensure a safe, enjoyable, and legally compliant experience. This guide provides the most complete information for 2026, combining legal precision, cultural context and practical insights for travelers.
Table of Contents
- 1. Legal drinking age in Costa Rica
- 2. International comparison
- 3. ID requirements
- 4. Public drinking laws (important!)
- 5. Bars & nightlife regulations
- 6. Liquor stores & supermarket rules
- 7. DUI laws
- 8. Alcohol during holidays & elections
- 9. Cultural context
- 10. Travel safety tips
- 11. Frequently asked questions
1. Legal Drinking Age in Costa Rica
The legal drinking age in Costa Rica is 18. This applies to:
- purchasing alcohol
- consuming alcohol in legal locations
- entering bars, casinos and nightclubs
Businesses that serve minors risk heavy fines, closure, and loss of alcohol permits.
2. International Comparison
Here’s how Costa Rica compares to other popular tourist origins:
| Country | Drinking Age | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Costa Rica | 18 | Public drinking banned by law (with specific exceptions) |
| United States | 21 | Strict enforcement |
| Canada | 18–19 | Depends on province |
| UK / EU | 18 | Similar to CR |
3. ID Requirements
Establishments must request identification from anyone who appears under 25.
Accepted IDs:
- Passport
- Foreign driver’s license
- Residency DIMEX card
4. Public Drinking Laws in Costa Rica (Legal Reality)
Costa Rica’s alcohol regulations are defined by the Law for the Regulation and Commercialization of Alcoholic Beverages (Law N° 9047).
According to Article 9, subsection f, the law clearly states:
This means:
- You cannot legally drink alcohol in streets, sidewalks, beaches, parks, or other public places.
- Police are empowered to confiscate alcohol or issue warnings if the law is violated.
- Municipalities may authorize exceptions for festivals and public events.
✔ Practical Reality for Tourists
Although the law prohibits public consumption, enforcement in **tourist destinations** (Tamarindo, Jacó, Puerto Viejo, Manuel Antonio, Santa Teresa) can be more flexible.
Authorities typically tolerate public drinking as long as:
- there is no disorderly conduct
- no excessive noise or disturbance
- no dangerous behavior
- no minors are involved
But important: Tolerance ≠ permission.
Tourists should be aware that enforcement is always at police discretion.
5. Bars & Nightlife Regulations
Bars and clubs must:
- verify age (18+)
- follow licensed operating hours
- avoid serving intoxicated individuals
- comply with municipal noise laws
6. Alcohol Sales in Stores
Supermarkets, convenience stores and liquor shops may sell alcohol if licensed.
Typical hours: 8:00 a.m. and 11:59 p.m.
7. DUI Laws
Costa Rica’s DUI laws are strictly enforced.
Blood Alcohol Levels (BAL):
| BAL | Penalty |
|---|---|
| 0.20–0.75 g/L | High fine + points |
| ≥ 0.75 g/L | License suspension, vehicle impoundment |
8. Alcohol Sales During Holidays & Elections
The former national “dry laws” for Holy Week and elections were removed. Municipalities may still impose localized restrictions.
9. Cultural Context
Costa Ricans enjoy alcohol socially and moderately. Excessive public intoxication is frowned upon and may attract police intervention, especially in family-oriented towns.
10. Safety Tips
- Use authorized taxis or ride apps at night
- Keep your drink in sight
- Respect local communities and noise rules
- Do not drink in public unless you’re in a permitted event area
11. Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drink on the beach in Costa Rica?
No, not legally. Public drinking is prohibited under Law 9047 unless the area is part of a municipally authorized event. In tourist zones, enforcement may be tolerant but it is never a legal right.
What is the legal drinking age?
18 years old.
Can police confiscate alcohol in public?
Yes. They are authorized to do so under Law 9047.
Is public intoxication illegal?
Yes if it causes disorder or risk. Police may intervene.
Can tourists buy alcohol at 18?
Yes. The law applies equally to locals and foreigners.
Is alcohol allowed during public festivals?
Only within officially designated areas authorized by the municipality.
What ID should tourists carry?
A passport is the safest and most universally accepted form.
Do bars check ID?
Yes, especially in tourist areas.
What time can you buy alcohol?
Generally between 8:00 a.m. and 11:59 p.m.
Is drunk driving strictly punished?
Yes. Costa Rica has very strict DUI laws and frequent checkpoints.