Costa Rica’s beaches, known for their natural beauty, are increasingly being used as a venue for illegal raves, causing great concern among local residents and environmentalists. These “jungle raves,” which take place in Santa Teresa, Manzanillo, Bello Horizonte and Santiago, promise partygoers an intense nature experience, but come at the expense of the environment and local communities. The Blue Zone Chamber of Tourism and Commerce (CATUZCA), which represents areas such as Malpaís, Santa Teresa and Playa Hermosa, reported 22 complaints related to these raves between November 2023 and May 2024.
Local residents are frustrated by the noise pollution these events cause, with music blaring from 11pm until 8 or 9am the next morning. One resident noted that although the rave party was a kilometer away, it was as loud as if it were right next door. After the rave party officially ends, attendees often flock to the beach and continue their celebrations into the early hours, much to the dismay of local residents.
These raves are not small events; some attract up to 600 people, making them huge, unregulated events. Despite their size, these events lack the necessary permits, including health licenses and emergency medical teams, and no safety measures are put in place for participants. This has led to increasing tensions between organizers and local authorities.
Cóbano Mayor Ronny Montero pointed out that the owners of these raves can earn between $6,000 and $7,000 per night, making the business lucrative. However, this financial gain comes at the expense of the community and the environment. Some organizers even offer to pay potential fines in advance to ensure that their events take place without interruption.
Of particular concern is the environmental impact of these raves. The loud music and large crowds disturb local wildlife, pushing animals out of their natural habitat and into populated areas where they are more at risk from pets, traffic and human activities. The lack of proper planning or consultation with wildlife experts makes the situation worse and can lead to long-term damage to the local ecosystem.
Despite the increasing number of complaints, the municipality of Cóbano is struggling to impose fines or take serious action against the organizers. However, in response to the increasing concerns, the municipality is preparing its first judicial complaint to be filed with the Public Prosecutor’s Office in order to curb these illegal activities and protect the municipality and the environment.
The ongoing situation highlights the need for stronger regulations and enforcement measures to prevent such events from continuing to disrupt the peace and harmony of Costa Rica’s beautiful coastal regions. Local populations, as well as official businesses and government entities, are demanding immediate action to resolve this urgent problem.
