Marina Pez Vela in Quepos: Costa Rica’s Premier Marina & Lifestyle Destination
- Aurélise Leroux
- Sep 23
- 8 min read
When people think of Quepos, Costa Rica, two things often come to mind: world-class sportfishing and its proximity to Manuel Antonio National Park. At the heart of this coastal town lies Marina Pez Vela, a state-of-the-art marina and lifestyle hub that has transformed Quepos into a world-class destination for travelers, anglers, and ocean lovers alike.
Whether you’re planning a fishing adventure, looking for fine dining with ocean views, or simply want to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the Pacific Coast, Marina Pez Vela in Quepos is the perfect place to start.
What is Marina Pez Vela?
Marina Pez Vela is one of the largest and most modern marinas in Central America. Built along the stunning Pacific coastline of Quepos, the marina offers docking space for private yachts, luxury sailboats, and sportfishing charters. But it’s not just a marina—it’s also a social, cultural, and recreational hub where both locals and international visitors gather.
With a mix of restaurants, shops, fishing tournaments, and family-friendly events, Marina Pez Vela has become one of the top attractions in Quepos.
Sportfishing at Marina Pez Vela
Quepos has long been known as the sportfishing capital of Costa Rica, and Marina Pez Vela takes this reputation to the next level.
Anglers from around the world come here in search of:
Sailfish (Quepos is one of the best places in the world to catch them)
Blue, Black, and Striped Marlin
Mahi-Mahi (Dorado)
Yellowfin Tuna
The marina is home to top-notch fishing charters and guides, many of whom participate in international fishing tournaments hosted at Marina Pez Vela. These events attract world-class anglers and bring an exciting, festive atmosphere to the town.
Restaurants at Marina Pez Vela
Food lovers will find different restaurant options at Marina Pez Vela. With a mix of international cuisine and local flavors, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy a meal while watching the sunset over the Pacific.
Popular restaurants at the Marina include:
The Butcher Block
Type of Food: Barbecue / Smokehouse & premium meats — Texas-style BBQ + grill fare.
Price Range: approx. $20–$80 per person.
Phone Number: +506 8850 4848
Website: menu.butcherblockmpv.com
Do I Need a Reservation? Yes, recommended, especially for sunset evenings and weekends.
Do They Deliver? Yes with delivery charge
The Butcher Block brings bold, smoky flavors right to the docks of Marina Pez Vela, specializing in premium imported cuts of meat, slow-smoked barbecue, and hearty sides. With its air-conditioned 71-seat indoor space, sleek design, and lively bar lounge, it’s a stylish yet welcoming spot for a post-fishing-trip meal or an evening out in the marina. The mix of elevated BBQ and the marina’s relaxed nautical atmosphere makes it one of the most memorable dining experiences here. If you’re craving smoky ribs, brisket, sausage, or a full sampler platter, The Butcher Block delivers a feast worth savoring.
Our Tips:
Go at sunset and enjoy the vibrant marina views while sipping a cocktail.
The 2- or 3-person sampler is a must-try to taste their brisket, ribs, sausage, and more.
Their bar is one of the best in the marina, with high-end spirits and bartenders skilled in signature and classic cocktails.
Gabriella's Steak Seafood & Pasta
Type of Food: Steakhouse / Seafood / Italian & Pasta fusion
Price Range: $15 to $70 per person
Phone Number: +506 2519-9300.
Website: www.gabriellassteakhouse.com
Do I Need a Reservation? Yes, recommended, especially for sunset evenings and weekends.
Do They Deliver?: Yes — according to some listings, they offer delivery and take-out.
Gabriella’s offers a refined dining experience at Marina Pez Vela, renowned for its impressive seafood platters, perfectly grilled Angus and Wagyu steaks, fresh house-made pastas, and creative starters, including the famous “Wow-Wow Shrimp.” The atmosphere is elegant and upscale, with attentive service and unbeatable views overlooking the marina and the Pacific. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a romantic dinner, or treating yourself after a day on the water, Gabriella’s is one of the crown jewels of Marina Pez Vela's dining options.
Our Tips:
Time your dinner with sunset — the views over the marina and ocean are unforgettable.
Go for their signature surf & turf: lobster, mahi mahi, or tuna paired with a premium steak.
Runaway Grill
Type of food: Seafood, grill & bar
Price range: $10 to $50 per person
Phone number: +506 2774-9095
Website: runawaygrill.com
Do I need a reservation? No, but recommended during high season or sunset hours.
Do they deliver? Yes
Runaway Grill is one of the more relaxed yet lively options in Marina Pez Vela. It offers fresh seafood (often “your catch cooked your way”), burgers, salads, Mexican-style dishes, and a wide variety of appetizers and desserts. Located with excellent marina views, a breezy open layout, and casual but attentive service, it’s great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The bar side is spirited, especially during happy hour, and the setting captures that “marina vibe” — boats, sunset, ocean air.
Our Tips:
Arrive around sunset — the view over the marina is beautiful, and the light makes the whole place glow.
Try something fresh from the ocean: tuna sashimi or catch of the day grilled simply. Also, their burgers and mixed (seafood + grill) plates are good for sharing with friends.
If you're looking for a casual drink and small plates, the bar area is ideal; it’s lively during youth & fishing community happy hours (5-7 PM). Try their Moscow Mule, it's great and only 6$.
Gelateria Amorosi
Type of food: Gelato/gelateria/ice cream and desserts
Price range: $2 to $10 per person
Phone number: +506 2519-9494
Website: gelateria-amorosi.business.site
Do I need a reservation?: No — casual walk-in works fine. It’s more of a “stop by for dessert / treat” place.
Do they deliver?: No
Gelateria Amorosi is the perfect spot in Marina Pez Vela for a sweet treat. Inspired by Italian gelato tradition, they offer ~24 flavors, plus Illy coffee, cappuccinos, and a small selection of desserts. The ambiance is cozy and modern, inside with some air conditioning, but also pleasant outdoor seating so you can enjoy views of the yachts and marina. It’s ideal for cooling off after a day on the water or for finishing off dinner with something sweet.
Our Tips:
Go just after dinner to catch the cooler air and enjoy the lights of the marina together with your gelato.
Try a combo: pick two contrasting flavors (for example, something fruity + something creamy or chocolatey). We love the Pastel de Limon, Snickers, Caramel Capuccino and Tostad Coconut.
Whether you're looking for upscale dining or a casual drink after a day at sea, Marina Pez Vela in Quepos has something for everyone. For more food inspirations, check out our blog article Best restaurants in Quepos, Costa Rica: where to eat?
Shopping & Services
Beyond fishing and dining, Marina Pez Vela also offers boutiques, outdoor gear shops, and convenience stores, making it a practical stop for travelers and yacht owners. You can find everything from marine supplies to beachwear and souvenirs.
The marina also provides essential services for boaters, including refueling, maintenance, and docking for vessels of all sizes.
Events at Marina Pez Vela
One of the things that makes Marina Pez Vela special is its calendar of events.
Throughout the year, the marina hosts:
Fishing Tournaments – Including the Offshore World Championship. Check their website for the upcoming tournament event.
Concerts & Festivals – Bringing live music and cultural performances to Quepos.
Outdoor Movie Nights – A family-friendly tradition where films are projected on a giant inflatable screen by the water.
Holiday Celebrations – Seasonal events like fireworks, parades, and community gatherings.
These events make Marina Pez Vela more than just a marina—it’s a vibrant community space.
Location: Marina Pez Vela in Quepos
The marina is conveniently located just a few minutes from downtown Quepos and about 15–20 minutes from Manuel Antonio National Park. Its central location makes it easy to combine a day at the marina with other popular activities in the region, such as hiking, wildlife watching, and beach visits.
Why Visit Marina Pez Vela?
Here’s why Marina Pez Vela in Quepos should be on your Costa Rica itinerary:
World-Class Sportfishing – Quepos is famous for billfish and deep-sea fishing.
Great Dining & Nightlife – A mix of upscale and casual options by the water.
Family-Friendly Activities – From movie nights to holiday events.
Scenic Views – The marina offers some of the best sunset views in Quepos.
Gateway to Adventure – Perfectly located for fishing, sailing, and exploring Manuel Antonio.
Final Thoughts: Marina Pez Vela in Quepos
Whether you’re an angler chasing the catch of a lifetime, a traveler looking for a lively social scene, or a family searching for fun activities by the water, Marina Pez Vela has something for you.
It’s more than just a place to dock boats—it’s a destination in itself. With its world-class fishing, diverse dining, shopping, and vibrant events, Marina Pez Vela has solidified its place as one of the must-visit attractions in Quepos, Costa Rica.
If you’re planning a trip to Manuel Antonio or the Central Pacific coast, make sure to spend some time at Marina Pez Vela—you won’t regret it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the history of the Pez Vela Marina?
Marina Pez Vela opened in 2008 in Quepos, Costa Rica, as part of a project to modernize the town’s fishing industry and tourism. It quickly became one of the largest and most advanced marinas in Central America, hosting international fishing tournaments and offering luxury services for yachts, charters, and travelers.
What is the name of the Quepos Marina, Costa Rica?
The official name of the marina in Quepos is Marina Pez Vela. It is the main hub for sportfishing charters, sailing, dining, and entertainment on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast.
Where are sailfish best known?
Sailfish are best known in the Central Pacific waters of Costa Rica, especially around Quepos and Marina Pez Vela. The region is considered one of the top destinations in the world for catching Pacific sailfish, with peak seasons offering record numbers.
How much can a sailfish be worth?
Sailfish are not typically sold commercially because they are a prized sportfishing catch, often released after capture. However, in the world of recreational fishing, charter trips targeting sailfish can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 per day, showing their high value in tourism and sport.
What does the sailfish symbolize?
The sailfish symbolizes strength, speed, and freedom. In Costa Rica and other fishing cultures, it represents the thrill of sportfishing and respect for the ocean’s most powerful species.
Why is Quepos famous for fishing?
Quepos is known as the sportfishing capital of Costa Rica because its waters are rich with sailfish, marlin, dorado, tuna, and roosterfish. The presence of Marina Pez Vela, which hosts international tournaments, has solidified its global reputation.
When is the best time to fish in Quepos?
The best time for sportfishing in Quepos is December through April, when sailfish and marlin are most abundant. However, year-round fishing is excellent, with tuna, dorado, and roosterfish available outside the peak season.
How far is Marina Pez Vela from Manuel Antonio?
Marina Pez Vela is located just 15–20 minutes from Manuel Antonio National Park by car, making it easy to combine a day of fishing or dining at the marina with wildlife watching and beaches in the park.
Do I need a license to fish in Costa Rica?
Yes, anyone fishing in Costa Rica’s waters—whether onshore or offshore—needs a valid fishing license issued by INCOPESCA (the Costa Rican Institute of Fisheries and Aquaculture). Licenses are affordable and can be purchased online or at Marina Pez Vela. Check out our blog article for more information: Fishing License in Costa Rica: Regulations, Cost & Best Practices
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